Emily: Aritzia coat | Jeans, similar | Loafers | Susie: Scarf coat | Frame leather pants | Brown boots, similar
The Most Talked-About Shoe Trends for Fall 2026
Well it’s here …. fall has suddenly arrived! And as much as I didn’t want summer to end, I’m now kind of ready for it. Every year around this time, when sandal season comes to a halt, it’s a little tricky trying to figure out what shoes will work with all our jean outfits. It’s not quite boot season, but sandals no longer feel right. That’s why we need “in-between” shoes that transition easily from summer to fall. Think sneakers, mules, loafers, ballet flats and even kitten heels. These are the shoes that work now and then again later.
Today’s post is about the shoe trends everyone will be talking about this fall – some new styles emerging, along with a few classics carrying over from last year. Keep reading to see every transitional shoe you need for your fall outfits. I’m also sharing a little street style inspo, brand new outfits, and the exact shoes worth considering.
P.S. I started a Substack with my daughter Emily called Susie & Em Unfiltered. We’re covering wishlist-worthy finds, hotel recs, trends worth knowing about, and what it’s really like to work and travel together. Think different decades, same taste, zero filter. Check out our recent post “How We Fly Business Class to Europe Every Time” and subscribe here if you like it!
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01. Fall shoe trends: Everything brown
Veronica Beard blazer | Zip in grey dickey | Brown shell | Jeans | Margaux flats | Satin clutch | Zoë Chicco x Susie Wright earrings
This year, brown shoes and bags have surprised me with how versatile they are. Softer than black, brown works with so much of what’s already in our closets – denim of course, but also ecru, black, grey and camel. Whether you go for flats like the ones above, heels (I love these Prada slingbacks), or boots (look at these), I bet you’ll be surprised how easy they are to style. Don’t forget to pick up a bag and an accessory like a belt or scarf. That’s the trick to pulling outfits together!
02. Clogs … but not what you’re thinking
Rails sweater | White tee | AGOLDE jeans | Bottega pouch | Belt | Earrings | Birkenstocks
Last week in NYC, on one little street corner in Soho, I counted eight pairs of suede clogs – like these. They looked cool and comfortable and I can’t think of a more practical shoe to start wearing once the weather changes. Suede mules I have my eye on: Birkenstock Boston, Quince affordable ones, and these designer inspired ones.
03. Animal prints
Quilted jacket | Dickey | Striped shirt | Jeans | Clutch | Slingbacks | Earrings
This season, every kind of animal print is trending! If you wear neutrals – black, grey, camel, then just one little hint of snake or leopard print will take your outfit over the top. Any style works from ballet flats to loafers, sneakers and boots. See below for a little inspo!
04. Low-profile sneakers
Scarf sweater |Jeans | Slim sneakers | YSL tote | Watch
When the weather changes, sneakers become my go-to running errands around town. And this season, I’m setting aside chunky sneakers, and switching them for slim, cool low-profile sneakers. Wear them with skirts and dresses or jeans – super practical and also kind of stylish
05. Sock boots
Blazer | Tank | Ecru jeans | Studded belt | Khaite boots | Zebra bag
Slim boots or sock boots are so flattering on the foot, and they work perfectly with any style of jean. I prefer them to chunkier boots because they give a nice slim look which loos a little more polished. Especially when we start layering with chunky sweaters and big coats.
06. Ruched loafers
Oak & Fort trench | Vince cardigan | AGOLDE jeans | YSL bag | Ruched loafers
The YSL Le Loafer is the “it” style to consider this season! It’s soft and relaxed and gives a “lived-in” look that’s easy to wear. Thankfully this season there are affordable versions, since everyone is copying the look!
07. Kitten heels
Vince leather jacket | Tan sweater | Skirt | Slingbacks | Earrings | Clutch
Now that ankle jeans are making a comeback, having a super stylish kitten heels or a slingback is key to making outfits that feel sophisticated and chic. I have my eye on several – see below.
Thank you for reading! xx
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