How to wear the season’s must-have shoes

Posted on 7 November 2016
By Carlton Whitfield
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No fall outfit is complete without the perfect pair of shoes. Whether you love a good pair of cozy boots or simply can’t get by without some chic flats, this season’s shoe offerings offer a little bit of something for everyone. Check out a few of autumn’s top shoe trends and the endless amount of ways they are easily styled for any occasion.

The Over-the-Knee Boot

Although not new to the fall and winter line-up, the over-the-knee boot is only gaining popularity with each season. So, if you haven’t jumped on the thigh-high bandwagon yet, now is definitely the time. If you find yourself thinking, “no way, I could never pull those off,” we’re here to tell you that you’re not alone and that, thankfully, the OTK boot isn’t as intimidating as it seems. To make the thigh-high boot trend work for you, and to avoid looking all Pretty Woman, this article suggests opting for a suede or velvet pair rather than leather (or worse, patent leather). From there, experiment with different details like such as lace-up accents, fringe, colour, and heel height. Then, pair your over-the-knee boots with just about anything, from your favourite skinny jeans (for weekend outings) to a midi skirt (perfect for work) to a mini dress (sexy and sweet for a night out).

The Slip-On Loafer

If you love the versatility and practicality of a timeless flat but are looking to switch things up a bit this season, the slip-on loafer is the shoe for you. With a menswear-inspired aesthetic, this particular trend blends a timeless silhouette with modern details like bold colours, metallic finishes, luxe materials, and decidedly feminine pointed toes and block heels. They might not replace your go-to fall boots, but they will definitely give them a run for their money. Browse this designer’s collection for some serious loafer inspiration, including a fresh and modern take on the classic tasseled slip-on, and then proceed to wear your favourite style with anything and everything. Pair with denim kick flares (another top trend for the season) and a cashmere sweater for a casual take on the style, a shift dress and fitted blazer for an office-friendly look, or cropped trousers and a silk blouse for a holiday get-together with friends
and family.

The Platform Trainer

With the athleisure trend still going strong, it seems as though the trainer is here to stay. In fact, the one-time gym-only staple has quickly become a critical component of any wardrobe. As one post points out, now that sneakers have transitioned into a daily dress staple, they account for 25 percent of the shoes currently online. As for the top trainer trend for the fall and winter of 2016, the platform is arguably the style to have. The ’90s-inspired heel could be spotted on sandals this past spring and summer, so it’s no surprise that the platform has made its way into the world of casual footwear as well. Whether you opt for a platform sneaker in crisp, classic white or a bold print, this must-have shoe can be worn with skinny jeans and a tee for a laidback look, a midi slip dress layered over a turtleneck for a feminine twist, and—of course—leggings, a crop top, and a bomber jacket for an in-style take on athleisure.

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