Amira wears a pair of chunky loafers from Massimo Dutti.
We've found ourselves in the final weeks of summer, which means we'll soon be swapping our strappy sandals and canvas espadrilles for hardier footwear. The defining shoes of the coming season are already taking their place in-store and on new-in pages, with key trends including lug-soled loafers, minimalist flats and cowboy boots.
To start dipping your toes into said trends, all you need to do is turn to your go-to high-street brands. Shoes can be expensive, so it's always a relief to find high-quality pairs that don't cost an eye-watering amount. Brands like Mango, Arket and Massimo Dutti have seriously stepped up their game in recent years, and if anything, there are now too many good shoes to choose from. With this in mind, we've whittled down the hundreds on the market to the 25 most impressive; those we think rival even the most premium designer pairs in terms of style and wearability.
Five high-street heroes in particular have captured our attention lately. Scroll on to see the highlights of their autumn shoe collections, from sleek ankle boots to velvet ballet flats.
1. & Other Stories
Penny loafers (particularly the chunky variety) will be big news this autumn.
That's right, ballet flats are sticking around for another season.
This deep brown shade looks so luxe.
A truly unique pair that taps into both the western and Mary Jane shoe trends.
& Other Stories' loafers always sell out fast.
2. Arket
These will look just as great with midi dresses and tights as with straight-leg jeans.
Just because we're prepping for autumn, you don't have to retire all colourful pieces to storage.
Wow! Can you believe these aren't designer?
I've been eyeing these up since they first dropped.
Wear these on autumn nights out then carry them with you into party season.
3. Zara
How fun are these? Just add patterned socks when the temperature drops.
The entire Who What Wear team is obsessed with these.
Mark my words, cowboy boots will be everywhere in the coming months.
These smart flats are a comfier alternative to heels for a night out.
The perfect errand-running shoes.
4. Massimo Dutti
So. Good.
Reluctant to splurge on the iconic Gucci loafer? Consider this chic high-street alternative.
I've seen pairs like this on Net-a-Porter for ten times the price.
These also come in black if you're worried about scuffing them.
Love-forever boots.
5. Mango
The chunkier the better.
The wood heel has a really premium effect.
Mango is the master of expensive-looking heels.
Pull out these stylish stompers on particularly chilly days.
Cute! You can pop these in your handbag as a back-up when you're wearing heels.
Next Up: 11 Under-£100 New-Season Pieces We've Bookmarked This Month
