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With the cooling weather, it's time for many of us to put away the flip-flops and strappy sandals, and instead haul out the heavy boots and clunky loafers. But this shoe turnover can be especially tricky for commuters: They need good fall shoes for commuting, whether that's taking a bike, train, or walking — or else the whole trip will be miserable. Pinched toes, uncomfortable bubbles, and chafed heels have the potential to ruin a day before it even starts, so comfort is key. But lucky for them, this upcoming fall seems to be all about comfort and excess.
While stilettos are always in, there is a special focus on low-to-the-ground looks. Small kitten heels and squat block heels reign supreme, and slides and loafers have gotten a maximalist makeover to make them feel more sartorial and less predictable. Gems decorate booties like antique broaches, sneakers get artistic touches, mules are wrapped in fur, and shoes are coming out in loud shades of velvet. Even if you have to make comfort a priority, that doesn't mean you will be saddled with a boring, practical shoe. Ahead are 15 of the best fall shoes for commuters — arrive to work in style.
1High Top Sneakers
High Top Sneakers With Contrasting Sole, $40, Zara
Give your high tops a high fashion spin with this sleek and impeccably tailored pair. They look a little more "put together" than most classic kicks, so you can easily pull off wearing these into the office. And the chunky platform and subtle two-tone gives it a very "2017" spin, making them the perfect fashion statement for your morning commute.
2Fringed Wide Fit Loafers
Millenium Wide Fit Leather Flat Shoes, $72, ASOS
Add a vintage twist to your outfit by picking fringed loafers that bring up images of dim libraries and study halls. They could go just as easily with a tweed jacket as they could with jeans, and the rich oxblood color fits in perfectly with fall's vampy color palettes.
3Croc-Effect Ankle Boots
Croc-Effect Ankle Boots, $60, Mango
If velvet isn't your thing but you're looking for texture, why not switch over to a croc-effect? This bootie looks very grown up and high-fashion, and its low block heel will make it a breeze to commute in in comfort. No sore soles by the time you come into the office!
4Stylish Rain Boots
Kensington Chelsea Boot, $80, Cougar Shoes
There's bound to be a rainy day or two the next couple of months, but does that mean you have to sacrifice your outfit for the sake of keeping your feet dry? Keep the hardcore galoshes at home and instead try on a stylish pair of wellies to match your look that day. These are great because they look like Chelsea boots, and they come in a bevvy of different colors so you can choose the one that matches your wardrobe the most.
5Maximalist Booties
Velvet Ankle Boots With Gem Detail, $90, Zara
If you're over the whole minimalism thing, then say hello to these fabulous boots. Not only are they velvet, decked out in baubles, and sporting a regal looking green, but they're flats so your feet will be comfortable no matter how many blocks you need to walk!
6Tapestry Booties
Women's A+ Ariella Tapestry Booties, $40, Target
Make a bold statement this morning by dabbling in one of fall's hottest trends: tapestry booties. This Target pair is great because it's black, so it might be able to match more outfits in your closet. You won't be able to stop grinning at your feet as you're standing jammed on the subway.
7Wide Fit Chelsea Boots
Absolute Wide Fit Leather Chelsea Ankle Boots, $60, ASOS
Are you craving a minimalist but sleek pair of boots for the fall? These leather ankle boot from ASOS could be just the ticket — not only do they have a well tailored shape that could elevate any outfit, but they will match any look you'll throw at them.
8Minimalist Slip-Ons
Delphine, $150, Tkees
For those warmer fall days, a simple but luxurious slide is perfect for any outfit you choose. This pair is a standout because of its rich velvet and almond-toe shape.
9Furry Embroidered Loafers
Embroidered Loafer Slip-Ons, $28, Forever 21
If you want to keep your feet toasty while you're power-walking down those city blocks to your job, then why not incorporate some fur into the look. These embroidered loafers will not only make a statement with their rose motifs, but that pop of fur will also add some texture to your look.
10Appliqué Loafers
Appliqué Heel Loafers, $100, Mango
If you're looking for a more classic pair of loafers, then these well-tailored ones will upgrade any outfit you throw at it. And bonus! The studs on the heels give them an interesting, maximalist twist.
11Faux Fur Sneakers
Leather Sneakers with Faux Fur, $60, Zara
If you feel adventurous with your wardrobe, opt for walking sneakers with playful details, like embroidery, gems, or in this case, fur! This furry pair will upgrade a simple pair of jeans or add an exciting twist to a dress, while simultaneously keeping your feet comfy no matter how long it takes you to get to work.
12Wide Fit Toe-Cap Mules
Mona Wide Fit Toe Cap Mules, $30, ASOS
A little hardware always brings in something extra to an outfit, but rather than teasing out the metallics in your jewelry or bags, try adding that element through your shoes. These toe-cap mules bring in a pop of metal without overwhelming your style.
13Tapestry Sneakers
Shelly's London Erin Brocade Boots, $148, Anthropologie
Do your feet feel the most comfortable in sneakers? To avoid looking like the cliche beginning of 9 to 5 with a bunch of businesswomen walking around in clunky white gym shoes, give your pair an upgrade with color and tapestry work. This pair is amazing because not only does it have a rich floral background, but the platform makes it feel very "now."
14Double Buckle Riding Boots
Wide Fit Knee-High Boots, $49, Torrid
Nothing says fall more than a rich brown pair of riding boots. Give them an upgraded twist by choosing a pair with a little hardware, like two gold buckles that add some gleam. This pair also has the added bonus of having stretch gore panels, which accommodate a wide array of leg shapes, so your calves get a comfortable fit.
15Wide Fit Moto Boots
Elmira Wide Width Moto Boots, $38, Target
A suede block heel bootie is part of most people's fall arsenal, and thanks to the low heel, it's super easy to walk in. Look for details like side buckles to add an extra touch to your outfit, and you'll conquer that commute in style.
We might have to pack away our comfy sandals with the seasons changing, but there are plenty of gorgeous fall shoes that will have any commuter's back.
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