Last night in a delicious burst of Indian summer, I dined al fresco on the deck with flip-flops on my feet and my face in the sun. Then, a gust of wind sent autumn leaves scurrying in a darkened sky like crows, and there was a sudden downpour.
Just like that: time for boots.
The realization that my flip-flops will be for resort wear only is a finality, and now on to the excitement that is fall footwear! Since I’ve been pounding the pavement with multiple media trips these days, I need stylish shoes that can take a beating. Here’s the latest:
1. My feet can live for days in loafers when on the run for work, and ones with a fun treatment like the expected buckle or playful tassels give room to showcase a given style personality. If you’re not shy, metallic loafers are having a moment, so go for gold.
2. Rugged mountain boots go with everything from jeans to military-inspired looks, and even add unexpected spice to a mini skirt and tights. Look for exposed zippers, cool hardware and made-to-look-worn leathers.
3. I always think of Mary Janes as entirely sweet with their not-too-high and stable heel and secure strap, and these days designers agree this retro nod is a comeback queen.
4. Shoes inspired by menswear fabrications are a refreshing twist to those that are heavily embellished and jeweled, here paired with a chunky heel—a signature of the season.
5. One simply cannot get enough of the over-the-knee boot, which I have written about before, namely because it serves a dual purpose: both that of a wicked statement and a function of keeping your legs warm.
6. I love a sexy shoe in the dead of winter, and this year anything dripping in velvet will do—even an ankle-strap sandal, though a full velvet pump is equally exotic.
7. Every season I thoroughly kill a pair of ankle boots until I wear the soles off. This year on the list? Trying something other than black with a sleek appeal that will go with everything. Here an option in grey.
8. I haven’t written about foldable ballet flats in awhile, but these are substantially more structured than previous attempts and have more embellishment options and designs too. I’m digging the bows, and they do come in other colors if you’re worried about soiling the pristine cream. Comes with a little pouch for easy purse storage.
