10 Pairs of Shoes You Need This Fall

Top Row (L-R): Hunter / Tory Burch / Sole Society / Sam Edleman

Middle Row (L-R): L.L. Bean Boots / BC Footwear / Toms

Bottom Row (L-R): Sperry / Jack Rogers / Sole Society

I was shopping with my mom this weekend and spent a good deal of time in the shoe department (aka heaven) at Bloomingdales. After checking out the new fall styles in stores I went online to compile a list of the 10 shoes every girl needs in her closet this fall:

1. A good pair of rainboots. These are pretty much a need year round, however in the fall it starts to get chillier so wet feet are a big no-no. These babies will keep your toes warm through those rainy fall days. Also, grab a boot liner to keep your feet extra toasty as the weather gets cooler.

2. Brown leather riding boots. These are a classic for a reason. A good pair of leather riding boots can last you years if you take care of them properly. Be sure to weatherproof the leather and take the shoes to a reputable a cobbler once the soles begin to wear out (I typically take mine in the summer to get them ready for the season). It usually costs about $45-$80 to replace full sole, but that is much cheaper than buying a new pair of $100 leather boots every season which won't be as high quality. However, there are so many great options out there at all different price points. Like this pair for $70 or this one for $140. I have wanted a pair of Tory Burch, Rag and Bone, or Frye riding boots for years. They remain on my wishlist...maybe this Christmas! 

3. Gray Suede boots. Suede is totally in this fall and a pair of gray OTK (over-the-knee) boots is a great way to have a versatile, yet trendy, item in your closet. They match navy blue OR black outfits. Perfect for weekend outings, running errands, or going out with friends.

4. Black leather boots - much like #3, black leather boots are a classic for a reason. I'm currently in the market to replace my pair, and the Penny boot by Sam Edleman might be the winner. They looks so chic with a little mini skirt on the weekends, or if you have a dressier pair you can even wear them to work with jeans on a casual Friday. A must for any well stocked closet.

5. Bean boots. Last year these blew up and were backordered from November until basically June. So if you don't have a pair yet, order NOW. They are all handmade so L.L. Bean literally can't just crank out more if demand gets as high as it did last year. I've had my pair for a few years and they are perfect for fall days. I wear mine with J Crew camp socks and skinny jeans. I have the 6" boots and I bought them a size down from my normal size as they run big. If you're between sizes I'd suggest sizing down. I think the 6" size is good for those who are not living in areas that get extreme amounts of snow but still want some coverage on their ankles in the winter. My brother goes to college in Pittsburgh and he has the 8" boots with Thinsulate and swears by them for walking to classes in the harsh Pittsburgh winters. 

6. Basic brown booties - A pair of basic brown booties as an essential transitional piece for fall. If you don't already have a pair, do yourself a favor and order some from Zappos or Nordstrom (free shipping both ways, hey) immediately. These are your go-to shoes for September and October, while the weather is too cold for sandals but you're not quite ready to put on your riding boots every day. Also I love wearing booties when going out with friends on the weekends. 

7. Desert boot wedges - The desert boot is another great transitional fall style. I especially love classic desert boots on the boys all through the fall season. For women, I like the play on the classic style by adding a wedge for a feminine touch. Toms has a great selection of cute desert boots right now, go scoop up a pair now and you'll be so happy when you're wearing them out all October! I was also recently turned onto to these Hush Puppies Chukkas by Kelly and Sydney (two of my favorite bloggers) and I think they'd be a really cute option to fill this place in your wardrobe as well!

8. Loafers - A classic loafer is really a must over for a well balanced wardrobe in all seasons. I especially like wearing my loafers during the fall with a cute plaid mini skirt. The perfect fall "preppy" shoe. Sperry has some great waterproof options, which make them even better for wearing while commuting to and from work or school

9. Leopard print flats - in my book, leopard is a neutral. I love that you can wear leopard print with brown or black outfits, making it a very versatile print. A good pair of leopard flats will get so much wear because they can be worn at work, running errands, grabbing drinks, or pretty much anywhere in-between. Jack Rogers introduced this pair this year and I am obsessed. Scalloped, leopard, orsay flats? Check. Check. Check.

10. Plaid Pumps - it wouldn't be a fall clothing list without a pop of plaid. While I'd love these Prada plaid flats, something tells me the Sole Society pair above would be a little gentler on my budget. Just think how cute these would look with a chunky cable knit sweater and a pair of skinny jeans.

Any other shoes you think need to be added to this list? What are your favorite shoes to wear in the fall? I'd love to get some suggestions of what to add to my collection!

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