We are just a few days from the Labor Day weekend, and soon we will all be packing away the looks of summer to make room for the first wave of fall fashion. And while some of the fashion laws of yesteryear tend to find themselves in the history books of our minds (Ahem… You actually might still be able to pull-off that pair of white shoes post Labor Day.), there are definitely things to keep top-of-mind while prepping your post-summer wardrobe. When it comes to shoes, in particular, the smart thing would be to start thinking about where to store those sandals or summer-casual lace-ups, though you may still be able to pull them off as the warmth lingers on for at least the next month. But be ready to energize your fall foot repertoire with some serious style.
With fall comes the return of the boot. From tall lace-ups to ankle-height Chelsea boots, the range of styles for early fall are immense. But it’s best not to get over-zealous and bust out the shearling just yet. Transitional style is often calm and cool… and this should be no different when it comes to choosing the right boot for the season.
This season I have my eye on the brogue boot. The brogues, or wingtips, have dominated the men’s shoe scene for the past few years, and the boot version has steadily shuffled its way to the forefront. Style savvy men have embraced the boot nicely, and its versatile nature adds to its overall appeal. Cleanly laced up, the boots could pair well with suit trousers and a jacket. But loosen them up a bit, you can tuck-in a pair of skinny jeans into the boot for a more relaxed look. Andrew Marc’s Hillcrest boot would make an excellent addition to any man’s foot parade for the season. The slimmed rounded toe and 1-inch heel make for a sleek, smart look.
Andrew Marc Hillcrest Boot, $248.95, available at shoes.com
For those more casual days (or nights), you can give your classic Chucks a rest (Unless you have invested in the newest incarnation of the shoe.). And who says that you can’t wear a white shoe post-Labor Day? Style, as they say, is a frame of mind after all, and not exactly a law of nature. (Although there are some basic DOs and DON’Ts that must be adhered to at all times. I shouldn’t even have to list any of those for you…) The suede panel sneakers from COS, for example, are an interesting choice for fall. Following the color-block style that has popped up in tees, sweaters and even pants in the last few seasons, these shoes are fun and modern. The white leather is accented by a black suede contrast panel at the heel of the shoe. Admittedly, not everyone may be able to pull these off. But for those who dare try, it’s a fashion risk worth taking.
COS Suede Panel Sneakers, $115, available at cosstores.com
And then for those times when you feel a bit edgier than normal, the Styx Boot from Allsaints is the perfect fusion of customary construction and forward-looking stylishness. Tweed, for me, is the quintessential fabric for fall, and the boot’s tweed paneling adds dramatic texture. The central zip opening and closure add a modern flair to this boot, which would match perfectly with skinny blue, gray or black jeans, or a pair of cropped trousers. Throw on a fitted tee and a cardigan, and you have an easy yet edgy fall look.
Allsaints Styx Boot, $340, available at us.allsaints.com