I’m back with another post in my fall essentials series. This time, we’re talking all about the essential shoes. Your footwear needs are absolutely dependent on your lifestyle, probably more so than any other category of items in your wardrobe. If you’re a stay-at-home mom, you’ll probably lean more into sneakers or if you are a teacher, comfortable flats are probably your jam. If you’re going into the office, you’ll likely prefer ankles boots and heels. Stock your wardrobe with the type of shoe that fits your lifestyle the best.
I’ve broken down my favorite pairs in each category below including flats (i.e. loafers, ballet flats, mules, etc.,) boots, heels, and sneakers.
Fall Essentials: Shoes
Flats
For flats, there are several categories to choose from. I recommend having a pair of loafers and a pair of ballet flats for 2023. I think those two options will give you the most versatility in your wardrobe. For loafers, I own these from Frēda Salvador which are so cool (pictured above), but this pair is very similar and more affordable. Ballet flats have really come back in style the last 2 years. Mary Janes are the ‘it’ style right now. If you have short legs like me, avoid styles with a short, rounded toe, and opt for a pair with an elongated toe like these or a square toe like these. For other flats, try a pair of slingback flats (so chic!), an Oxford or a mule (so easy to slip on!)
Boots
I LOVE boots! This is the style of shoe I wear the most in fall. The two styles of boots I prefer are a classic heeled ankle boot and the more casual chelsea boot. You’ll want to avoid dated styles that have any cutouts or a low shaft where your ankle will show. For ankle boots, I absolutely adore this pair from J.Crew which has an elongated toe, kitten heel, and medium height shaft. There are so many colors available, too. I also have this sock style ankle boot from Everlane which I love because it fits nicely under any pair of jeans. For chelsea boots, I own this pair from Poppy Barley, this pair from Nisolo (size up a half size, code ASHROHR for 20% off your first purchase), and this pair from Frēda Salvador. Here in Seattle, the chelsea boot is SO popular because it’s super functional for rainy, wet conditions. I don’t own a pair, but if you prefer dresses and skirts, definitely invest in a knee high boot like this.
Heels
This is the smallest category as I don’t wear heels all that much (I prefer a heeled ankle boot for fall.) I like having one pair of heels for date night, and I just recently purchased this comfortable pair from Everlane. I’m also linking a couple more kitten heel options that I think are cute and perfect for daily wear.
Sneakers
Everyone needs a nice pair of sneakers for all seasons. These SHOULD NOT be the sneakers you workout in. I like having a plain slim white sneaker and a more ‘sporty’ looking option as well. You don’t want to wear running shoes! Choose a sneaker that looks less athletic and more lifestyle.
For plain white sneakers, I LOVE this chic pair from Frēda Salvador (use code STITCHANDSALT15 for 15% off your first purchase.) I’ve linked a few more affordable options below. For the ‘sporty’ pair, I know chunky styles have been trending the last few years, but if you want a pair that is always in style, choose a classic sneaker like the New Balance 574. If you have a budget to play around with or are a sneaker fan, you can also add a trendy shoe like the Adidas Samba or Gazelle (if they ever come back in stock, that is.) or a high top Converse.
Other posts in this series you may have missed:
