My Summer-To-Fall Wardrobe Would Be Nothing Without These Transitional Shoes
These are the only styles I'll be wearing for the next four months.


The fashion world is going through a major transitional phase at the moment. Retailers and insiders are ditching summer trends for fall-ready fashion, and I couldn't be happier. I've been slowly preparing my new-season wardrobe by adding transitional basics, trendy bags, and even a few suede jackets over the last few weeks. Now all that's left on my to-do list is getting my summer-to-fall shoes in line—and I've found a ton of chic options.
The fall shoe trends I'm shopping right now include classic loafers that will be the backbone of my preppy outfits and peep-toe shoes to replace my summer flip-flops. I can't forget about trendy sneakers, either, so I'll be picking up a pair (or two or three!) of retro-inspired kicks that feel fresh for fall. And as someone who prioritizes comfort over everything, transitional flat shoes like ballet flats and slipper mules are at the top of my shopping list, too.
I've rounded up my top picks for every fall shoe trend on my radar below for your shopping pleasure. Keep scrolling for an editor-approved curation of the transitional shoes to wear for the next four months.
Loafers
Loafers are always classic.
Loafers are so timeless, which is why they make a return every autumn. The neutral silhouette instantly adds a dose of preppiness to your look and never fails to be polished. Pair your leather or suede loafers with tube socks for a classic school-girl-inspired outfit.
Retro Sneakers
Retro sneakers are back for fall.
We're in the golden age of sneaker trends this year, but the style I'm most excited to throw on for fall is retro styles. These slim sneakers throw it back with luxe suede details and '80s-inspired silhouettes. Not only am I a fan, but so are celebs like Kendall Jenner, Dua Lipa, and Jennifer Lawrence.
Fall-Ready Flats
Flats can (and should) work in the fall.
From classic silhouettes to preppy Mary Janes, flats have been on the steady uprise for the last year. For the new season, however, I'm giving them an autumnal update with luxe textures, colors, and details. Suede styles and the celeb-approved ballet-sneaker hybrid are at the top of my wish list.
Out-of-the-House Slippers
Go comfy this season.
Among the fall shoe trends I have my eye on, slipper mules are undoubtedly the most comfortable. They're easy to style with everything and they add an element of low-key luxury to your look.
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Peep Toes
Peep toed styles are back from the early aughts.
Say goodbye to your flip-flops—peep-toe shoes are taking over as the skin-baring shoe trend of the season. The peek of toe cleavage feels both sexy and elegant, so naturally, I'm a fan. I'll be wearing them now with white skirts and linen, and well into the fall with my go-to denim and dresses.

Brooke Knappenberger is the Associate Commerce Editor at Marie Claire, where she specializes in crafting shopping stories—from sales content to buying guides that span every vertical on the site. She also oversees holiday coverage with an emphasis on gifting guides as well as Power Pick, our monthly column on the items that power the lives of MC’s editors. She also tackled shopping content as Marie Claire's Editorial Fellow prior to her role as Associate Commerce Editor.
She has over three years of experience writing on fashion, beauty, and entertainment and her work has appeared on Looper, NickiSwift, The Sun US, and Vox Magazine of Columbia, Missouri. Brooke obtained her Bachelor's Degree in Journalism from the University of Missouri’s School of Journalism with an emphasis on Magazine Editing and has a minor in Textile and Apparel Management.