Top 10 Fall 2025 Shoe Trends OUT of Style & What to Wear Instead

Heather Anderson
by Heather Anderson

If you’re as obsessed with shoes as I am, you’re in the right place.


Today I’m breaking down the hottest fall shoe trends for 2025 along with the ones that are completely out of style, so you’ll know exactly what to wear and what to skip this season (unless you prefer to be a rebel!)

1. Platform boots out, knee-high boots in

Platform boots are out, but sleek knee-high boots are in.


Platform boots

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I especially love chocolate brown suede knee-high boots because they look luxurious and act as a neutral, just like black. 


I styled mine with a black sweater dress and bomber jacket, creating a chic and on-trend fall look.

Suede knee-high boots

2. Lace-up heels out, peep toe mules in

Lace-up heels are no longer in style.


Lace-up heels

Instead, peep toe or open-toe mules are where it’s at.

Leopard mules

My leopard mules are both stylish and comfortable, with a perfect heel height that works for day or night.

Leopard mules

3. Bright colors out, exotic prints in

Bright pinks, yellows, and neons are fading away, while exotic prints are dominating.


Pink heels

From leopard mules to snake print heels, these patterns elevate any look, especially when paired with an all-black outfit for maximum sophistication.

Walmart heels

This pair from Walmart was only about $30 and despite the price tag, they look incredibly elegant.

Walmart heels

4. Clogs out, strappy heels in

Clogs tried to make a comeback but never really landed.


Heeled clogs

Instead, black strappy heels are trending this fall. They’re minimal, chic, and versatile. This pair is just so tastefully sexy in my opinion.

Strappy heels

I styled mine three different ways to show just how wearable they are.


Strappy heels

5. Moto boots out, sock booties in

Moto boots are stepping aside for the return of sock booties.


Moto boots

My favorite pair has a pointy toe that elongates the legs and adds elegance to any look. Best of all, they’re so comfortable I’ve worn them all over New York without sore feet.

Sock booties

Something I love about sock booties is that the top part is that they’re tighter around the ankles so they don’t look bulky under pants.

Sock booties

6. Round toe flats out, pointy toe mules in

Round toe flats feel dated, while pointy toe mules are the “it” shoe.


Silver flats

I love my black mesh Steve Madden mules since they’re stylish, affordable, and come in multiple colors.

Steve Madden mules

Paired with a navy blue faux fur jacket and tailored jeans, they instantly look designer.


Steve Madden mules

7. Sky-high stilettos out, kitten heels in

I couldn’t be happier that uncomfortable stilettos are out.


Stiletto

Kitten heels are chic, modern, and so much easier to wear.

Kitten heels

My black Saint Laurent pair is elegant and versatile, pairing beautifully with Reformation jeans and a suede jacket.

Kitten heels

8. Chunky dad sneakers out, sleek sneakers in

The chunky dad sneaker trend has passed, making way for sleek, minimal sneakers.


Dad sneaker

I’m eyeing a chocolate brown pair that feels chic and understated, perfect for casual fall outfits.


Brown sneaker

9. Metallics out (but I’m still wearing them), ankle strap heels in

Apparently metallic shoes are out, but I can’t give mine up! I love my gold and silver heels too much.


Metallic heel

If you’d rather follow the trend, ankle strap heels are the current must-have, and they look stunning with dresses, skirts, or denim.

Ankle strap heels

10. Lug sole loafers out, boat shoes in (but not for me)

Lug sole loafers are leaving, and boat shoes are sliding in. 


Lug sole loafers

Personally, I’m not a fan of boat shoes as I find them to be overly preppy and masculine for my style. So I’ll be skipping this trend. But as always, take what you like and leave the rest.

Boat shoes

Fall shoe trends

At the end of the day, fall shoe trends should inspire you, not dictate your style. Pick two or three trends that resonate with you, and don’t be afraid to hold on to the ones you love, even if the fashion world says otherwise.


Let me know in the comments below what’s your favorite fall 2025 shoe trend. And if you loved this post, check out these 10 fall fashion trends you’ll want to try.

The author may collect a small share of sales from the links on this page.

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