I know it’s still August, but I am simply champing at the bit for some of the new fall pieces in stores now.
With that in mind, let’s talk shoes. If you’re anything like me, sometimes you can’t help but build an outfit around a sweet pair you’ve been waiting to wear; and luckily, unlike chunky sweaters and fur vests, these heels can be worn in the heat, too. Shoes, and accessories generally, are a great way to get into the fall spirit without feeling like you are wasting every last cent you spend in anticipation of seemingly far off autumn breezes.
Some of the big trends for fall? Of course, the return of ladylike dress (finally) takes center stage, but key ensemble parts are being played by utilitarian military-inspired looks, animal prints, and metallics.
For an incredibly feminine take on a conservative classic like the basic pump, try these from J. Crew. Satin and bows? Yes, Please.
Clara Platform Pumps (J. Crew, $325)
In a completely different direction: the urban guerilla. Maybe not the greatest for the streets of Kandahar, but you will definitely channel a distinctly on-trend military look with these affordable beauts.
Dolce Vita Taiz Gladiator Wedge (Nasty Gal, $88)
Animal prints are spot-on (hilarious), no matter what your price range. I’ve been wearing a delectable pair of Mossimo flats from Target in a similar print for about a year now, and I’ve also been coveting a major pair of leopard print Louboutins. Here’s an affordable option by Steve Madden. I like the rounded toe and the shorter heel to help avoid the unwanted stripper look.
Ulltra-L Leopard Pumps (Steve Madden, $89.95)
I love the idea of a splash of shiny, eye-catching goodness peeking out from your pants, but these are so beautiful why hide them at all? This metallic pump will definitely put a bit of dazzle in your step. If you aren’t feeling the trend, rest assured: these basket-weaved, Nike Air’d, Cole Haan pumps come in black patent, too.
Cole Haan Tiana Air OT Pump (Zappos.com, $208.90)
Pair of heels not what the doctor ordered? The menswear look doesn’t appear to be fading, so you can keep wearing those oxfords. Not digging that look, I, on the other hand, will wait until it’s cool enough to slip on my perennial fall favorites – my Frye Dorado riding boots.
Joie Louie Louie Oxfords (Piperlime, $225)
Annoyed knows what’s up. Great fall preview for a variety of trends that we can all start eye-ing and buying, even through the heat. Thanks Allison!
Annoyed knows what’s up. Great fall preview for a variety of trends that we can all start eye-ing and buying, even through the heat. Thanks Allison!
Hmmm…there is one pair of shoes I like in this mix, but the post seems more like “Hey, here are some shoes I like” rather than any advice for putting together an outfit, or different shoes representing a similar idea to work into a outfit. I like posts with a little more thought and structure to them…
I like the post — great overview of shoe trends for the coming season. thanx!
Ok. The interns auditioned and were selected. They now do posts as contributors instead of as potential contributors. Can we please stop the ridiculous critiques in the comments section? She wrote a post about shoes. Included some pictures, gave us an idea of what some trends are. Great! Provided me and probably others with a break from work – just what the doctor ordered. Mission accomplished.
Belle – will you please post email addresses for CJ and Alison so readers can give them writing tips via email, rather than in the comments section?
I bet money that if Belle had put her name on the intern posts that no one would judge the posts as harshly as the intern posts have been judged. CJ and Alison are not Belle – and we shouldn’t expect them to be. And yes, as a former blogger I am well aware that putting your writing and your thoughts “out there” leave you open and asking for comments – but please – enough is enough.
Let’s help these girls grow as fashion writers without publicly blasting them when you don’t particularly enjoy a post.
SO. . . the only shoe I actually like is the first one. Didn’t we remember Belle’s rant about wedges. I have finally expelled all my wedgies from my closet and can’t bear the site of another. . . 🙂
Yay for weighing in on the boots (a comment from me earlier this week)! My fall wardrobe is taking shape involving skirts & boots. Yes, I am very late to that party.
I have the same flats as you do! I love them. 🙂 I also love most of the shoes in this post, particularly the basket-weave Cole Haans.
I agreed with Annoyed — the time to comment on “potential” interns in over. Cut them some slack. They are finding their niche and writing style in these first few posts, let them. And while this may not be the way Belle would write, the interns don’t post as much so there is plenty of Belle’s posts to satisfy readers, and a fresh perspective is always a good thing in life and fashion.
But on to the shoes! As someone who usually hate gladiators, these were super cute. Nice find! And the J. crew satin pumps are adorable…if only I had the $ for them 🙁
Love the Jcrew shoes, not a fan of the gadiators. I think it’s a too literal translation of the military trend (last years gladiator, this years military, voila!). Plus, does this fit for Fall? It’s strappy and open toed? I know some women wear tights and open toed shoes, but I think this would make Belle cringe. I also can’t figure out what one would wear them with so they wouldn’t look out of place. Perhaps I just like things more classic. I have been eyeing those oxfords, I love them!
(Keep up the good work Alison!)
sarah – belle doesnt hate wedges she likes them! she just hates wedge flips flops.
I am a firm believer in supportive, constructive criticism. Chill.
For all those who like the oxfords: I really think that by this time next year, you’ll be looking at those oxfords thinking “WTF?” I know I’m thinking that now.
I agree with Annoyed..this entry was about SHOES, not about an outfit and then “Oh, look.. some shoes!” I got exactly what I needed out of this: examples of some upcoming shoe trends. I don’t need to be told what kind of outfits any of these shoes would go with as I can imagine and come up with my own ideas. I guess not everyone is style savvy..
ANYWHOOO…the gladiator wedges are fantastic! I normally hate anything in the gladiator style since they (visually) cut your leg short and since most are flat anyways, typically you look very short wearing them. The wedge obviously combats that issue, and the canvas gives the shoe more structure instead of just a bunch of straps. Great find!
Great post! Except…now I am in love with $325 pumps and must have them!!
Annoyed knows what’s up. Great fall preview for a variety of trends that we can all start eye-ing and buying, even through the heat. Thanks Allison!
I LOVE the J. Crew heels, minus the price tag.
Also, I know which leopard print flats from Target you are talking about…but I totally ruined my pair in Vegas this winter. Does anyone know where I can find a relatively cheap and versatile animal print flat?
Annoyed–If anyone wants to write the girls send the email to capitolhillstyle (at) gmail (dot) com and I will forward them on.
Ana-I totally agree. I LOVE the shoes.
As for wedges, I don’t hate all of them, but you have to have a VERY defined ankles and calves to pull them off. Low wedges work on most people though, and by low I mean 1 inch.
I can't say enough about the quality of Frye boots. I have a pair that just feel like butter. The brand might be more expensive than some but worth it for the quality (and generally timeless styles).
Agreed with Jill on the Frye boots. I have the Dorados and lived in them last year. They are still in fantastic condition and I can't wait for it to be cool enough to wear them again!
To follow up on the EXCELLENT Mossimo Leopard print flats from Target… They are still in stock and only $12.99! I highly recommend these for just about anybody (who likes flats). They are quite comfortable, practically indestructible, incredibly cheap, and a nice way to try out this whole wild animal print trend. Here's where to get them: https://www.target.com/Mossimo-Supply-Co-Odell-Ballet/dp/B0023ZYNBM/ref=br_1_4?ie=UTF8&node=3429561&searchSize=30&searchView=grid3&searchPage=1&sr=1-4&qid=1281711021&rh=&searchBinNameList=style_name%2Ctarget_com_shoe_size-bin%2Clifestyle-bin%2Ctarget_com_primary_color-bin%2Cprice%2Ctarget_com_brand-bin&searchRank=pmrank&frombrowse=1
I am ashamed to say, I wore my Mossimo leopard flats until they literally had holes in the side. Newbies – yes please! !
Also, CHS Intern – great post. And, THANK YOU for not posting clogs in the mix – they are even worse than the lady-oxford! I'm not sure WHO ramped that “trend” up again, but I've seen them in every fashion mag and even Banana Republic is excited to have them around for fall! Cold weather wardrobes will be perfectly complete sans healed clogs – bleh!