Refreshing your wardrobe for fall can be downright stressful. All of the sudden the temperatures drop and your closet is supposed to be stocked full of jackets, scarves and sweaters that are both cozy and on-trend. Even more challenging is finding the right shoes. While sandals or slides were your summer go-tos, there are just so many more options when it comes to dressing for weather that is cool and breezy.
Instead of feeling paralyzed by possibility this year, try to keep it simple. Think of your fall shoe collection as a set of timeless, versatile pieces that make you feel effortlessly put together even on the days when you feel like a mess .
To help you get started, we've put together a list of the five styles to keep in mind when you're out shopping for your new staples, or when you're looking to spruce up last year's favorites.
1. The smart and sophisticated office-appropriate flat
A well-crafted, sturdy flat made of leather or suede is beyond necessary this season. You can opt for loafers, oxfords or pointy-toe flats, and pair them with anything from jeans to skirts to trousers. Using a bold color or metallic shoe as a basic will add some personality to an otherwise tame outfit.
Loeffler Randall Rose Point-Toe Slip-On Shoes, $375 ; Zara Flat Shoes With Ankle Strap, $49 ; Cole Haan Pinch GRAND O/S Tassel Loafer, $168
2. A pair of comfy, yet polished heeled booties for easy day-to-night dressing
Booties are sophisticated enough for that 8 a.m. meeting, but fun enough for dinner and drinks out with friends. This year, go beyond the traditional options and play with color and texture. Mix wool and leather, try a sleek suede pair or experiment with shades of burgundy, navy or gray. A chunky heel will also keep you feeling comfortable and supported no matter what the day brings.
3. The trendy white sneakers you must wear after Labor Day
Break all the rules with a pair of versatile white sneakers for a laid back weekend look. Rock them with a t-shirt and boyfriend jeans, a dress and cropped jacket or a blazer and tailored black trousers.
Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Brea leather high top sneakers, $75 ; Vans True White Classic Slip On Sneakers, $85 ; Women's New Balance For J. Crew 620 Sneakers, $80
4. Sleek moto boots for when you're feeling a little edgy
Stylish and functional, flat moto boots can be dressed up or down and worn with anything from tights to trousers. When selecting your moto boots this year, pay attention to the details: do you prefer a well-placed zipper, a stylish buckle (or two) or intricate stitching? Whichever you choose, know that if you invest in a good pair, they'll last you years.
Aquatalia by Marvin K. 'Sami' Weatherproof Moto Boot, $495 ; H&M Suede Boots, $69 ; Frye Ethan Triple-Buckle Leather Ankle Boots, $378
5. The unexpectedly stylish rain boot
Every girl needs a fashionable defense against wet and sticky weather. Treat your rain boots like real boots and stick to styles you would wear in leather or suede, like a Chelsea or equestrian boot. As a rule of thumb, think of shorter boots as good commuting shoes when the weather is unpredictable, and taller boots as your best bet in an all-out torrential downpour.
rag & bone Moto Rain Boot, $225 ; Hunter Women's Original Tall Gloss Rain Boots, $150 ; J. Crew Matte Chelsea Rain Boots, $68
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