Fall 2026 Shoe Trends Everyone Will Be Walking Around In

The season of rusty colors and pumpkin pie spices has started, as we're ready to let go of beachy fashion and long, hot days. While we might regret saying this as soon as the rainy season starts, right now, putting on "Gilmore Girls" and getting cozy with a hot cup of tea sounds incredibly appealing. And one thing we know for sure we'll love during fall 2026 is all the fun fashion and beauty trends. Some formerly buzzy style trends are firmly outdated in 2026, and there are already fall 2026 fashion trends you should have on your radar. But if you want to be looking your coolest this autumn, then you need to have the hottest shoes to go with your new seasonal styles.

Style coach Tami Harrigan of Exclusively Styled spoke to Glam and explained just what shoe trends we'll see all the stylish it girls wearing this season. Some are shoe aesthetics we've seen for multiple seasons now, while others have just entered the chat. One thing they all have in common is that they aren't simple, minimalist shoes that hide behind your outfit. Instead, they are bold and fun choices, meant to stand out and enhance your style even more, as fall 2026 fashion is all about authenticity and exploring textures, patterns, and silhouettes you love.

While cowboy boots have been a consistent trend for a while now, some details and styles feel more current than others. Tami Harrigan said that fall 2026 is all about the refined and sophisticated version of the timeless boot. "Western-style boots are a classic style that have been around forever," she shared exclusively with Glam. "For the fall, I'm loving the modern twist designers are incorporating to add subtle details of this classic style." The latest variations let you pepper your look with a little Western flair without going full cowboy. "Plus, you can wear them with any outfit to add some edge to your look," Harrigan adds.

If you haven't tried the cowboy boots trend because you think the shoe is too intimidating to style, this season's refined and polished version is simpler to work into your existing wardrobe. Harrigan suggests the Wyatt Knee High Western Boot by Sam Edelman and the Opal Waterproof Leather Knee High Boot by Blondo as great options. The best part? You can still rock them with breezy skirts and dresses during the warmer days and then transition your cowboy boots to work with all of your winter looks!

Fall 2026 is all about mixing contrasting aesthetics, and no shoe does it better than ballet sneakers. Flirty and feminine thanks to the dance shoe-like details, yet sporty and casual (they're still sneakers, after all), this trend has crept up on us through the years. Back in 2024, we deemed balletcore sneakers the trendy addition every warm-weather outfit needs, and according to our style expert, the fun shoes are set to take over the season.

"The ballet sneaker trend is one you should try for the fall," Tami Harrigan tells Glam exclusively. "The sleek design and satin details take its versatility up a notch, so you can effortlessly add it to your dressier outfits without sacrificing style or comfort." The best part about the shoe style? They work flawlessly with both dressier and more athletic looks. As stunning options, Harrigan suggests the Women's Moon Shoe OG Sneakers by Nike as well as the Ballet Sneakers in Satin by J.Crew.

If you're unsure how to style leopard-print fashion, we're here to tell you that animal prints are the new neutrals, and styling them is easier than you think. For fall 2026, animal print shoes are expected to be everywhere, and the fun patterns easily upgrade almost any outfit.

Tami Harrigan shares that she expects the fun design to have a moment in autumn. "Animal prints are another classic trend we see every fall," she explained. "This is a wardrobe staple that needs to be incorporated into your closet." In fact, if you're intimidated by animal-print clothing, shoes are a great way to explore the trend without making the pattern the largest part of your ensemble. "Wearing animal prints in flats or heels is an easy way to make your outfit instantly stylish without trying too hard," Harrigan says, adding, "Also try adding a pair in one of the trending silhouettes for the fall." The style coach shares that the Doreen Slingback Pump by Azalea Wang and the Mylie Ballet Flat by Madewell are among her favorites for fall 2026.

While fall 2026 calls for simplified Western boots, the trends for heels and ballet flats has shifted in the other direction. Instead of minimalism, this year it's all about dramatic details and sparkly trimming. "Statement shoes with embellishments like lace, flowers, or intricate beading are big this fall," Tami Harrigan told Glam.

While dainty, simple heels remain a timeless choice, for those who want to be hipper this fall, it's all about creating a statement with your shoes. "This trend has become popular because they allow you to express your personal style while instantly elevating your outfit," the style coach said, explaining, "Whether you decide to wear them with jeans and a sweater or with a cocktail dress, you'll turn heads. Adding a little drama and fun to your everyday life is always good." Harrigan suggests the x Betsey Johnson Mylee Sandal by Steve Madden and the Agent Sandal by Jeffrey Campbell as great high heel choices, while the Flower Ballerina Flats by C.Paravano provide an option for those who prefer a flat shoe.