The 5 Hottest Fall Runway Footwear Trends — & You Can Score Them All At DSW

Shoes are one of the simplest ways to transition an outfit from season to season, especially if you choose a shoe inspired by the latest runway trends. And while the idea of nabbing a pricey piece from the runway might seem like an impossible dream, here’s the truth: It’s not necessary to buy designer to take advantage of the latest ‘It’ styles. It’s all about identifying specific features like color, texture, and silhouette — and then finding common elements in more accessible pieces. Which is why DSW, if it isn’t already, is about to become your shoe-shopping bestie.

Known for rounding up in-style designs ranging from casual to dressy, DSW has a pitch-perfect selection of the latest runway trends, and this list has rounded up the fashion girlies’ favorites. Like the chunky sneaker shapes that continue to feature prominently, now loafers and biker boots are getting the pumped-up treatment. Structured, office-inspired looks are also coming in hot, with slingbacks one of the must-have styles on every fashion girlie’s list. And in terms of color, you’ll find a riff on last season’s red craze: A deep, subdued oxblood that matches the moodiness of cooler weather.

Chunky Loafers

A perennial classic, the loafers this season have serious edge. Attitude. They’re a little bratty — in the best, most Charli XCX sense. Take this loafer designed by Marc Fisher; the mirror-finish faux leather contrasts with a preppy tassel, for a look that’s anything but sedate. Statement-makers won’t want to sleep on this Kelly & Katie loafer in an on-trend leopard print with gold-toned hardware — it’ll make any outfit pop. You’ll notice that the Mix No. 6 loafer cleverly combines a couple must-have fall trends, adding a slingback buckle strap to the thick platform heel, and adding grommet detail for even more grunge-inspired edge. For a quieter but equally trendy take on the chunky loafer, try out this Franco Sarto pair; the patent finish and tassel accent are the definition of timeless, with a low stacked heel that’s less intense than its chunkier counterparts while still capturing the statement-making essence of the trend.

Biker Boots

This season has brought moto boots with major heft — and while you might think of this style as leaning casual, there are versions that would even suit a dressier aesthetic. Take, for example, this pair of Mix No. 6 booties; with a sharp pointed toe, grommet buckle detail, and flared block heel, they’d provide the perfect counterpoint to a fluttery boho floral. A tall biker boot, like this Mia Dese pair, is ideal paired with an on-trend mini or micro skirts — the abbreviated hemline will allow you to show off the boot’s decorative harness and buckle details while grounding the silhouette. For an equally classic take without the extended shaft, consider this Bullboxer Cora pair; with that stacked heel and rounded toe, it gives all the edge you’d expect from the trend, in a versatile mid-height shaft that can be paired with a variety of pants and skirts. And, if you’re looking for something in-between casual and dressy, this Vince Camuto boot walks the line with ease; its ankle-length shaft and chunky block heel are accented by rugged gold-toned hardware.

Oxblood

It’s one of fall’s defining colors: oxblood. The deep wine shade manages to be both elegant and slightly punk; perhaps one of the best ways to toe the line between the demure and brat aesthetics. This Steve Madden bootie is about as stunning as it gets, with the slender kitten heel and pointed toe amplifying the elegance of the ruched, Bordeaux-toned faux leather. And you can’t go wrong with the classic loafer from Kelly & Katie. In a moody cherry, it features an eye-catching white strip just above the sawtooth sole and a penny strap across the vamp — an up-to-date take on a timeless silhouette. Perhaps, though, you’re looking to make a statement; in that case, this patent leather platform Jessica Simpson Mary Jane is a must. Mirror-finished burgundy combines with a chunky platform sole and delicate straps to create a shoe that feels like a loud twist on the femme design. And this adidas sneaker, in a moody maroon, is an essential for any wardrobe, the lace-up leather upper is emblazoned with the iconic triple stripe that’s become so sought after in fashion circles.

Slingbacks

Ah, the slingback. Suggestive — yet sensible. No need to suffer in a sky-high stiletto — fall’s hottest slingbacks feature pointed toes and details special enough for evening looks while remaining remarkably wearable. For a playful take, consider these Betsey Johnson slingbacks; the floral print, pearl-embellished foot strap and sequined bow make an immediate statement that feels both true to the iconic designer’s aesthetic and in step with the season’s trends. To take your look from day to night, it’s hard to beat this mesh pair by Kelly & Katie. The sheer pointed-toe upper is minimal enough to pair with trousers and blazers — and spicy enough to handle a cocktail dress. The metallic trend continues in this pair of Mix No. 6 slingbacks, which combines the gleaming finish with a pointed toe and grommet-accented buckles; they’re a bit femme and a bit punk. And let’s not forget the power of a snakeskin print, which this pair of Madden Girl slingbacks employs to devastating effect. The print takes center stage, accented by a pointed toe and delicate low heel.

Desert Aunt

Hippie-chic trends have returned, and there are several ways you can take advantage of the rising wave. If Western-themed pieces have been speaking to you, try out this pair of Jessica Simpson cowboy boots — the 3.5-inch stacked heel and turquoise-accented buckle detail can’t miss, and they’re a natural pairing with the trend’s fluttery fabrics and florals. Who can forget, though, the iconic cozy furry bootie of the early aughts? Crafted from real suede and lined in cozy shearling, these Koolaburra by UGG are the OG; think Paris Hilton in the early aughts, but updated with an on-trend platform sole. For a dressier take on the look, try out these Steve Madden clogs; the fuzzy faux fur lining offers maximum coziness, with a chunky stacked heel for a little extra zhuzh. And with a southwestern-inspired print, this pair of Dirty Laundry clogs is giving desert aunt in the best way — perfect paired with an equally laid-back denim.