Hottest shoe trends for fall 2026: Mules, derbies and leopard print
Explore what shoes will be trendy in fall 2026 (collage: Styler)
The fall 2026 season brings a fresh take on familiar shoe styles, from understated classics to bold statement pieces.
Styler, citing Who What Wear, explains which shoe styles will be the key trends of the 2026 season and how to incorporate them into everyday outfits.
Flat mules
Mules remain one of the standout styles of the fall season. Particularly on-trend will be backless styles with flat soles, as they combine the comfort of everyday footwear with a more polished and elegant look.
These shoes are easy to incorporate into a transitional-season wardrobe. Mules can be worn with straight-leg or wide-leg pants, jeans, skirts, and knit dresses.
For a more contemporary look, opt for leather or suede, as well as styles with interesting textures.
Flat mules (photo: instagram.com/_livmadeline)
Pointed or square toes
The round toe is giving way to more distinctive shapes this season. On-trend styles include pointed-toe designs and shoes with geometric square toes, which give even a basic pair a more fashionable look.
This shape works especially well with pumps, loafers, and other minimalist footwear. The key is not to overdo the look: an unusual toe shape is already a strong enough statement on its own.
Pointed-toe styles (photo: instagram.com/sarahlouiseblythe)
Animal prints
Leopard, snakeskin, zebra, and other animal prints continue to dominate fashion in fall 2026. This season, these patterns are particularly prominent in footwear, with designers suggesting ways to use them to add personality even to a minimalist outfit.
Animal-print shoes (photo: instagram.com/rebeccaferrazwyatt)
If you're not ready to embrace bold outerwear or accessories in an animal print, footwear can be a good compromise. For example, leopard-print loafers or pumps can be paired with black pants, jeans, or a solid-color dress.
It's best to let the animal print remain the main statement. The rest of the outfit can be kept as simple as possible—this will make the look stylish rather than overwhelming.
Statement footwear for fall (photo: instagram.com/rebeccaferrazwyatt)
Oxfords and derbies
Classic lace-up shoes are once again taking center stage. Oxfords and derbies are especially relevant for those looking for a stylish alternative to sneakers without sacrificing comfort and practicality.
These styles can be worn with more than just suits. Derbies work well with wide-leg pants, jeans, skirts, and dresses. The contrast between chunkier classic footwear and feminine pieces is what helps make the look feel current.
For fall, black, brown and burgundy styles remain particularly versatile. If you want something more eye-catching, opt for a pair with an unusual texture or decorative details.
Classic footwear (photo: instagram.com/nlmarilyn)
Two-tone shoes
Another standout trend is footwear that combines two colors. This can be a classic black-and-white combination, a contrasting toe cap, or bolder color blocking.
Two-tone shoes have already appeared in collections by Chanel, Isabel Marant and Ferragamo, and in fall 2026, the trend is getting a fresh interpretation.
The advantage of this style is that it instantly adds a graphic element to an outfit. There's no need to match your clothes exactly to the shoes. It's enough for one of the colors to echo another detail in the look.
Chanel-style footwear remains on trend (photo: instagram.com/nlmarilyn)
What shoes to choose for fall 2026
Fall weather is rarely predictable: mornings can be cold, afternoons warm, and rain may start in the evening. So instead of relying on one versatile pair, it's better to have several options for different weather conditions.
Leather boots with a low-profile sole are among the most practical options for the city. They pair well with jeans, pants, and skirts, while a water-repellent membrane can help you get through a light rain.
Chelsea boots are a good choice for those who don't want to spend much time putting an outfit together. They're easy to slip on, work well with coats, trench coats and jackets, and a pair with a sturdy sole is a comfortable option for everyday trips around the city.
For rainy weather, it's worth having a pair with a membrane or waterproof upper. This is especially important if you do a lot of walking: with this type of footwear, water resistance isn't the only consideration—good ventilation and a comfortable fit matter too.
For warm, dry days, you can keep leather sneakers or sturdy trainers in your wardrobe. They're comfortable for long walks and can easily be incorporated into even a more classic outfit with a coat.
