We all have our go-to fall shoes we wear year after year—classic black ankle boots, anyone? While there's nothing wrong with these staples (and you absolutely should keep wearing them!), we bet you're looking to invest in a few new shoe styles this season to keep your vibe fresh and current. The issue is simply deciphering exactly what's worth testing out and what you should avoid for the most of-the-moment look.
To help pinpoint the shoe styles that are in and out in the world of fall footwear, we tapped some of our favorite shoe designers to spill on everything you should toss and try right now. Some of these picks may surprise you, while others may be totally right up your alley (as in you'll want to whip out your credit card and add them to cart ASAP).
Keep scrolling for the ultimate fall shoe guide—and shop some of the absolute musts of the season.
In: "Mid-shin boots are the perfect style this season, especially when paired with cropped denim. Velvet is also proving a standout texture for fall, and we're excited to be introducing this with a modern twist," Dear Frances designer Jane Frances told us.
Out: "You can put the flatforms away this season," Frances says.
Every It girl will wear these gorgeous velvet boots.
We'd pair these with cool distressed jeans.
In: "I'm really into embroidered booties or booties with fringe—anything that has more flair and movement," Rebecca Minkoff told us.
Wear these with all black to make an instant statement.
These would be perfect to wear on the weekend.
In: "For fall, I'm really excited about mules, especially our square-toed Gem or Gywnne versions on low-block heels. They are great to wear all day, for weekend or work. I'm also obsessed with white! Our Calvin mules are really cool with a pointed toe—they have a real '90s Calvin Klein vibe to them," ASKA designer and creative director Kate Gordon told us.
Out: "I'm over spiky stilettos and lots of hardware on shoes. For fall, I like something refined and chic," says Gordon.
An all-white pair of boots is so fresh right now.
Your mules aren't going anywhere anytime soon.
In: "Feminine sneakers are the It shoes for this season," says Kaanas creative director Liliana Acevedo. "I'm all about the touches of metallic and embossed leather details combined with soft shades of blush and sand."
Out: "High-tops had their 15 minutes of fame, and now we're off to a softer, sportier look."
The pop of metal gives these a little something extra.
The leopard accent makes these even more on trend.
Related: Chrissy Teigen Is a Major Fan of Her Aquazzura Shoes
In: "For fall, I think velvet, the color crimson (almost a blood red), iridescence, and embroidered embellishments are all looking really fresh," designer and celebrity stylist Neil J. Rodgers told us.
Out: "Heavy soles and crystal embellishment are a bit tired," Rodgers advises.
This is a great pair of boots to wear when you want to feel powerful at work.
The lace-up detail here is incredibly current.
In: "This season, look for styles that incorporate soft suede, braids, and rich embroidery that celebrate the '70s and the decade of carefree, classic style embodied by icons like Joni Mitchell and Bo Derek," says Nick Brown, CEO and founder of Soludos.
Black slip-ons are an absolute staple.
These will go with any weekend outfit.
What shoe style will you try first this season? Let us know in the comments below.
Opening Image: Sandra Semburg
