I appreciate that the first week of September can almost feel like a mourning period for many; a sad farewell to a summer that treated us to sunshine, beach days and plenty of adventure. However, I'm also a big proponent of ripping off the proverbial Band-Aid, and the best way I can think to do that is to jump on the autumn bandwagon and unpack my fall wardrobe.
I'm not talking chunky sweaters and scarves just yet, but there's nothing wrong with switching up our footwear game to start. That's why we tapped InStyle editor-in-chief Sally Holmes to give us the down-low on the best sneaker trends we'll be seeing on the streets and sidewalks this season. Prepare for a ton of vintage looks, the resurgence of the "dad" shoe, animal prints and plenty of accessories.
If you're ready to throw your sandals and flip-flops aside, check out our favorite picks for fall to wear on those cooler days ahead.
Best sneakers for fall seen on TODAY
Is suede season back already? According to Holmes, this trend is here to stay and has even been seen on plenty of recent runways — most notably, in plenty of color! From earthy browns and neutral tones to bolder, vibrant hues, we're loving the variety and how this look can make any fall outfit pop. Our eyes are on these Veja styles — emphasis on the "style," considering their bold look, low-top silhouette and cool exposed stitching. Not to mention, Holmes says this pair is breathable and very comfortable.
“If I had to pick one go-to color for fall sneakers, it would be brown,” admits Holmes. At the top of her list are these OG Speedcat sneakers by Puma, which also happen to be a celebrity favorite right now. Why? According to Holmes, they have a special, edgy look that can “instantly” make any outfit look more elevated and put together. While its sleek silhouette screams timeless, its structural combination of suede and leather offers a more modern design that the brand says is highly inspired by Formula 1 racing culture.
If you love a ‘fit that inspires nostalgia, you should be excited to know that retro sneakers are so in right now — and not going anywhere. This '70s-inspired shoe offers a slim silhouette and a color-blocking design that will catch anyone’s eye — a stark contrast to the previously mentioned “dad” shoe. But Holmes says there’s no need to choose this season. “These days, we don’t need a one-size-fits-all sneaker. More and more people are varying up their sneaker game with multiple options in their closet,” she says.
Consider the animal print the spring equivalent of a spring floral. This fall, it’s all about this leopard style, which Holmes says “has a way to dress up even the most casual of outfits, while still somehow feeling like a neutral that goes with everything.” This shoe is a great option to experiment with patterns and textures, without overpowering your look. Plus, we love how affordable they are, coming in at under $37.
Fan or not, the chunk "dad" sneaker is still going strong and will likely be a major fashion player this season. The frontrunner? These contemporary New Balance 530 running shoes. "This style from New Balance combines two major trends — the chunky silhouette and a fashion-forward feel, thanks to metallic detailing," says Holmes. In addition to a cool look, Holmes adds that the pair also boasts a cushioned footbed "so you're just as comfortable as you are in style." And if you really want to be on-trend, try adding a ruffled sock for an unexpectedly chic moment.
If you thought footwear ends with your shoes, you are sorely in need of an accessorizing intervention. A fun sock can go a long way in your sneaker game, especially these cute styles from Bombas. "Crew socks aren’t just for the gym," says Holmes. "We’re seeing them styled with everything from sneakers to loafers. It’s a little retro, a little sporty, and makes your outfit feel intentional." She loves these half-calf socks for their playful, throwback gym sock vibe and various color options. "They’re the kind of accessories that don’t cost a lot but can totally shift your look," adds Holmes.
For an added pop of fun, you should consider these sock options that offer various fruity detailing along with vintage-inspired stripes. Choose from decals like cherry, lemon and tomato.
Just because we've seen a ton of dated-turned-fashionable trends so far doesn't mean you can't discover something new to add to your looks this season. You may have seen charms all over the jewelry scene this year, but did you know you can add them to your laces? Holmes describes them as a fun and inexpensive way to shake up your look; plus, they're incredibly versatile, as you can easily switch them up depending on your style or mood. Holmes describes these accessories from Urban Outfitters as having the "playful, mix-and-match energy Gen Z loves," but anyone could pull off.
Charms are everywhere in 2025, including on your feet. Shoelace charms are fun, inexpensive, and you can swap them depending on your mood or outfit — kind of like jewelry for your shoes. "Shoelace charms can give your sneakers new life — without needing to buy a whole new pair!" she adds.
More stylish fall sneakers to shop
We can't get over the range of color combinations that this sneaker has to offer. While the color-blocking patterns are clearly off the charts, the brand also looks to impress with this sneaker's design, which promises "contemporary comfort" to go with its retro look.
You can take your shoe game from zero to 60 with the right socks. When it comes to really dressing things up, you can't go wrong with a sheer accessory, especially when they're also designed with trendy dots.
Your typical white laces can get pretty boring. Who says you can't switch things up? Take a look at these striped options, which definitely have the coloring to get you in the fall mood ASAP.
If you love seeing the color brown taking off this season on the footwear scene, you should keep your eyes on this sandy, multi-textured sneaker from Steven Madden. They're designed for easy movement for occasions that call for casual and performance wear; plus, they'll definitely keep you on your toes with that pop of color on the laces.
If "pumpkin spice latte" were turned into a shoelace, the color and design of this style would fit the bill perfectly. These are just what you need to fall-ify your favorite sneakers and boots for the season!
Another sneaker that plays with colors, this pair looks like it could be the perfect look for someone looking to transition out of summer style but can't commit to full-on spooky season just yet.
With a 4.7-star rating on Amazon, these Vans sneakers are an overall customer favorite. They come in a few colors, but more importantly, are said to offer support, comfort and traction during more adventurous walks.
Want a more specific charm for your kicks? Anthropologie offers fun themes like football, animal prints, a party pack, gingham and much more.
I don't know about you, but I'm looking forward to donning all my favorite jewel tones this fall. And when it comes to a classic color like ruby red, I'd be happy to take on the challenge of styling these leather and suede sneakers. They are sure to add a ton of character to my autumnal outfits, whether they be midi dresses or jeans.
Meet the expert
- Sally Holmes is the editor-in-chief for InStyle Magazine.
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