Let's face it: When it comes to buying shoes, we (unfortunately) can't purchase the entire store in one go (but if you can and you got that $$$, shoutout to you). More often than not, we're looking to update our shoe closets with one... maybe two pairs of shoes. So when a new season rolls around, deciding between a statement piece and something that goes with everything always sets a trap; we either leave the store with a few pairs, no pairs, or one we're still not sure about.
With today's trends, however, that statement-or-standard-shoe debacle no longer exists. Now, matching is out the window, ugly shoes are cool, and the crazier your kicks are, the better. You can get whatever your heart desires: If it's a black lace-up bootie, go for it! If it's a baby-blue and silver pair of heels, get them!
To start, you'll find 30 on-trend shoes that are wacky, cool, and gorgeous in the slides ahead. Listen to your heart and pick a pair that works for you.
Amp up your run-of-the-mill black boot with a cool buckle.
Mango Decorative Buckle Boots, $79.99, available at Mango.
Wear different socks to customize these clear boots.
Comme des Garçons Clear & Black PVC Chelsea Boots, $545, available at SSENSE.
Asics are back!
Asics Tiger, $142.79, available at Dover Street Market.
These look as good as they feel.
Aska Ashlyn, $395, available at Aska.
Snakeskin will be big for spring, too.
Sandro Anouk Boots, $570, available at Sandro.
This easy-to-throw-on slingback will add a sleek touch to every outfit.
Cos Slingback Sandals, $125, available at Cos.
Why go for black or white converse when you can have metallic ones, instead?
Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Metallic Rubber High Top, $75, available at Nike.
Because of the chunky platform, these otherwise feminine lace-up flats have an edgy feel.
Front Row Shop Black Lace-up Chunky Platform Oxford Shoes, $92, available at Front Row Shop.
Chelsea boots are very much happening this fall. Get a white pair that will look good even when they get all scuffed up.
Dr. Martens Bianca Smooth, $140, available at Dr. Martens.
Comfy and chic.
Newbark Melanie Mule Shearling, $585, available at The Dreslyn.
Low heels have been a controversial trend. You either love 'em or hate 'em. The trend is still on for fall, so grab yourself a pair that will look good with all your jeans.
Rachel Comey Dusty, $414, available at Rachel Comey.
White sneakers might never go out of style. That said, when it comes to fall, you'll want a pair that is sturdy. This Frye option won't fall apart by the end of the season.
Frye Gemma High, $228, available at Frye.
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Ankle boots are a tried-and-true staple in the fashion enthusiast's wardrobe. (Seriously, is there anything they don't look good with?) Kick your footwear game up a notch with one of our favorite menswear-inspired trends: laces.
Rebecca Minkoff Lila Lace Up Booties 100% Bloomingdale's Exclusive, $250, available Bloomingdale’s.
We've seen plenty of designers send sky-high platforms down the runway. Get in on the trend without breaking the bank.
ASOS Ellen Platform Ankle Boots, $64.49, available at ASOS.
The only heeled take on workmen boots that gets it right.
Pierre Hardy Working Girl Ankle Boot, $795, available at Pierre Hardy.
Everyone needs a basic black sneaker this fall.
Reebok Classic Leather R13, $64.99, available at Reebok.
Get your hands on a pair of heels that are both fun and timeless.
Miu Miu Patent Leather Pumps, $890, available at Mytheresa.
You'll need a goes-with-everything ankle boot this season. This Zara pair rings in for just under $50, so you won't feel bad if (and when) they're trashed at the end of the season.
Zara Contrast High Heel Ankle Boots, $49.90, available at Zara.
These crazy sneakers will spice up plain sweaters and jeans.
Gucci Ace GG Supreme Low-top Sneaker, $535, available at Gucci.
A pop of silver never hurts.
Steve Madden Lauren, $99.95, available at Steve Madden.
These heels are sturdy enough for a long night out.
Charles & Keith Lace-up Platforms, $63.90, available at Charles & Keith.
It seems like a ton of brands are swapping out laces for velcro straps. Try a smaller brand, so you and your friends won't have the same ones (until they copy you, that is).
Kaanas Saguaro Black, $129, available at Kaanas.
There's no missing these statement heels. Wear these with low-key pieces like track pants and a tee to make them funky, not over-the-top.
Topshop Jazzy Hands Tinsel Mid Shoes, $80, available at Topshop.
Sometimes, you just want a boot that's a little bolder than black.
Vagabond Olivia Leather Boot, $175, available at Nasty Gal.
Adidas superstars are a classic, but they're more fun when they have an iridescent metal toe.
Adidas Originals Superstar 80s Metal Toe Sneakers, $148, available at The Clutcher.
Puma just keeps whipping out shoes we can't not have. These silver-and-black trainers aren't an exception.
Puma Basket Platform Metallic-leather Trainers, $91, available at Selfridges.
If you're looking for something other than classic heels this season, look no further.
Maryam Nassir Zadeh Olive Sparkle Agnes Boots, $581, available at Bona Drag.
We'd be remiss not to include an over-the-knee boot.
Loeffler Randall Ophelia Over The Knee Boots, $795, available at Loeffler Randall.
The slip-on shape is an update to a classic shoe.
Bass Wynn Mule, $100, available at Urban Outfitters.
There's no getting around the fact that this shoe is ugly, but that's the appeal. Sometimes, the uglier the shoe, the better.
Teva x Ugg Sandal, $175, available at Teva.
Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
The 5 Ways You Should Layer This Fall