Shoes from the Shows: The Essential Fall 2021 Trends

Step right up.

Words by Sierra Mayhew

COURTESY

Living life in socks and slippers finally feels like a distant memory. Recent runways have offered a promising (footwear) future that we’re already stepping into. Allow us to get you caught up on all the trends. This fall, we’re taking our boots, loafers, and pumps to the next level (and if you’re as daring as our favorite designers, you won’t be afraid to add a platform to all of the above). We’re taking a stab at the boldest of them all with a fringed sandal but also simplifying things with an elevated update on the classic western boot. No look is complete without the right shoe—scroll on to discover your new favorite pair.

1. GET THE LOOK: Spaceship Chic

Inspiration from Isabel Marant.

FILIPPO FIOR / GORUNWAY.COM

Locky Low Boot in Silver Isabel Marant

$1,155 AT SHOP BAZAAR

After a year without traveling, a trip to outer space is long overdue. Our packing list includes freeze-dried food, puffy outerwear, and, of course, a metallic boot. With how fast this trend has picked up, we’re calling silver the new neutral.

2. GET THE LOOK: Short and Sweet

Inspiration from Bottega Veneta

GETTY IMAGES

Puddle Boot Bottega Veneta

$650 AT SHOP BAZAAR

The latest from Bottega Veneta takes practicality into the fashion arena. We’re seeing a rise in short hiking and weatherproof boots coming from our favorite designers. Looks like it’s time to plan an outdoor trip!

3. GET THE LOOK: Fringe Fantastic

Inspiration from A.W.A.K.E. MODE.

A.W.A.K.E. MODE

Delta High Tassel Sandal A.W.A.K.E. MODE

$690 AT SHOPBOP.COM

Shake your feathers, or fringe in this case, and get ready to dance the night away by adding a statement feature to your footwear that brings the party to you. This is the sandal you can start wearing now.

4. GET THE LOOK: Second Skin

Inspiration from Prada

PRADA

Patent Leather Over-the-Knee Boot Prada

$1,300 AT MODA OPERANDI

It’s called leather weather for a reason. This boot is sky high and super fitted. While a minidress is a fun way to show some skin, we also suggest pairing this style with a longer skirt to level up your look.

5. GET THE LOOK: Glitz and Glam

Inspiration from Chanel.

Chanel

Open Shoes Strass Silver & Black Chanel

$2,700 AT CHANEL

Take a note from the revival of Y2k and upgrade your pretty pumps with embellishments. This iconic shoe was the main character on the Chanel runway and will also take on that role in your closet.

6. GET THE LOOK: Halfway There

Inspiration from JW Anderson

JW ANDERSON

Chain Loafer in Military Green JW Anderson

$645 AT SHOP BAZAAR

Nothing can better prepare you for a smooth transition into fall than a loafer/mule hybrid. Our pick has to be the JW Anderson loafer. Chunky gold features and shiny leather will make it stand out in a crowd.

7. GET THE LOOK: Barbie Girl

Inspiration from Versace

VERSACE

Satin Platform Pump Versace

$1,295 AT SAKS FIFTH AVENUE

See over the crowd in a double-layered platform pump. Kitten heels can be fun, but embrace your inner drama queen by adding this platformed pop of pink to your closet.