The Fall 2021 Shoe Trends to Slide Into Now
Good news: Practical yet fabulous cold-weather footwear never goes out of style.
If one fashion category served as an indicator of the current mood about getting dressed, it would be footwear. Like many things during this year at home, shoes were scrutinized and, eventually, edited out our lives. Pairs that were borderline uncomfortable or unworn for months were banished to the closet or donated in favor of house shoes and easy-to-slip-on flats for the times we left the house. While many of us have embraced a freeing life empty of high heels with no turning back, it doesn’t mean they are going away for good. Designers recognized this for their fall collections, but cleverly offered consumers very strong go-to options we’ve seen before—like lower-heel slouchy boots, platformed boots, and lug-soled oxfords for those who long for a little height. They also took into our at-home dressing into consideration with fuzzy slipper styles that have an indoor/outdoor appeal. So, whether you need a refresh of one of these reliable trends or want to double down on flats in lieu of stilettos, swipe through to see how we’ll be stepping into fall.
Slouchy Boots
While this style has been around the block a few times, we love it as a textured staple in a monochromatic look. Plus, it's so easy to wear with leggings (a lockdown staple we’ve yet to be able to part with). Arbiters of chic style, Gabriella Hearst (left) and Khaite (right), both agreed that slouchy is the way to go for tall boots this season.
Punky Oxfords
A nod to '80s British counterculture, this heavy-soled lace-up is making the rounds again once more for this upcoming fall. Seen in earth tones like this olive green at Philip Lim (left) and with serious platform height at Simone Rocha (right), designers pulled out some interesting twists on this edgy staple. Trade in your trusty loafers for this heavier-soled silhouette to elevate a slouchy suit or floral print day dress.
Fancy Fuzzy Slippers
This is a trend to tread lightly (and quite comfortably) with, as the designers at both Coach (left) and Proenza Schouler (right) intended. The options for slippers are more widely available than ever, but be discerning about your choice. When looking for a furry slipper that is also appropriate for the outside world, make sure the soles are substantial. Wood or leather soles rather than something soft-soled means they are intended to stand up against pavement. Another tip to look like you’re not just wearing your indoor shoes outdoors: Pair them with a polished dress or peeking out underneath an oversized suit for an unexpected pop of texture.
Power Platforms
Platforms made the rounds on runways this past Spring as more stable and comfortable alternatives to stilettos. Unlike those in natural materials like wood and straw espadrille styles, the platform returns for Fall in heavy, dark colored leather boots, shown at Prada (left) and Molly Goddard (right). Opt in for these if you’re looking for a strong and impactful way to add some height under a dress or with extra-long cuffed jeans.
