"A few weeks ago, I began to hear some rumblings of fall. Being the girl that doesn’t decorate for Halloween early—or at all, for that matter—my first thought was “you couldn’t pry my Havaiana flip-flops out of my hands if you tried.” But being who I am and doing what I do, I’ve been thrust into a world of fall fashion that has me prematurely perusing the sites and very quickly eating my words after seeing an abundance of can’t-miss fall footwear for the upcoming season.
While it’s true that I’ve reveled in my fair share of strappy summer sandals this season, I have to be honest: Once I’m properly warmed up to the idea of cooler temps, my level of excitement for fall shoes is unparalleled. (Maybe the only feeling in comparison is the relief I feel after slipping into a worn-in leather boot and not having to worry about my exposed toes in the streets of New York for the next several months). But as I unpack last year’s closed-toe rotation, I’m simultaneously assessing the gaps and determining my wishlist for fall.
As a stylist, I frequently audit my wardrobe, but after pulling out my assembly of fall gear from storage, it’s clear that I’ve let a few things slide over the years. Though I’ve made several commendable shoe choices in the past, I’ll admit I’ve also made some mistakes along the way. Stylist or not, everyone is destined for a handful of miscalculated wardrobe decisions in their lifetime.
If you find yourself in a similar position of wanting to upgrade some regrettable footwear purchases of your own, learn from my mistakes and consider the following list of do’s and don’ts before dipping your toe (literally) into this fall’s footwear. It might not be the end-all solution to your style woes, but it is one step (I’m on a roll) toward getting things right this season.
Skip: Chunky Trainers Buy: Slim Sneakers
If you’re the kind of girl that uses Google Slides to pre-plan outfits for a trip (just me?), then I’m sure you’ve been privy to the copious amounts of slim, suede sneakers seen on the streets of Copenhagen for this month’s spring 2025 showcase. It’s not that we’re necessarily over the dad sneaker, it’s just that it’s not entirely working with the oversized and layered clothing trends of late. In following the rule of opposition, it’s better to round out a baggy look with a shoe that’s a bit leaner.
Skip: Classic Ballet Flats Buy: Mary Janes
While the ballet flat is still this year’s definitive footwear trend, it may be time to move on to its strappy sister: the Mary Jane. This schoolgirl staple has transcended its juvenile past by staking its claim on runways and solidifying its spot as fall footwear’s top contender. It-girls are wearing them with ankle socks and mini skirts, but not to fret—they look equally stylish with a simple tee and a classic pair of jeans.
Skip: Ankle Boots Buy: Knee-High Boots
Let me hold your hand while I say this: It’s time to give your beloved ankle boots a rest. Not to stir the pot entirely, if you happen to be hanging on to an older pair that you still love, by all means, wear them. But need I remind you of the reason we’re gathered here today? To explore today’s trends, and avoid any future materialistic turmoil. Put simply, unless it’s a square-toed, kitten-heeled version, you likely won’t be seeing fashion girls in ankle boots this fall. Knee-high boots, which are in the running for this season’s boot of choice, are quickly amassing a crowd of trend-setters, taking street-style by storm for fall 2024.
Skip : Slip-On Mules Buy: Statement-Making Loafers
Let’s be honest, there hasn’t been a season where loafers weren’t in style, but of course, there have been times when the classic slip-on has dipped in popularity. There was a time when a pointed, flat mule would have been my shoe of choice; however, designers have ditched the demure mules for more attention-grabbing loafers with loud embellishments and lofty platforms.
Not: Block Heels Buy: Kitten Heels
I don’t make the rules, I just report on them. Although, if I did make the rules, I’d probably mandate that every closet be well-equipped with a kitten heel. This season’s catwalks were inundated with triangular-shaped, barely-there heel heights that served as the modern choice of heels. From boots to mules and every shoe silhouette in between, designers have found the perfect way to reintroduce the micro heel for fall.
Skip: Lace-Up Boots Buy: Moto Boots
For those of us who fell prey to the lace-up leather boots of the last decade, you may find solace by tapping into the moto trend this fall. These laceless, studded boots have already garnered the attention of many as the start of the new season approaches. Though, these aren’t exactly being worn in a “I own a motorcycle” type of way; trend-goers are, quite literally, taking the edge off by pairing moto boots with frilly dresses and slip skirts.
Skip: Platform Slippers Buy: Retro Clogs
For those of you who managed to score a pair of the coveted Ugg slippers last year, I’m sorry to say that they’ve now been replaced with a return to ’70s-style clogs. While designers debuted a range of heeled versions for fall 2024, contemporary brands are releasing a myriad of flat-style options to cater to a wider mass of consumers. Be it buckled, studded, or faux fur-trimmed, the line-up includes an assortment of personality-popping embellishments that’ll have you slipping into fall style in no time.
Tinsley Crisp, Fashion & Beauty Staff Writer
Tinsley Crisp is a Fashion & Beauty Staff Writer at The Everygirl and specializes in reporting on the season’s latest trends and hottest products. As a New York City-based stylist, she’s committed to injecting joy into the art of getting dressed and delivering attainable yet aspirational content to our readers.