I Like Timeless Shoes, But I'm Standing Behind These 7 Fall Micro-Trends

While I like my accessories trend-forward, I have to admit I'm a bit boring when it comes to my shoes. Maybe boring isn't quite the word, but I like to keep the footwear in my rotation quite minimalist and straight to the point. I opt for timeless silhouettes and elevated classics that go with everything in my closet. Some days, though, after I scroll too far on Instagram, I'll find myself lusting after a hyper-specific, incredibly niche footwear trend I set my heart on. Enter stage left the six fall shoe micro-trends that have been altering my brain chemistry since I saw them.

In lieu of my basic black ankle booties and simple leather flats, these seven footwear trends are sure to make waves this season. If you're looking to spice up your footwear drawer, look no further. Below, scroll for the best fall footwear micro-trends fashion people can't seem to put down.

Mesh Madness

While mesh flats have been living in my head rent-free since summer, it's only now that styles are hitting the market. Whether you're traveling somewhere warm this winter or opting to wear the see-through style with a pair of tights, mesh footwear is the underground, if-you-know-you-know style trend fashion people are continuing to back this year.

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Pretty Things

If you can't tell, we love adorable, swoon-worthy details here at Who What Wear. Whether it's oversize bows or dainty rosettes, these pretty, delicate embellishments on shoes are some of the sweetest things you can buy this fall and beyond.

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Shimmer and Sparkle

Maybe the New Year's Eve influence has come a little earlier than usual, but everyone I know is under the spell of crystal- and sequin-adorned shoes. From rhinestone-encrusted ballet flats to dramatic paillette slingbacks, this shimmery shoe trend has to be one of the most showstopping of the year.

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Sharp Soles

Pointed-toe slingbacks were all the rage throughout the first half of 2023, but now, as the colder weather settles in, fashion people are turning to ultra-sharp, extra-pointed boots to carry them through the chilly months. Opt to wear the trend-forward style under a pair of baggy jeans for a cool-girl-approved look.

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Fur-Ever Love

Okay, while this might be the most unapproachable shoe trend the industry has seen in a minute, I can't deny I'm already thinking of the outfit combinations (and, of course, jokes) stemming from this unexpected, controversial footwear trend. If you're looking for a dramatic effect, an allover fur moment might be best, but if you're opting for something subtler, buy a simple, sleek shoe with pony-hair fabric instead. Either way, these are sure to make a statement.

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Shiny Things

While ultra-shiny, patent leather can feel scary to pull off at first, French girls have slowly been bringing the '90s style back en vogue. Nothing looks chicer than simple, sleek patent-leather kitten heels or shiny leather loafers for the office.

Kiddie-Core

While Mary Janes and matching, whimsical socks have been around for the last few months, the colorful, eye-catching style is back on my radar for the fall and winter. Opt for statement socks and simple, yet fun fun Mary Janes or ballet flats to achieve the look.