Shop fall 2025’s top shoe trends at Steve Madden: Cowboy boots, more

Get ready to step into fall in style.

With NYFW wrapping up, we’re keeping an eye out for which shoe trends spill off the runways and onto the streets — and which become autumn’s ultimate must-haves. And who better to provide insider perspective than Lauren Wilner, the Chief Brand Officer of Steve Madden?

Luckily, for those of us who were not born to run in stilettos, Wilner says “the kitten and mid-heel reign supreme” this season — whether in the form of a cowboy boot or an everyday Mary Jane.

Shoes that reflect “attitude, comfort and statement-making style” are also ones to watch, per the footwear expert. Below, shop our favorite chic brand picks you won’t want to miss out on.

“Slouchy kitten-heel styles like the Luca and mid-heel Western boots like the Ashwood are our go-tos right now,” Wilner shares.

Available in rich brown suede, black leather, denim and a fun print option, this wide-shaft style is a winning match for skirts, leggings and more.

“Of course, we’ll never give up our moto edge,” the footwear expert adds. “Classics like Riggs and Rocky have been staples with skirts and shorts all season — and will keep carrying us into fall with oversized, chunky sweaters.” 

Available in both regular and wide-calf sizes — and in both autumn-ready solid hues and prints — the Riggs is that any-day, any-‘fit pair you’ll be reaching for again and again.

While trends come and go, the cowboy boot is “forever iconic,” Wilner says.

“From Beyoncé’s ‘Cowboy Carter’ moment to Kendall Jenner’s effortless summer styling, the influence is everywhere,” she adds. “We’re here for the subtle nods: higher shafts, elevated heel heights and luxe materials like snake and crocodile.”

“We couldn’t be more excited about sneakers this fall, because it’s all about newness,” shares the CBO. “Wedge sneakers are making a major comeback [and] luxe suedes are elevating everyday outfits.”

Available in suede, fur-lined and color block options, the Mavis high-top sneaker elevates with a 1-inch wedge while offering velcro closures and retro styling.

“Animal prints have always been our go-to neutral. We love the fearless mix-and-match vibe of snake, leopard and crocodile all together. Pair them with a chic minimal outfit and let the shoes finish the look,” Wilner says.

We especially love incorporating wild prints in unexpected places, like an everyday loafer.

“The return of the mule and slide, high- or low-[heeled],” is one not-to-be-missed trend, according to Wilner. This studded style features elegant details that look equally cute with jeans and athleisure wear.

Whether in the form of “a sleek loafer or ballet-inspired flat,” an open-back shoe makes “the perfect transition from summer into fall,” the executive adds.

Available in sizes 5-11, this slingback is giving off-duty-celeb vibes. (It’s even a star of the brand’s cinema-inspired autumn campaign). The cousin of a mule, it features a heel strap to help it stay on your feet all day — and the rich burgundy color acts like a versatile neutral. It also comes in a luxe olive hue.

Long live the chunky-heeled Mary Jane, which is as fresh as ever — along with ballet flats — according to Wilner.

This one comes in gorgeous leather, suede and animal-print options.

Looking for red carpet-worthy heels? “This season, we’re loving a shift from all-out bling to more sophisticated, feminine styles,” Wilner says, noting that you don’t have to reserve stilettos for special occasions.

With a squared toe and lace-up ribbons, the Larina offers comfort while dipping into another footwear trend we love: satin textures.

“Because we can’t resist a little bit of drama, we’re obsessed with touches of fur,” the shoe expert says.
These faux-fur statement boots are truly rock star-worthy — and available in three colors.

Why Trust Page Six Style Shopping

This article was written by Erica Radol, Page Six Commerce Reporter. From identifying the top anti-aging skincare secrets the stars trust to pinpointing the season’s next big fashion trends to finding a great deal on all of the above, Erica has a knack for reporting on – and even testing – Hollywood’s bestselling fashion and beauty products. Before joining Page Six in 2025, she wrote about entertainment, lifestyle and shopping trends for Us Weekly, The Daily Beast, Entertainment Tonight, Well+Good and Hearst.