Essentials: Fall Shoes

It’s a strong philosophy in the fashion world that shoes can totally, completely and utterly change someone’s look. A simple tee and jeans goes from nay to yay with the right pair of shoes. This season there’s an endless array of shoes to choose from. Fall and winter shoes can be a little difficult to buy because unlike spring and summer, we aren’t showing a lot of skin (because everything goes with skin, right?). During the cooler months, opt for shoes in luxurious fabrics, durable leathers and rich colors.

Flats have become a fast staple in everyone’s shoe wardrobe. This season they can be worn to transition from sandals to boots. As the temperature drops, wear them with tights and textured leggings for a fresh look. If you already have the standard black ballet flats, pick something extravagant this fall. Marc by Marc Jacobs’ Suede Flat with Python Trim ($310, eluxury.com) is the perfect alternative to neutral flats. The dark green is fresh, but versatile and the detailing allows the shoe to be worn for better occasions as well as everyday outings. Metallic extras are abundant this season, and flats are good way to play into the trend for day and night. Donna Karan’s Ballerina flats ($350, Nordstrom.com) are available in an antique gold metallic, which warms any skin tone, and also pops when worn with rich colored tights.

Pumps play a strong role every season, and this fall, they’re available in every height and print. Since black is so prominent in ready-to-wear, look for pumps that spunk up a look. Leopard packs a good punch, so look to Roberto Cavalli’s Pony Leopard pump ($625, eluxury.com). For a girly, whimsical pump, turn to Marc by Marc Jacobs’ Wool Felt and Patent Bow pump ($360, eluxury.com). The contrasting trim and delightful bow give it a fun soft touch not found in most pieces this season. If you’re in need of another pair of black pumps, spring for a better, more interesting version. Donna Karan’s suede platform pump ($570, Nordstrom.com) and platform pump ($450, Nordstrom.com) both boast 4 inch heels and the heavy platform so sought after this season. They can be worn with tights and dresses, skinny jeans or skirts to make for unforgettable go-to looks all fall and winter.

Everyone’s favorite fall shoe to shop for is boots! The right boots (and this can be said of all shoes, but boots especially) can pull together a look in seconds. This season look for ones in great skins with gold hardware and lacing. For a knee-high boot, find something that can be worn with skinny jeans and a chunky sweater that add the wow factor. Roberto Cavalli’s Slouchy Tiered boot ($995, eluxury.com) come in a rustic brick red that blends easily with fall’s heavy colors, as well as most shades of denim. Marc by Marc Jacobs brings the glamour of an evening shoe to a boot with Suede Knee-High Leather boots with Python Print trim ($775, eluxury.com). Ankle boots are beyond abundant to choose from, and are a perfect choice for wearing with sweater dresses and leggings. The quirky-chic trend is huge for ankle boots, and no one is doing it better than Marc Jacobs with the Platform Slouch Bootie ($985, Nordstrom.com). If you love the look of a contrasting boot, try DKNY’s Annabella Ruched Bootie ($325, eluxury.com), which is available in a glorious winter white, but is edgy and fresh in design.

published September 5th, 2006