The Best Shoes to Wear at Every Fashion Week This Fall

The perfect outfit during NYFW should have you looking incredibly chic and feeling extremely comfortable. Why, you may ask? Doesn’t comfort come in second in fashion? Well, not in this case. Since most big-name designers show their collections in different locations all around Manhattan (and Brooklyn, sometimes), chances are you will be running up and down the city all day.

That’s why you need a shoe that’s equal parts street style- and feet-friendly. And this stylish pump by The Row is a winner in both categories. The velvet and sateen combination in classic black is luxurious and understated while the bow-tie is what makes the shoe stand out. And the best part? The heel is less than two inches high.

Shop: $795

Sneakers are really having a moment among the fashion pack right now. And it’s a particular kind of kicks that’s everyone wearing—the old school “dad” sneaker.

So if you identify your style more as downtown chic and your uniform consists of a pair of Vêtement jeans and a cool top, then you are going to love this re-invented version of the classic 90s Air Max 97 SE sneaker.

It’s updated with corduroy details and vibrant pops of color, but you’re still getting the signature 90s high-sole silhouette.  

Shop: $170

There really is no other shoe that symbolizes New York style better than Common Projects’ “The Achilles” leather sneaker—timeless, minimalist and stylish. And the brand’s success is a testament that their shoes transcend trends. With no advertising, fancy social media or marketing campaigns, Common Projects’ shoes became a staple during fashion week and everyone, from editors to celebrities, is wearing their gold-stamped kicks.

Functionality is key—you can be at a runway show in Brooklyn in the afternoon and attend a party uptown in the evening, and you won’t need to make a stop for a shoe change.

The Achilles was actually the brand’s first ever style, released in 2004, that to this day is a best-seller. It’s made in Italy from full grain leather and has leather linings and rubber soles.

Shop: $430

Of all fashion capitals, London is probably the one with the most creative spirit in a purely non-commercial way. Young designers often make the news with their innovative techniques and out-of-the-box designs. Having said that, London is London and whether you come here for the spring or fall shows, chances are you will need a rain-proof pair of footwear to brace the weather.

And nobody does London chic better than Burberry. This pair of Italian-made leather booties has it all—a classic silhouette with a touch of edgy thanks to the see-through chunky heel.

Shop: $890

Harrys of London is a brand that’s known for relying heavily on technology and innovation when it comes to construction without losing that classic old school London charm reflected in their designs. And these chukka boots are the embodiment of this philosophy.

Crafted in Italy from beige suede, they are lined with soft leather and have anti-slip Vibram rubber soles that will keep your feet dry.

And since we mentioned the brand’s affinity to new technologies, these boots have 3D innersoles that adapt to the shape of your feet to deliver maximum comfort and relieve pressure.

Shop: $270

 Most Italians seem to have a perfect sense style running through their veins. Of course, nowhere is this more obvious than Milan. Design aside, though, Italians, above all, recognize quality, especially when it comes to leather accessories and shoes—a competitive industry that has given birth to now iconic luxury brands like Bottega Veneta, Salvatore Ferragamo, and Prada.

That’s why when strolling in the streets of Milan during fashion week, your shoes will be your strongest style asset.

Opt for a pair of loafers by another heritage brand—Gucci. These beauties have a square-toe silhouette and chunky heels embellished with ivory faux pearls. The company’s gold-tone metal “GG” logo together with its signature red and navy stripes adorn the vamps.

Shop: $1,150

If there was an award given to the most stylish men in the world, Italians would surely win it. So, gentlemen, if you’re heading to Milan Fashion Week this season take your style cues from your Italian counterparts and you are sure to have a group of street style photographers lining up to snap your picture.

These Ferragamo loafers in navy suede and rubber soles will complement perfectly a sharp pants and shirt combo. This style is the perfect example of the brand’s commitment to impeccable quality and understated luxury.

If you are feeling adventurous, you may even try to pull off no-socks look—something that, again, Italians are very fond of.

Shop: $595

The Paris shows are always the most anticipated ones during fashion month. Maybe it’s because the oldest and most prestige houses like Dior, Chanel, Balenciaga, and Lanvin show their latest collections there or maybe it’s just because the City of Lights has always been known as the fashion capital of the world and as such keeps attracting new and exciting talent to its runways. So if you will be rubbing elbows on Avenue Montaigne or in Le Grand Palais with the coolest and most elegant women in the industry, pack a pair of red-soled Christian Louboutins.

The designer’s Rosas 85 pumps are the epitome of Parisian chic. These strappy pointy-toe beauties are crafted from luxurious velvety suede that also covers most of its stiletto heel. Whether you pair them with a silk shirt and a pencil skirt or a power suit, these pumps are sure to turn eyes (and cameras) after you.

Shop: $895

While a lot has been said and written about the style of French women, in our opinion their male counterparts deserve just as much attention and praise for their impeccable fashion choices. And it all starts with the shoes.

For a versatile and elegant look, opt for a pair of monk-straps. French men love that style because you can dress it down with a pair of indigo jeans or up with pants and a shirt.

This pair by Officine Creative comes in rich, brown suede and has a double monk-strap fastening. They ooze a vintage vibe and fall in the statement shoe category. Of course, whatever you end up styling them with, don’t forget to wear a scarf—a staple in any French man’s wardrobe.

Shop: $650