It’s been a summer of walking, hiking, biking, and more walking (all from a responsible distance!), and we’re betting autumn will look very similar. The best fall shoes can make the transition from questionably supportive footwear to laces and buckles all the more bearable, but since you may not be reaching for those fuzzy socks just yet, we compiled a list of cold-weather-appropriate footwear that fulfills the season’s dressing needs of utility and style.
Two popular shoe trends to come out of quarantine are house slippers (a style ranging from mules to sling-back Uggs) and ballet flats—these require no socks, and can easily add a finished feel to your baggy joggers and breezy housedresses. But while slip-on-and-go footwear is great for short walks, longer distances (and potential run-ins with bad weather) require more practical choices. That’s where fall-appropriate sneakers, chunky boots, and loafers come in—many that are inspired by “ugly” ’90s trends. And, lucky for your feet, these silhouettes sit firmly under the “comfy” umbrella while still adding edge to a number of cute fall outfits.
It goes without saying that the fashion stakes are different this fall, but there are certain autumnal happenings you can still count on, like apple picking, pie baking, a certain spiced latte we may or may not order, and there will be walking—lots of it—including dramatic strolls in the rain while listening to Folklore, so it’s important to be prepared. From lace-up boots to square-toe flats, here are 23 of the best fall shoes for women in 2020.