Fall is officially here, which means pumpkin patch visits, Halloween costume planning, and my personal favorite: a new set of fashion trends to try out for the season. As a shoe lover, my first stop is analyzing fall footwear trends, and this season has so many exciting options on the rise. Whether we look back at fall 2024 runway collections or examine the latest in street style photographs, it’s clear the new season is ushering in refreshing takes on classic shoe silhouettes. Unique shapes like square-toe shoes and pointed kitten heels are are at the forefront, plus there’s plenty of boot inspo this season, with edgy, biker-chic motorcycle boots and thigh-high styles becoming street style mainstays. Ahead, find nine fall shoe trends to try this season, complete with shoppable options to get the look yourself.
Biker Boots
We’re jumping into boot season with a majorly popular trend for fall 2024: motorcycle boots. This edgy, lace-less style is set to take over, and the best part is that these shoes are actually functional, comfortable, and easy to slide on or off—ideal for on-the-go fashion fans. Embrace your inner rocker with an all-black outfit, or go the boho-chic route and juxtapose the boots with a maxi skirt or a flowy dress.
Fair and Square
This fall, simple details are making all the difference in shoe trends. Square-toe shoes have become an elevated, sleek shape of choice. Whether you embrace the trend with ballet flats or heels, the style is an easy way to add an air of sophistication to your look. Despite the luxe silhouette, many brands have affordable options, so you can find an elevated pair that fits your budget.
Straight to the Point
Conversely, kitten heels and flats with ultra-pointy toes are continuing their rule into another season. While square-toe shoes are incredibly chic and of-the-moment, pointed-toe shoes are a timeless closet staple. Embrace your inner office siren by pairing your pointed-toe heels with a tailored look, or take a cue from the pierced pointed-toe heels we saw at Tory Burch’s spring 2025 show and use the shoe to add a bit of edge to your fall wardrobe.
Thigh High Boots
Boot trends have been inching their way up for the past few seasons, starting with booties and transitioning into knee-highs. Now, we’ve landed around mid-thigh (is anybody else predicting a boot pants revival for next year?). All jokes aside, this fall shoe trend can initially seem intimidating, but plenty of designers have given a masterclass on how to style it with their fall 2024 collections. Gucci paired thigh-high boots with teeny-tiny bottoms, embracing the “no pants” trend, while Chloé’s boots paired beautifully with boho-inspired, sheer flowy dresses.
Ballet Sneakers
Balletcore has been inescapable for the past couple of seasons, and while ballet flats and soft styles are still going strong, sneakerheads are getting their own spin on the style. The sporty twist started to emerge this past spring, but the trend is gaining more traction this fall. The ribbons create a delicate juxtaposition against sporty low-tops for the ultimate hybrid shoe. Anybody else have a sudden urge to listen to “Sk8ter Boi” by Avril Lavigne?
Slim and Sporty
Gone are the days of chunky platform sneakers (for now): This season, slim, sporty-style sneakers are the shoe of choice. Adidas, Puma, and Gola have led the simple, retro sneaker charge. Miu Miu’s collab with New Balance has ushered in a trending suede sneaker silhouette, but if you’re looking for a wallet-friendly alternative, brands like Jeffrey Campbell are adding their own versions to the mix.
Elevated Clogs
The boho revival is here, and if you’re embracing the trend, clogs are an essential. The comfortable style is an easy slip-on shoe for fall and will instantly add a chic touch to any outfit. Birkenstocks are a classic, comfy clog option, but you can also elevate the style with a platform or grommet studded accents.
Not Your Plain Mary Jane
The Mary Jane shoe trend is stronger than ever, but brands are leveling up the classic shoe this fall by adding multiple straps and exaggerated elements, like oversized bows. The trend is reaching far beyond flats, too: Give your look a lift by trying out platform and heeled options, which are becoming more popular thanks to celebrities like Taylor Swift adopting the trend.
All About Texture
Fuzzy, furry shoes are having a moment in high fashion right now. Are they functional? Not really. But are they fashionable? Absolutely. The fall 2024 runway shows were filled with different iterations of the maximalist shoe trend, but before you place it in the “not wearable” category, take a look at these chic options, which add a bit of subtle texture to any look.