While many are still plagued by the cold season, it’s never too early to start planning (or rather shopping) in advance. The extra time creates opportunities to complete your wardrobe and plan your outfits—this way you are guaranteed to get a lot of mileage from each trend piece as soon as the season starts. The program of discussions today includes: the shoe trends of autumn 2023, which include surprising hairy soles, pragmatic pumps and much more.

The heel of the crutch

Business at the front, party at the back, anyone? A vertical heel protruding from the sole of the foot is an easy way to raise any basic pump—one reason why we preferred this classic trend to others. On board the minimalist shoe change is the chief dealer of Moda Operandi, April Henning, who shares what she has picked up on the catwalks autumn/Winter 2023. “I noticed the feeling of portability and lightness that could be seen in New York, Milan and Paris, which was a testament to the convincing balance of creativity and sophistication that echoed on the catwalks.”

Moccasins, Brogues Meet

Brogues are the next in the hot seat for anyone looking for a higher approach to comfort. This thirst for minimalism is partly out of necessity, as our hybrid workforce is getting rid of sweatpants and slippers. Once used to drain water from shoes (hence the perforated piping), the revival of BROGUE clothing is a welcome middle ground between sneakers and pumps. Tiffany Hsu, fashion shopping director of Mytheresa, even called it “a great casual option to replace sneakers this fall.”It looks like we have a consensus—richelieu and other missed boy apartments are there. You can expect our editors to take this kick, namely from the Row and APC.

Smooth pumps
Pumps became famous in the 50s thanks to such starlets as Audrey Hepburn, Dorothy Dandridge and Marilyn Monroe. On the autumn / winter 2023 catwalk, the slingback gave way to caramel brown and butter yellow undertones. The extended toe area (that is, the area around the toes) and the strap ankle take shape in both soft and patent leather and are important design notes in which we invest.

While Chanel and Dior give the slingback a classic appeal, Givenchy and Marni make it cool again. Thick hardware, structural cuts and overlays with stockings are the additional details that are driving this trend in the current decade.

Loose boots
The loose boot is a must-have for bohemian wardrobes and remains a dominant trend in autumn shoes. Inspired by the casual style of the 60s, these boots traditionally go with flowing dresses and blouses. Brands such as Chloé and Céline update this boot that manipulates the daily textures of leather and suede to create a crease effect along the leg.
The loose upper is a must for those who need a silhouette with a wide calf. Our editors are looking forward to wearing this refreshment with straight jeans, blazers and knitted dresses.