Best Shoes for the Season: Fall/Winter Shoe Capsule Staples 2025
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When the temperatures drop, having the right shoes makes all the difference. The best shoes for fall and winter aren’t just about staying warm, they’re the pairs that pull every outfit together while keeping your wardrobe versatile.
The Essential Fall/Winter Shoe Capsule
This season is all about building a curated mix that works for every occasion. From ankle boots and loafers to sneakers, shearling styles, and heels, these are the pairs that ground a fall/winter capsule wardrobe and carry you through every occasion with ease.
The Best Shoes to Carry You Through the Season
Ahead, discover the best shoes to wear this fall/winter.
1. Ankle & Chelsea Boots
Few shoes are as essential for the colder months as ankle and Chelsea boots. Timeless and versatile, they slip easily into both casual and polished looks, working just as well with jeans and knits as with dresses and coats.
Their ability to move seamlessly from day to night makes them a foundation piece in any fall and winter shoe capsule.
2. Knee-High & Riding Boots
Knee-high boots are a cold-weather staple, adding structure and elegance to everything from skirts and dresses to slim pants. Riding styles lean timeless and refined, while biker-inspired versions bring a tougher edge that feels fresh for the season.
Balancing classic appeal with trend-driven details, they remain a key piece in any fall and winter shoe capsule.
3. Trending Boots: Slouchy, Cowboy & Western
Slouchy, cowboy, and western boots bring a statement edge to fall wardrobes. This season they’re tied to the boho-chic aesthetic making a comeback, with relaxed shapes, earthy tones, and fringe details leading the way.
These boots are less about being everyday staples and more about adding personality, giving outfits a stylish twist that feels fresh for fall and winter.
4. Loafers & Boat Shoes
Loafers are a polished staple for fall, offering a balance between casual comfort and tailored style. They work just as well with jeans as they do with office-ready looks, making them a versatile pick for the season. Alongside classic and chunky versions, boat shoes are also coming into focus, adding a preppy touch that feels easy and timeless.
Together, these styles bring structure and refinement to a fall/winter shoe wardrobe without sacrificing wearability.
5. Ballet Flats & Mary Janes
Ballet flats and Mary Janes continue to dominate as a go-to option for fall. They’re comfortable, feminine, and easy to style, making them a natural choice for both casual and polished outfits.
From simple slip-ons to strap details, these shoes add a touch of elegance to everyday looks and balance out heavier cold-weather layers with something light and classic.
6. Sneakers
Sneakers are the easy go-to for fall, and 2025 is all about mixing classics with fresh twists. Suede finishes and neutral tones keep them versatile, while vintage and retro-inspired styles add that laid-back edge.
Statement pairs are also trending, with animal prints giving way to bold reds, and even soft pastels are emerging as a playful alternative.
7. Cozy & Shearling Styles (UGGs, Clogs & Slip-Ons)
Cozy shoes take center stage once the weather cools, and this season they’re more stylish than ever. UGGs, shearling-lined clogs, and easy slip-ons blend comfort with a laid-back aesthetic that fits perfectly into fall and winter.
They’re the shoes you reach for on casual days, bringing warmth and ease while still feeling on trend.
8. Evening Heels
Evening heels bring a polished finish to fall/winter wardrobes, balancing out the season’s cozy layers with something sleek and refined. From dinners to nights out, they’re the pair that instantly dress up an outfit, making them a timeless addition alongside more casual fall shoes.
And if you’re looking to complete your closet, don’t miss the full fall/winter capsule wardrobe for even more seasonal inspiration.
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