Fall’s top shoe trends pick up where we left off in the spring—iterating on classic shapes while infusing them with personality-driven touches. The result? Styles that feel both familiar and new; wearable yet a touch unexpected. And with the spring/summer 2027 collections now unfolding in real time, it’s clear that many of fall’s biggest trends are here to stay.
A Look at Fall 2026’s Top Shoe Trends
The kitten heel was a reference point for many designers—Celine, Prada, and Proenza Schouler included—who reworked pared-back silhouettes with playful, feminine flourishes. We’ve seen plenty already on the streets of New York Fashion Week. (Those looking for a little more height can turn to options from Victoria Beckham, Jil Sander, and Stella McCartney.)
Elsewhere, designers reimagined the T-strap—in both heeled sandal and pump form. It’s a perfect transitional shoe—sturdier than a flip-flop, but still perfectly suitable for a warm day. Though, for the colder months, you can pair it with knee-high or crew socks the way Dries Van Noten and Fendi did.
Firework content
Slippers made their mark for fall too—from the return of classics like Gucci’s fur-lined horse-bit style to patterned and embroidered takes from Ralph Lauren and Conner Ives. A slip-on brings an ease to daily dressing, adding a polished feel to worn-in jeans and a laid-back cool to skirts.
Already spotted on the spring summer 2027 runways in New York, kitten heels, textured pumps, and slip-on silhouettes are set to continue their reign. Now is the time to invest in styles that will carry you through the winter and into spring. Below, a closer look at all the top fall 2026 shoe trends.
Don’t miss the rest of our fall 2026 fashion coverage, from the fall fashion trends to know to the handbag styles that complement these looks best.
The Animal Print
The fall/winter 2026 runways went wild for animal print. Leopard, snakeskin, zebra, and even abstract iterations appeared across footwear styles. For the minimalist, take a cue from Khaite and pair snakeskin pumps with rinse-wash denim. Or, for a more maximalist take, look to Isabel Marant, where crimson jeans proved the ideal complement to zebra-print tall boots.
Textured Shoes
The wild card crowdpleaser? Statement shoes! Whether in heeled or flat form, these whimsical creations balance summer’s playful energy with fall’s gravitas. Reach for textured pumps or sequined sneakers to add an unexpected pop to any look. No matter the occasion or destination, they bring a little fancy footwork to every step.
The Slipper
The slipper’s (or soft loafer, in some instances) effortless yet trend-forward nature was illustrated at Conner Ives and Calvin Klein, where it grounded statement skirts and sequined dresses, respectively. A hybrid of the ballet flat and mule, we love it styled with baggy, wide-leg jeans and a military jacket for an eclectic twist.
The Kitten Heel
Fall’s kitten heel marries uptown elegance with downtown edge, thanks to unexpected touches like intricate embellishments and modern hardware. For the on-the-go woman, it’s a sensible style for the 9-to-9—with plenty of personality, to boot.
The T-strap
The T-strap makes its return for fall! Dior and Givenchy presented open-toe styles that can easily be added to your transitional rotation. Come later in the season, lean into the trend with a sharp pointed toe and a sock styled underneath. The shape is a natural match for an elegant midiskirt, as seen at Calvin Klein, Dries Van Noten, and Fendi.
The Pump
A favorite in recent seasons, the fashion pump continues to reign supreme. For fall 2026, fresh takes walked the runway at Stella McCartney, Chanel, and Tory Burch—from barely there glove pumps to pop of color slingbacks. We love it rendered in unexpected hues and playful prints for right now.
The Cone Heel
Playing with shape also meant designers revisited the heel itself. The result? Cone heels made their way en masse onto the fall/winter 2026 runways. As seen on pumps, slingbacks, and leather and suede boots, the sculptural silhouette instantly sharpens your look. For right now, reach for a rounded-toe style that slips effortlessly beneath tailored trousers and straight-leg jeans.
