As much as I hate to admit it, we don't live in a country where flip flops are fashionable (or functional) year-round. So here starts the seasonal search for chic yet still comfortable autumn/winter footwear, and there's no lack of style inspiration from the most recent runways.
Admittedly, there's nothing groundbreaking. In fact, we're ushering in many similar shapes to this time last year and going even further into the archives with some vintage-feeling finds (hello, peep-toe). Trusty trainers are still a fan-favourite – although they've taken on a slightly new look this time around – loafers are transcending office environments to everyday cool, and basic boots are leaning into a more laidback look with a serious slouch thanks to soft, supple leather (or faux fabrics, if that's more your style).
This all fits seamlessly into the wider autumn/winter 25 fashion trends where extravagance is in no short supply. Yes, I'm talking about the total take-over of faux fur. So, if you're looking to step into the new season in style (pun fully intended), you've come to the right place. Just scroll to see the latest shoe trends to start snapping up.
Polished peep-toe
Peep-toes might spark memories of your mum’s work wardrobe back in the day, but the retro cut is making a serious comeback. As our obsession with all things vintage grows, so too does the love for this toe-baring style. Seen on the runways at Tory Burch and Miu Miu, the peep-toe is your shortcut to a more polished, formal finish. Bonus points if you style them with tights or socks to make it feel much more of the moment.
Massimo Dutti Soft Leather High-Heel Sandals
Dries Van Noten 75 Leather Wedge Mules
Stradivarius Asymmetric Heel Wedges
Walk on the wild side
Our obsession with animal print shows no sign of slowing down. Last year was all about leopard-print jeans, but this season the trend has levelled up, bringing zebra, snake, leopard (and beyond) into the spotlight. When it comes to shoes, there are no rules – it’s all about picking the style that seamlessly slots into your wardrobe. From a sleek, black, snake-print court shoe to a bold zebra-print ankle boot, nothing is off the cards.
H&M Heeled Leather Mules
Schuh Bambi Leather Heel in Brown & White
& Other Stories Kitten Heel Leather Knee Boots
Loafer love
The loafer has long reigned supreme as the formal footwear for all office environments, but it's quickly working its way into non-work settings as well. Prada proves they look super sleek when paired with jeans, while Gucci – one of the OG loafer lovers — shows us that no shade or fabric is off-limits. Vibrant green, anyone?
Mango Gathered Leather Moccasin
Dune Grisella
Gucci Women's Princetown slipper
Attention-grabbing trainer
Trainers have long been the go-to for comfy-meets-chic footwear, and while this season sees a shift towards more polished picks (hi loafers, hello peep-toes), the sneaker isn’t going anywhere. Although, they’ve had a fashion-first makeover. Take Cecilie Bahnsen’s floral Asics collab or Miu Miu’s snake-print sneaker as proof that this season's trainers are all about bringing attention.
Cecilie Bahnsen Blaise Shoes
Adidas SL 72 OG Shoes Price
H&M Trainers
A serious slouch
Of course, autumn is boot season. No other shoe has quite the same power to shield us from the wind and rain. But this year, the classics (ankle and knee-highs, we’re looking at you) are taking a back seat. The spotlight is firmly on the slouch. Think buttery-soft leather, relaxed silhouettes and easy, oversized widths all serving that effortless, undone vibe. Louis Vuitton and Balmain are leading the way with this one.
Alohas Kalila 50 Ruched Leather Knee-High Boots
ASOS DESIGN Cambria Slouch Pull On Boots
Isabel Marant Edrik Gathered Leather Ankle Boot
Consider your shoe wardrobe in need of an update!
