9 Shoe Trends That Are Taking Over Fall 2020
As we head into the upcoming season, shoe trends are falling into two camps: practical or joyful. As many of us have been rethinking our personal style to prioritize comfort and versatility, it's no surprise that we're seeing that reflected in many of the biggest shoe trends emerging this fall. There's certainly no denying the rising popularity of silhouettes like flat boots and slip-on clogs. On the other side of the spectrum, there's been a big surge in shoes that have an element of glamour or fun, whether heels adorned with crystals and chains or vibrant shades like electric green and sky blue.
We're already seeing these popular fall shoes adopted by the fashion set, who are proving exactly how to wear them now. Ahead, see how insiders are styling the season's standout shoe trends and shop my edit of the nine styles to keep your eye on for fall 2020.
Prediction: Chunky Chelsea boots will be the biggest shoe trend of fall 2020. There, I said it. The perfect blend of cool and practical, these are about to be everywhere. Style them with anything from a skirt suit to leather trousers.
Shop chunky Chelsea boots:
Here's another shoe trend that's already a fashion insider favorite. While loafers have been popular in the past, this time around they're getting a makeover with platform soles. The coolest way to wear the chunkier silhouette is with ankle socks.
Shop platform loafers:
Ready for a little bit of fun? Get ready to embrace the cool embellished shoes that are dropping from designers across the board. Whether they're finished with crystal trim or built-in chains, these are the ultimate statement piece.
Shop embellished heels:
Spotted on the F/W 20 runways in the collections of designers like Bottega Veneta and Prada, you can be sure that rubber boots will be huge this fall. A personal favorite, it's a trend I'm already embracing. Right now, I'm wearing them with pieces like cutout slip dresses but will also be styling them with midi skirts and coats as we head into fall.
Shop rubber boots:
Sky blue is one of the season-defining colors, hands down. The cheery hue feels fresh and fun, but also looks great paired with neutrals like black. If you gravitate towards color, this is the most important shade of the season.
Shop sky blue shoes:
On the F/W 20 runways, the equestrian trend couldn't be ignored. The must-own piece to tap into the trend? Riding boots—whether sleek, classic, chunky, or modern.
Shop riding boots:
If you were all about Birkenstock sandals this summer, get ready for the fall version of comfortable slip-ons. For the season ahead, we'll be seeing clogs take over.
Shop clogs:
Yep, another boot trend to keep your eye on. Thigh-high boots are officially returning and are cooler than ever. This time around, we're seeing tight, second-skin versions that practically look like pants.
Shop thigh-high boots:
Acid green is another bold shade that's starting to pop up everywhere. Spotted in the new drops from designers like Amina Muaddi and The Attico, you just know that this vibrant shade is going to be in the closets of fashion insiders.
Shop acid green shoes:
Next, see the eight fall trends I'm already wearing.
Kristen Nichols is the Associate Director, Special Projects atBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing where she oversees luxury, runway content, and wedding features, and covers fashion within the luxury market, runway reporting, shopping features, trends, and interviews with leading industry experts. Kristen has worked with brands including Prada, Chanel, and Tiffany Co., and her style has been featured in publications including Vogue.com, Vogue France, WWD, and the CFDA. Kristen began her career at Rodarte, where she worked on styling, photo shoots, and runway shows, and at Allure, where she moved into print and digital editorial. She graduated from the University of Southern California, where she studied art history and business, and currently lives in New York.
-
If You Wear This Jean-and-Flat-Shoe Combination While Traveling, I'll Know You Have Cool Style
A go-to chic travel outfit is a must this season.
-
This Anti-Trend Shoe Is What People With Chic Style Are Wearing With Minidresses This Summer
It's a classic!
-
Goodbye, Boring Basics—This Is the Elegant Trend New Yorkers Are Wearing With Tank Tops This Summer
Obsessed.
-
See You in the Fall, Skinny Jeans—This Trend Is So Much Better With Flats for Summer
Casual, chic, and comfortable all in one.
-
Guess Who Just Paired the Dress Every NYC Girl Owns With 2025's Most Controversial Flat-Shoe Trend
Hint: She's very famous.
-
Put Down the Sneakers—*These* Are the Flats Everyone Everywhere Will Be Wearing With Dresses This Summer
Trust us.
-
If I See You Swap Your Classic Ballet Flats for This Specific Alternative, I'll Know You Have Chic Taste
Don't think about it—just do it.
-
This Uncommon Shoe Color Looks So Fresh With All-White Outfits
Mandy Moore gets it.