STYLING
THE SHOE TREND WE’LL BE WEARING ALL AUTUMN
By Flo Bellinger, 18 August 2025
#1: LOAFERS
Loafers are trending? Again? We can already sense the eyerolls. But before you emotionally clock out, it’s worth noting two things: firstly, if a shoe is still this pervasive season after season, that’s got to mean something. And secondly – despite being a familiar favourite – this autumn’s loafer is taking a new form with the help of a colourful companion. Statement socks (whether that’s heavy knits, dramatic lengths or bold colours) are the perfect pairing with this classic set of shoes. Not only do they keep your feet warm when winter starts to rear its head, but they also bring a touch of modern flair to a classic silhouette. We love a grey sock and black loafer combo, especially when worn with a short brown tailored co-ord – a serious lesson in A* preppy style.
GET THE LOOK:
ASOS DESIGN Milan chunky chain detail loafers in black, £30
Topshop Carter loafers with ruched detail in black, £36
Dr Martens unisex Adrian tassel loafers in cherry red arcadia leather, £150
Mango leather loafer in cherry red, £89.99
#2: MARY-JANES
Mary-Janes are another staple in the preppy roster, and 2025 has seen plenty of low-profile ballerina takes on this strappy silhouette. But autumn calls for more durable styles, like heels and platforms. The best thing about this shoe is its inherently feminine design, making it the perfect addition to a more structured or edgy outfit. If you’re particularly excited for cooler weather, opt for burgundy or brown shades that tap into new-season trends.
GET THE LOOK:
London Rebel Sophia chunky mary janes in burgundy, £32
Dr Martens Elphie mary jane shoes in black, £140
ASOS DESIGN Peso platform Mary Jane high heel shoes in black, £30
SEQWL Wide Fit Jeep mary jane with broguing detail in black, £28
#3: LEATHER LACE-UPS
Never has a shoe so successfully walked the line between classroom and couture. This understated staple has been a favourite of minimalist fashion houses like Calvin Klein and Prada for decades, and it’s easy to see why. A good pair of leather lace-ups won’t distract from the rest of your outfit but still feel elevated and put together. They’re also surprisingly comfortable and durable – so they’ll be in your wardrobe for the long haul.
GET THE LOOK:
Dr Martens unisex 1461 Quad 3 eye shoes in black smooth leather, £170
schuh Lyrica chunky moc toe lace up shoes in black leather, £55
Clarks Torview leather tassle shoe in black, £120
ASOS DESIGN More flat lace up shoes in black, £26
#4: BUCKLED SHOES
Pictures: ASOS
Perhaps the most contentious style on this list, buckled shoes are for those of us unafraid to go all-out preppy this autumn. If you wore a pair of these to school, you meant serious business (and probably read Jane Austen novels during lunch break). But nowadays, the humble buckle is shaking up runways and roadsides with its versatile smarts and copious reincarnations. From monkstrap silhouettes to pointed flats, there’s no shortage of choices for your latest wardrobe refresh. We love these paired with an oversized slouchy trouser in dark denim or tailored wool. But they also ooze back-to-school chic with a short-skirt ensemble.
GET THE LOOK:
SEQWL Vardy sling back sandals with buckle detail in red, £18
ASOS DESIGN Wide Fit Marigold chunky buckle detail flat shoes in black, £32
Steve Madden Gari buckle shoe in black, £140
Bronx Qui-nn monkstrap shoes in black brush off leather, £140
