Shoes are the backbone of the fashion industry, with worldwide revenue predicted to exceed $700 billion in 2026 alone. They’re practical, of course, but footwear has the ability to transform an outfit like no other accessory can. Providing a confidence boost that quite literally helps you carry yourself better. They’re a way to experiment with prints and colours you may not be used to, helping you ease into trends that are outside your comfort zone. Plus, it’s one hell of a dopamine rush buying pretty shoes.
With that in mind, you may be wondering which shoes are worth buying for the upcoming season. The good news is most of the top footwear trends for fall 2026 are simply fresher iterations of classic shapes you likely already own – from court shoes to knee-high boots. But if you are looking to revamp your shoe-drobe, below are the best shoe trends to get ahead of this Fall.
T-Strap
Images Courtesy of Dior, Givenchy
Let’s just say this is one shoe trend that I did not expect to see the return of in 2026, but one look at the Dior Fall 2026 collection and my mind was instantly changed for the better. The style has fallen out of popularity over the last few years, with other sandal trends such as sliders and thongs stealing the limelight. Yet, there is something so chic and timeless about a T-Strap sandal that it’s hard to imagine why the trend ever went away. Of course, the Dior designs with the floral embellishments are at the top of my wishlist, but Givenchy’s variations with tactile trims are also proving why this is a top trend.
Court Shoes
Images Courtesy of Dior, Gucci, Louis Vuitton
A classic for a reason, the court heel continues to reign supreme as a top shoe trend for 2026. Timeless designs walked the runway at Gucci, featuring the house’s signature Horsebit detail, while Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Jil Sander showed fresh takes in bold colours and finishes. And Dior blends two top trends in one with everyone’s current favourite, polka dot making its way to pumps.
Dainty Sneakers
Images Courtesy of Fendi, Simone Rocha
Goodbye chunky soles, this is the era of dainty sneakers. Low-profile, slimmer designs (think Puma Speedcat or adidas Taekwondo) have officially made it to the runway. We first saw this trend creeping in at Miu Miu for SS26; now for Fall, the pared-back silhouette is back. Both Fendi and Simone Rocha showed this new minimal and flattering design in refreshingly brighter shades that keep them from feeling too simple.
Knee High Boots
Images Courtesy of Gucci, McQueen
A forever favourite for Fall, and thankfully, knee-high boots are not going anywhere this season. The boots shown by Demna at Gucci were some of my favourites, covered entirely in the brand’s signature monogram. Retro-inspired designs were seen at McQueen with a square toe and trompe-l’œil construction that creates the illusion of two styles in one for an added bonus!
Kitten Heels
Images Courtesy of Proenza Schouler, Tory Burch, TOD’s
Marking the fashion industry’s continued shift towards comfort, kitten heels remain a popular footwear choice for designers. Offering both elegance and a heel height that you can actually last all day in, it’s unsurprising that this shoe trend returns season after season. Pointed-toe designs were a standout on the runway – seen at Proenza Schouler and Tory Burch. While Tod’s loafer-inspired style would make the perfect workwear shoe.
Corsetry-Inspired Details
Images Courtesy of McQueen, Prada
I just love a statement shoe, so the corsetry-inspired details seen on stilettos and knee-high boots at Marni, Prada, and McQueen were right up my street. The designs mimic the look of a traditional corset and offer a vintage charm without being too over-the-top. This trend would look particularly great when styled with a romantic floral dress or peeking out from underneath jeans.
Wedge Heels
Images Courtesy of Sportmax, Louis Vuitton, McQueen
A controversial one, but wedge heels are another footwear trend making their return in 2026. This time, however, the designs are seemingly more streamlined and less clunky. Sportmax and Louis Vuitton showed minimal yet timeless variations. While McQueen’s designs were more a wedge-come-kitten heel and finished with corsetry detailing, showcasing the brand’s ability to forever be ahead of the curve by mixing three trends in one.
Fluffy Faux Fur
Images Courtesy of Simone Rocha, Bottega Veneta
If Bottega Veneta and Simone Rocha are anything to go by, fluffy, faux-fur shoes are the next big thing. Likely one to draw mixed opinions, but hey, if it’s acceptable to wear faux fur as a coat or scarf, why should this not extend to your feet? We are seeing tactile finishes more and more, and if there is ever a time to explore this trend, it’s in the autumn.