From playful, animal-printed heels to sleek thigh-high boots, Vogue Scandinavia rounds up the most sought-after autumn shoe trends to know and shop now
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Each autumn, one quintessential item claims a top spot in our shopping lists: a standout pair of shoes. More than just footwear, autumn shoes often anchor our seasonal style – ideally rendered in robust materials like leather, suede, or one of the key trends of the season: horse-hair-textured animal print.
Whether you gravitate towards flats or heels, we’ve narrowed down seven distinct styles that have emerged as this season’s shoedrobe must-haves – perfect for those crisp days when the air cools and leaves begin to turn. Think sleek, thin-heeled ankle boots to elevate your office look, chunky brogues for a dash of dark academia, knee-highs that pair perfectly with your favourite skirts and animal prints to inject a dose of playfulness. Read on for the autumn shoes worth investing in, curated by Vogue Scandinavia’s fashion team.
Ankle boots
Step up your shoe game this autumn with petite-heeled ankle boots that strike the perfect balance of keeping your feet warm and staying fashion-forward. As versatile as a Swiss Army knife, this style pairs effortlessly with everything from relaxed jeans and sweaters to refined frocks, making it our go-to piece when transitioning our wardrobe from summer to autumn. A real shoe-in if you ask us.
Leather loafers
These leather loafers are ideal for when you’re dressing for the office and after-work, without missing a beat. From the classic penny style to more streamlined numbers, this edit has your loafer-fix covered. Easy to style with everything from tailored trousers to flowy skirts, they’re a true wardrobe workhorse. The best part? Just slip them on and go – no need to tie yourself up in knots with laces.
Brogues
We love brogues for both their dapper look and impressing versatility – they have a knack for elevating an ensemble without making it seem like you’re trying too hard. While they are sturdy enough to handle autumn’s fickle forecasts, they don’t skimp on style, lending a touch of old-school charm. Whether you’re heading to a meeting or grabbing a coffee, the brogue will let you stride through the season with a little extra pep in your step.
Related articles: The 20 best knee-high boots to invest in this autumn
Animal printed shoes
This autumn, we’re taking a walk on the wild side, and animal-printed shoes are the best way to add some pizzazz to your look – especially if your cold-weather attire tends to embrace a darker palette. A secret weapon in your styling arsenal, an animal-printed shoe will instantly transform a minimalist look into one that roars with personality. Whether you prefer leopard, snake or zebra motifs, these neutral-toned patterns offer an elegant twist and pair with a variety of colours and styles.
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Chelsea boots
What makes Chelsea boots – the classic autumn staple – stand out is their sleek, fuss-free design. No laces to fiddle with, just clean lines and handy elastic panels that make slipping them on and off a breeze. The ankle-high silhouette is perfect for the season, offering just the right amount of coverage, while their snug fit and solid soles ensure all-day comfort, whether you’re strolling through the city or taking a scenic walk in nature.
Knee-high boots
Knee-high boots truly stand tall in the footwear world, offering features that shorter styles simply can’t match. Not only do they create a polished, elongated silhouette that helps elevate just about any outfit, they’re also highly practical, covering more ground (literally) when it comes to staying warm. Pair them with a skirt (and stockings if it's chilly) or tuck in a pair of skinny jeans – this style adds the splash of drama your autumn wardrobe might be missing.
Related articles: The 20 best knee-high boots to invest in this autumn
Moto boots
Moto boots are non-negotiable when revving up your autumn outfits. Loved by all our favourite cool girls, from Hailey Bieber to Bella Hadid, these boots, adorned with chunky soles and hardware buckles, add a hint of rugged edge. When styling your pair, we recommend playing with contras: try teaming them with something more soft and feminine, like a flowy dress or a silky skirt, balancing the tough with the tender. They also work well with skinny jeans or even leather trousers if you’re aiming for a more streamlined look.
