We’re still at the height of pedicure-baring season, but fall footwear is one of those categories we can’t wait to jump on. Yes, our adoration for summer sandals is strong—we’ve waxed poetic about nearly every style from pool slides to toe-ring silhouettes—but there’s something about a fresh wave of boots, loafers and pumps that invigorates our shoe collections like no other.
This year, fall is ushering in a slew of fresh trends that, while decidedly autumn, include a few styles that can totally be worn now. Hint: Animal prints, square toes and sneakers fall into this camp. Once the weather cools, your closed-toe collection is sure to fill up with a range of boots from unexpectedly cheerful colors to silhouettes both ladylike and edgy.
To give you a glimpse of things to come, we rounded up 11 key styles to add to your shopping carts now. While some are more directional than others, we guarantee you’ll spot each of these trends on the feet of every fashion-forward woman in your group (and you should lead the way). Consider this your ultimate guide.
Step Into Fall
Square Toes
From flats to boots, the simplest update to your shoe collection is with a square toe (we already know you’re dabbling in sandal form). Whether it's with wider renditions or slimmer cuts just squared at the tip, this '90-inspired look feels entirely fresh.
Cowboy Boots
All things Western are continuing for fall, and that includes the cowboy boot. From styles fit for the ranch to sleeker city versions, this look is all about juxtaposition—wear them unexpectedly with tailored separates and feminine dresses.
Futuristic Sneakers
Thanks to designers like Louis Vuitton, Stella McCartney and Balenciaga, chunky sneakers are sticking around—and with a futuristic edge that ranges from neon details to inventive design accents. Wear yours now with breezy dresses and cutoff shorts. Come fall, swap for tailored trousers with a slight slouch.
Pastel Boots
White boots are still very much a thing in the new season, but the newest color trend is a candy-coated rainbow of shades that includes mint green and lilac. We saw these hues across myriad designer runways, so you know they're legit.
Animal Print
Show your animal instinct this fall via the season's biggest trend. Whether you go for leopard, zebra stripes or snakeskin, you can’t go wrong with an animal-print shoe.
Lace-Up Boots
In line with themes of the Old West for fall, sleek lace-up boots are a ladylike trend for feminine tastes. You can go for a kitten heel or sky-high stiletto and style with everything from full-sweeping skirts to trim trousers.
High-Cut Pumps
We’ve seen high-cut pumps pop up in collections over the past couple of seasons but, for fall, the look is going full throttle. It's a simple way to modernize your workwear.
Croc Effect
Croc-effect accessories hit big for fall, from handbags to footwear. A little '70s in feel, this textured trend reads super polished, making any outfit look incredibly expensive whether you choose a sleek slingback or over-the-knee boot.
Kitten-Heel Boots
Long live the kitten heel! Designers can’t keep away from the comfortable silhouette and we can see why. It’s the ultimate wear-anywhere style and has some serious timeless appeal.
Patent
Patent leather is a staple in fall. The latest glossed look touches everything from pointed-toe flats to hefty boots. Double up on trends and go high shine in a pastel shade or squared-off silhouette.
Hiking Boots
Move over combat boots, it’s all about the hiking variety in the new season. Like cowboy styles, the rugged shoe is coolest in juxtaposition with feminine dresses and sleek silhouettes. You know the whole "opposites attract" thing? Yep, that’s the key.
