When you’re fashion obsessed and have the opportunity to talk to an expert about shoes, you always say yes. I recently got to speak with Linda Cui Zhang, the associate fashion director at Nordstrom, about the shoe trends that she thinks will make the strongest impact this season, and she had me taking notes. At the helm of one of the leading platforms in fashion retail, Cui Zhang has a perspective on what to purchase that holds some extra weight.
With her experience curating collections and a finger on the pulse of consumer shopping habits, Zhang knows exactly which trends will define the coming months, and she reported on exactly that. There’s a trend in this story for everyone, so keep scrolling to find your shoe match for fall.
1. Tall, Fall Boots
“Enhance an outfit with a pair of tall boots. A tall boot extends the line of your leg, offering a sleek complement to skirts and creating a streamlined silhouette.” — Linda Cui Zhang
Shop:
Khaite
Marfa Suede Knee High Boot
Paige
Keely Knee High Boot
Sam Edelman
Sylvia Knee High Boot
2. Cozy Browns
“Warm, earthy neutral colors are a softer alternative to black. From cognac to espresso, there’s a shade of brown for everyone.” — Cui Zhang
Shop:
Jimmy Choo
Romy Pointed Toe Pump
aeyde
Zoe Kitten Heel Bootie
Veronica Beard
Lisbeth Slingback Pointed Toe Pump
Dolce Vita
Haylee Slingback Pointed Toe Pump
3. Ladylike Heels
“Refine your style with a classic ladylike heel to sharpen your outfit. It brings a dash of femininity to professional attire and a polished finish to occasion dressing.” — Cui Zhang
Shop:
Prada
Runway Pointed Toe Pump
BETZÁBE
Lola Pointed Toe Slingback Pump
Vince
Bianca Slingback Pointed Toe Pump
Loeffler Randall
Paloma Embellished Pointed Toe Mule
4. Pretty & Preppy
“Whether you’re pairing a loafer or flat with a laid-back striped polo or sophisticated patterned separates, the preppy look is cool and suitable for multiple occasions.” — Cui Zhang
Shop:
Miu Miu
Penny Loafer Mule
Roger Vivier
Viv Rangers Buckle Loafer
Stuart Weitzman
X Sandy Liang Loafer
Tory Burch
Cap Toe Mary Jane Pump
5. Suede & Shearling
“Texture and tactile fabrications like suede and shearling add dimension to your full look while bringing a cozy touch to your outfit.” — Cui Zhang
Shop:
Prada
Evolve Genuine Shearling Clog
Birkenstock
Arizona Big Buckle Genuine Shearling Lined Sandal
Birkenstock
Boston Genuine Shearling Clog
Jeffrey Campbell
Persona Faux Shearling Pointed Toe Slingback Pump
6. The City Boot
“Find the perfect balance with an ankle boot that toes the line, literally. The multipurpose style can elevate a casual look or add a touch of edge to a formal ensemble.” — Cui Zhang
Shop:
Veronica Beard
Cecile Cap Toe Bootie
Schutz
Mikki Pointed Toe High Heel Bootie
7. Romantic Bohemian
“Embrace the free-spirit style with bold shoes paired with flowing, romantic pieces to make a full boho-chic, sensible look.” — Cui Zhang
Shop:
Isabel Marant
Duerto Studded Western Boot
Chloé
Jeanette Platform Sandal
Cult Gaia
Zuri Sculpted Heel Boot
Larroudé
Dolly Embroidered Raffia Platform Sandal
8. Sporty Sneakerhead
“Go for a sporty yet minimalist vibe with ultra-low-profile sneakers. They’re perfect for adding an athletic touch to your everyday style.” — Cui Zhang
Shop:
Miu Miu
Leather Low Top Sneaker