This between-seasons time – after the heat of high summer and with September only a few weeks away – is a tricky one for dressing, especially when it comes to what we put on our feet. The flip-flops and slides are on their way out, but it’s still too soon to be embracing winter’s clunky boots. Where does that leave us with shoes? From mules to printed footwear, there are plenty of transitional styles for chillier temperatures without stepping into winter-shoe territory.
1: Slide away
Beloved of A-listers and the in crowd, mules allow you to have a foot in each season, both covering up your toes and liberating your ankles. Cropping up in flat styles or with a comfortable block heel, they are polished enough to wear to the office, with a tailored trouser or midi skirt, but work equally well off duty, with cropped denim and a light knit. Black is a good choice, offering a through line to the new season while being an elegant option for an evening shoe, especially if there’s added embellishment. If you’re still clinging to summer’s seasonal ease, look to pop brights, or chic neutrals.
2: Go wild
A go-to style favoured by Theresa May, leopard print has moved from Downing Street to the catwalk shows of Dries Van Noten, Michael Kors and Tom Ford. Considered a neutral by fashion insiders, an animal-print shoe will add an unexpected kick to all-black ensembles, or style it up with printed pieces like summery polka dots or geometric prints for a high-impact look. Don’t forget animal print also pairs well with a variety of transitional hues, like earthy tones and soft neutrals.
3: Boot camp
While boots are what we want in winter months, to warm out feet, there are plenty of lighter options. The white boot – the ultimate in transitional footwear – has been quietly maintaining a stranglehold on the shoe market and street-stylers’ feet for the past few seasons. Invest in a pair that hit at the ankle and team with midi skirts, printed dresses or, in these last days of summer, bare legs.
