MomSkoop
Fashion moves fast, and what worked last season might not make the cut this fall. Professional stylists are leaving certain shoe styles behind as they embrace fresher, more wearable options. If you’re wondering which pairs to skip and what to wear instead, you’re in the right place.
1. Ultra-Chunky Platform Sneakers
Platform sneakers had their glory days, but the extreme versions now look more costume than cool. Those sky-high soles that made everyone a few inches taller are feeling heavy and outdated as fall fashion leans toward sleeker silhouettes.
Stylists recommend trading them for retro-inspired court sneakers or classic tennis styles instead. These options still give you that sporty edge without the clunky bulk.
Think clean lines, subtle branding, and a shape that works with everything from jeans to midi skirts, keeping your look polished and current.
2. Overly Distressed Boots
Remember when scuffed, slouchy boots screamed effortless cool? Those days are fading fast. The intentionally beat-up look that once felt lived-in now just appears worn out and sloppy against this season’s cleaner aesthetic.
Fashion pros suggest swapping them for structured riding boots or smooth knee-highs with defined shapes. These alternatives bring sophistication and intention to your outfit.
3. Skinny Stiletto Booties
Paper-thin stiletto booties feel out of sync with fall’s cozy, grounded wardrobe. They’re tricky to walk in and create a visual disconnect when paired with chunky knits and relaxed tailoring that dominate this season.
Block-heeled or sculptural booties offer the perfect solution. You still get height and elegance, but with actual stability and modern appeal.
Geometric heel shapes and architectural designs add visual interest without sacrificing comfort. Your feet (and your chiropractor) will thank you.
4. Over-the-Knee Boots with High Heels
Thigh-high boots with spindly heels dominated runways for years, but their reign is ending. They feel overly dramatic and impractical for everyday fall dressing.
Flat or low-heeled knee boots in buttery materials are taking over. Suede and soft leather versions that hit right at the knee pair beautifully with dresses, skirts, and slim pants while keeping things approachable.
5. Strappy Sandals
Delicate strappy heels belong to warmer months and breezy evenings. They clash with fall’s layered, textured aesthetic and leave your feet exposed when temperatures drop.
Chunky loafers, substantial mules, or ankle boots ground your outfit properly for autumn. These closed-toe options complement sweaters, trousers, and coats while providing actual coverage.
Save those sandals for spring and embrace footwear that matches the mood.
6. Logo-Heavy Designer Slides
Walking billboards are officially out. Those slides covered in oversized logos and monograms feel stuck in summer 2022, when flexing labels mattered more than actual style. The trend has cooled considerably as fashion shifts toward quiet luxury.
Minimalist slides in warm-toned suede or smooth leather deliver sophistication without shouting. Look for subtle details like tonal stitching or understated hardware instead of in-your-face branding.
7. Chunky Combat Boots (With Overly Thick Soles)
Super-chunky combat boots with exaggerated soles are stepping aside. While they brought edge and attitude, the punk-inspired versions now feel costume-like rather than casually cool for everyday wear.
Streamlined lace-up boots with refined soles strike a better balance. They maintain that rebellious spirit but with grown-up sophistication.
Slimmer profiles and moderate tread patterns work better with tailored pants and structured coats. You get the edgy vibe without looking like you’re heading to a music festival.
8. Ultra-Pointy Toe Pumps
Dramatically pointy pumps are losing ground to softer shapes. Those needle-sharp toes feel severe and dated, making them harder to style with current relaxed tailoring and fluid silhouettes dominating fall fashion.
Almond or soft squared-toe pumps maintain elegance without the harsh edge. They’re easier to wear all day and transition seamlessly from office meetings to evening plans.
9. Clog Hybrids
Quirky clog-platform mashups had their experimental moment, but the novelty is wearing thin. These unusual hybrids feel more gimmicky than genuinely stylish as fashion returns to recognizable, wearable silhouettes.
Classic wooden-soled clogs with subtle details or chunky loafers deliver similar comfort with more staying power. They offer that same easy-meets-chic appeal without looking like a design experiment gone wrong.
10. Overly Embellished Heels
Crystal-covered stilettos dripping with hardware had their party moment. But for everyday fall style, they’re impractical and visually overwhelming. All those embellishments compete with your outfit instead of complementing it.
Rich textures like suede, croc embossing, or metallic leather provide interest without the chaos. These materials make quieter statements that feel luxurious and intentional.
True elegance whispers rather than shouts, especially when building a functional fall wardrobe.