Outdated Shoe Trends To Walk Away From For Fall 2026

Building the perfect capsule wardrobe requires a solid suite of shoe options. This fall, there are so many good ones to choose from — truly, the world is your oyster. On the other hand, we hate to be the bearer of bad news, but be that we shall. Katie Schuppler, professional fashion stylist and founder of KS Style Consulting, tells Glam exclusively that there are a few outdated shoe trends that need to stay firmly in the past as we move into the fall 2026 season. 

She shared a few key styles to avoid, because while these looks aren't inherently bad, Schuppler says they've already had their time to shine. "These are all styles that have been around now for a few years, and I think they have been played out," she tells us. "People are looking to change it up with some fresh and different styles!" For our shortlist of outdated shoe trends to, quite literally, walk away from for fall 2026 and what to try instead, take a look ahead.

Chunky sneakers have been one of the most fashionable shoe trends in recent years, with many reviving nostalgic Princess Diana-inspired looks. While they go perfectly with an oversized sweater, crop tops, leggings, shorts, or even jeans, Katie Schuppler says these are a no-go for fall 2026. "Chunky dad sneakers have been in style for the past few years, but we are giving them a break and swapping them out for more sleek styles," she shares in our exclusive chat. 

A few sleeker options include slimmer, foot-hugging sneaker styles. Think Adidas' Samba OG Shoe or Puma's Speedcat OG Sneaker. These shoes are lighter and more practical, because though chunky sneakers look cool, they can lean heavy and might be a lot to walk in if you'll be standing for hours or running around all day. For something unexpected, Schuppler also says to try a bolder sneaker. "I am loving the metallic sneaker trend for something a little more stand-out and fun," she adds.

The wedge sneaker was initially made popular by Isabel Marant, who started a 2011 frenzy with her cult-loved Bekett Sneakers. However, while there was a time and place for this style — and we loved it back in the day — Katie Schuppler has thoughts. She even equates them to our favorite popular girl group of the '90s. "The Spice Girl-style wedge sneakers are also out of style this fall season," she tells Glam. 

This doesn't mean that wedges are out altogether. Regular wedges are flattering and still work great for special occasions and other events. You'll just want to avoid ones that have laces or Velcro straps — sorry Isabel Marant fans! Instead, we're seeing structured wedges with an artistic flair trending for fall. Bright colors and unique platform designs are the name of the game here. If you want to get in on this, you can try Reformation's Natasha Wedge or the Schutz Maya Leather Sandals.

Katie Schuppler was very clear about a certain popular UGG style and where it belongs (or doesn't belong) in your closet. "Thick-heeled UGGs, although comfy, are out of style this fall season," she shares in our exclusive chat. While these were fun to style in the past and work nicely for colder weather, it's time to give them a rest. Honestly, we know shoes like this can be hard to give up, especially because they're so comfy and easy to run errands in, so we'll recommend some other styles sans platform. UGG's Classic Slipper is a great option, or if you need a good winter shoe, the Clugette Genuine Shearling Clog will keep your feet cozy. 

On the other hand, if you're done with UGGs altogether, sock boots are on the rise this year, and the weather is finally cooling off enough for us to wear them. These pair well with an oversized coat, tailored pants, or slouchy jeans.

While loafers aren't out altogether, New York-based stylist Marina Ingvarsson told InStyle that there's a specific kind that won't cut it this fall. Lug-sole loafers were huge a few years ago, and we've seen them styled gorgeously, but their time in the sun is over. "[That style] had a great run over the past couple of falls, but the mood has shifted toward something sleeker and lighter underfoot," she shared. Ingvarsson also agreed that loafers in general are still totally wearable; you just might want to try something with reduced bulk. "Less is more with a good loafer," she explained. "The shoe should be doing the talking, not the styling around it."

If you do still want to try a good loafer this season, Quince's Italian Leather Soft Loafer or Madewell's Dolli Glove Loafer are perfect options. They go with everything from a peacoat to tapered jeans, skirts, tights, scarves—basically everything in your fall wardrobe.