Sharp Pointed Toe

Elongated toe boxes have silently dominated this year’s trend cycles, and this “weird girl” essential takes a haute turn when combined with a kitten heel. The sharpness is twofold—featuring a teeny heel and a razor-thin pointed toe—all in a sleek design line that feels truly fresh. Try combining this silhouette with a textural trend, like snakeskin or suede.

Subtle Slouchiness

On the other hand, brand strategist and stylist Jessie Frances describes fall’s overarching footwear trends as a fashion “free for all”: Each silhouette has a range of en vogue style designs. That includes slouchy boots, which already hold a beloved place as an early aughts precursor to today’s classic knee-high and riding boots. Most of today’s styles lean into either subtlety or drama, be it a slight slouch at the ankle or voluminous silhouettes.

Snakeskin Sleekness

While Frances already regards animal print as neutral, snakeskin textures can work to make an outfit pop. Switch up this tried-and-true print with a hint of fiery orange—vibrant snakeskin is especially trend-forward this fall—or a subdued palette of neutrals.

Shades of Suede

Fall’s best styles are highly textural, and that includes suede accessories. While this famously finicky fabric isn’t known for its practicality, it does pack a boho punch as footwear. For better longevity through the winter months, invest in a high-quality protective spray.

Velvety Chocolate Brown

Nature tones for fall? Groundbreaking. While rich shades of cocoa and hazelnut make an appearance every autumn, DSW senior fashion and trends director Regina Popp recommends diving further into full-bodied chocolates with monochromatic footwear. “Brown boots are a must-have this fall, whether it’s rich chocolate brown suede or cool rub-off leather,” she tells Byrdie.

Among our favorites? A gold-accented pair of Larroudé booties, and a sartorially delicious style from the independent (and internet-loved) designer Miista. 

Maximalist Moto

Indie sleaze has reentered the chat. As soft, flowy fabrics dictated our end-of-summer wardrobes—guided by Chloé, under creative director Chemena Kamali’s vision—we’ll need accessories that ramp up the contrast heading into fall. Tough, chunky-heeled boots (adorned with a collection of industrial accents) add some edge to otherwise romantic ensembles. 

“In the ’70s, you had an era of two extremes: the rebellious and romantic,” Frances tells Byrdie. “Now, we’re seeing a fusion, as people are feeling that you don’t have to choose.”

Practical Pairings

Many of the season’s best activities (think pumpkin patch excursions and winery weekend trips) call for hardier footwear. Whether you select a classic Hunter boot or a short Chelsea style, these mud-proof designs are ready for whatever the season brings. Plus, Popp confirms that tall boots in any style remain a timeless yet sharply on-trend addition to any shoe rack.

Wild, Wild, Wild West

The Cowboy Carter tour cemented the Western trend for the summer, but Frances assures us these aesthetics are still alive and well—and now, they’re more wearable than ever. From ankle-length cowboy boots to maximalist butterfly details, this rough-and-tumble aesthetic is taking a showgirl approach this season.

Posh Platforms

The bohemian ease of the ’70s dominated this summer, and you can transition that same ethereal vibe into autumn. First up on the shopping list? Well-worn platform boots. Personally, we’re taking a cue from jazz extraordinaire Laufey by choosing a subtle platform with a retro square toe.