If you’re like me and the thought of summer winding down and cooler temperatures on deck leaves you with a tinge of sadness, the silver lining each year is always fall fashion. By September, I’m filling my online cart with chunky knits, tailored jackets, and plush accessories inspired by looks I saw on the runway months before. But the item I look forward to purchasing and adding to my closet season after season is the single item that can make or break an outfit: shoes.
Although we’ve been living in our slippers and fuzzy socks over the past few months of quarantine, brands have managed to debut some amazing styles that hit all of the season's hottest trends. From show-stopping over-the-knee boots to menswear-inspired flats, there’s a shoe (and price point!) this season that's right for you. BRB while I add all the below to my cart.
Photos: Prada | Shutterstock, Proenza Schouler | Shutterstock, Ulla Johnson | Shutterstock
Stomp Around
This season, footwear brands updated the classic Chelsea Boot by adding layered heels and chunky soles for a rugged and masculine feel. Prada came out with a popular leather lug-sole version that was all the rage during Fashion Week and seen on every cool girl and celebrity in town. Lucky for you, you don't need to splurge on the designer pair to partake in this trend because there are plenty of affordable versions. I love this pair from Free People because the cognac color looks so luxe and edges up a simple outfit. Style with skirts and feminine maxi dresses for an instant cool factor.
Shootie to Me Straight
If you don't have a pair of shooties (a shoe and boot combo) in your closet, then listen up because I've got the perfect pair for you. The salt + umber Basque Bootie is made of super-soft 100% leather, available in bone or black and pair well with everything from your favorite pair of jeans to a flirty, floral boho dress. Bonus points for this brand being sustainably made and founded by a female entrepreneur in Bergen County, New Jersey.
And All That Jazz
This season, it's all about the embellishments. Rhinestones, crystals and chain detailing popped up all across the runway for Fall 2020. But don't be intimidated because all this bling isn't just for a night out on the town. I would pair a jazzy, rhinestone-encrusted shoe with my favorite pair of tapered denim and a basic white tee for a chic and effortless look.
The Taller, the Better
Over-the-knee boots always seem to pop up on the fall/winter runways, and this season is no different. We saw a ton of variations of this classic style, from slouchy to ultra-tight, flat to heeled, and super tall (we're talking mid-thigh!) to barely skimming the knee, in a slew of rich textures and colors. OTK boots are timeless and so versatile, making them a great investment purchase for the fall.