THESE AUTUMN SHOE TRENDS ARE WORTH WATCHING

Exposing your heels to the elements might not feel especially cosy – but don’t sleep on an autumnal mule. This style is convenient for last-minute outings, given that they slips on in seconds. And in the face of a drastic temperature drop, they also pair well with a sock (the Birkenstock Naples is perfect for this). You’ll also find no shortage of options depending on your needs: fur-lined, suede, leather and heels. With structured tailoring and wide-leg trousers stepping out en masse this season, a low-slung mule could be the perfect footnote to your autumn/winter wardrobe.

GET THE LOOK: 

Clarks Torhill Mule in cow print suede, £90
Birkenstock Naples wrapped loafer in concrete grey suede, £150
schuh Teale clog mules in black leather, £56
Topshop Idea patent square toe mule in chocolate, £36

Trainers will always be the failsafe footwear option, but reinventing them can be an arduous task. It’s good news, then, that this year’s offerings feel infinitely different from your usual lineup – largely down to an emphasis on texture. Suede has quickly become the darling of our wardrobes, and now it’s coming for our shoes. From Miu Miu’s viral New Balance collab to low-profile silhouettes trimmed with soft brushed leather, this alt take on the trainer is a cosy hug for your feet.

GET THE LOOK: 

Bronx Myr-aa lace up trainers in chocolate suede, £130
Stradivarius trainer in dark brown leather suede, £39.99
OYSHO Split suede slippers in sand, £49.99
Vans Authentic hairy suede trainers in olive green with gum sole, £70

In sharp contrast to suede’s comfy warmth, high-shine leather is another textural trend worth watching. Both structured and wipeable, patent pieces are a durable addition to your lineup – and the reflective finish adds a slick signature to any look. We’re reaching for more traditional silhouettes to balance the leather’s striking glossiness – think brogues, loafers, and oxfords.

GET THE LOOK: 

Topshop Premium Clover real leather loafers with ruched detail in burgundy, £85
Dr Martens Temara Kensington loafer in cherry red leather, £120
ASOS DESIGN Marcel premium clean loafers in black leather, £50
New Look heeled loafer in burgundy, £37

Each season you’ll find a classic nestled amongst the roster of bold trends – and this autumn that’s the court heel. These understated shoes feature a pointed closed toe (perfect for cooler weather and hiding the remnants of that summer pedicure) with a crisp stiletto heel that cuts the pavement with refreshing finesse. Whether you’re quick-footing it to the office or heading for candle-lit drinks, a pair of these will instantly elevate your seasonal style. If in doubt, they’ll always look cute poking out from beneath a pair of jeans.

GET THE LOOK: 

Mango faux leather heeled stiletto in black, £45.99
ASOS DESIGN Spicy slingback stiletto mid shoes in chocolate, £28
Mango pointed stiletto in cherry red, £45.99
Topshop Demi cone heel court shoe with tie in chocolate, £42

If the court shoe is making a comeback, consider the 90s boot its sophisticated older sister. These nostalgic staples are strutting across cities in every shade and style imaginable – from brown suede to classic black leather. Favoured by pre-millennium icons like Jen Aniston and Kate Moss, a sharp heeled boot can never put a foot wrong in our eyes. We’ve seen them on recent runways at Chloé, TOTEME and Jil Sander, so it’s no surprise they’re starting to fill up our wishlists.

GET THE LOOK: 

London Rebel Ellie kitten heel mid ankle boots in burgundy, £35
Public Desire Ellen pointed toe heeled knee boots in brown faux suede, £50
Topshop Noah point toe boot in black, £45
Topshop Tash heeled over the knee boot in black, £65