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Once the warm summer sun gives way to autumn leaves and cooler temps, it's time to put up your sandals and flip flops and start rocking your fall footwear. Usually, this means more substantial shoes or boots that work well with heavier clothes. This doesn't mean you have to give up dresses and switch to pants once fall rolls around, though. Plenty of fall-friendly shoes look fierce with dresses, no matter what style you're into.
Menswear-Inspired Shoes
For an adorably preppy fall look sent straight from style heaven, pair a dress and tights with a pair of menswear-inspired shoes, such as wingtips, lace-up oxfords or loafers. For a more classic look reminiscent of preppy boarding school attire, stick with traditional flat leather shoes. If you want to rock a slightly snazzier version of this look, try menswear shoes in bright colors or patent leather. And if flat men's shoes feel too boyish, try platform loafers with a heel.
Feminine Options
If you want your footwear to stay feminine in the fall, try slingback pumps with bow details or super pointy toes. They're heavier than a more summer-appropriate sandal but look more feminine than chunky oxfords or loafers. Shoes with straps or buckles are also totally in during the fall. For a cute and girly autumn look, slide on a pair of Mary Janes or peasant-style buckle shoes over a pair of opaque tights.
Boot Up
If you want a fierce fall ensemble, you can't go wrong with boots and a dress. To keep your legs warm while looking chic, opt for a pair of tall equestrian-style boots. For a more boyish look, try combat boots, cowboy boots or flat ankle boots with metal details. Suede booties or granny boots will give your outfit a cute vibe while keeping your feet toasty, and heeled ankle boots with pointy toes will add some edginess to your fall ensemble. Basically, boots rule in the fall, no matter what style you're into.
Fall Heels
If skinny heels look too delicate with a heavier fall dress and coat, switch to thicker heels to stay seasonally appropriate. Wedge-style heels will give you height and, as an added bonus, they're way easier to balance on than thinner heels. Thicker stacked heels also look just right for fall. Try a pair of campus-style boots with a stacked heel, or stacked heel pumps or Mary Janes for a footwear option that's feminine without looking too skimpy.
