In case you haven't heard, I'm slightly obsessed with shoes. It may not be a passion singular to me, but it is something I consider an active hobby. If you've been following my shoe obsession for any length of time, you'll know that one of my go-to brands is Steve Madden. The U.S. brand came on the scene in the early '90s, and its now-iconic platform shoe made an impact faster than you say "stiletto."

But today, the brand is known for so much more than platforms. (Don't worry, platform stans—it still has loads of platform options.) The brand's fashion-forward collections span a whole range of footwear from heels to sneakers to sandals to boots. For autumn 2023, everyday styles including the Carrine loafer and Ellison ballet pump are fit for the 9-to-5 routine, and I love the Cassandra boot for casual weekend activities and the Charlize heel for a Saturday night. But the Mana knee-high boots are at the top of my list. I'll be wearing them several times a week from now until May 1.

As a fashion editor, I'm often asked where to buy affordable pieces that still pack a punch. There aren't many brands offering designer styles made with quality leather for under under £200, especially when it comes to footwear. That's why Steve Madden's statement styles are always my recommendation. The brand understands trends, be it neon PVC, diamanté details or mock-croc burgundy boots. Of course, for you classicists that prefer a more pared-back look, there's something for you, too. Ballet flats, loafers and chunky Chelsea boots are the epitome of capsule-wardrobe footwear and are at the core of the 2023 quiet-luxury craze.

As such, the team at Steve Madden asked me to put together five outfits styled with five pairs of shoes I'll be wearing the most this season. From office-appropriate sneakers to the ever-classic "dress and winter boots" combo, these ensembles are what I'll be wearing around the clock this autumn.

1. GO-WITH-EVERYTHING SNEAKERS

Style Notes: Although tailoring isn't something new—power suits have had a presence in womenswear since the 1980s—there's one thing that gives a power suit a cooler, contemporary edge: sneakers. If you want to get the most out of a two-piece, get used to wearing it with a good pair of trainers. They aren't only comfortable (although that plays a big role in why I love them) but also add an edge to conventional formal workwear. Pairing a suit with comfortable trainers makes them appropriate for a wealth of smart occasions. Dinner with friends? Yes. Gallery browsing? Of course. A day of back-to-back meetings? Absolutely. One of my favourite pairs are the Steve Madden Possession trainers. They feel sporty, completely in line with athleisure trends that have populated the runways for years, and they're supremely comfortable.

2. PERFECT KNEE-HIGH BOOTS 

Style Notes: This outfit is the secret to looking chic with minimal effort. Wearing a dress you adore with a pair of boots is a simple yet effective solution for transitional days. Is it a tad chilly or muggier than expected? Are there light showers? You're covered. (Just don't forget an umbrella.) You'll also look elevated for any event be it a meeting or dinner date. I chose the In Stereo boots because they crease and hang so elegantly around the calf. The heel gives me some height (I'm 5'3", so I love a heeled boot) without attracting the drama of a high heel. They're also easy to walk in (a major plus) and come in a creamy "greige"—oh, hello!

3. CLASSIC LOAFERS 

Style Notes: I love anything that can be considered preppy, so a loafer is often my go-to. I want to showcase these lovely Harlem mock-croc loafers in all their glory, so for these transitional months, I'll wear them with bare legs, a check skirt and blazer. (Cher Horowitz, eat your heart out.) But as the weather turns cooler, adding tights will keep you warm without compromising your style. For me, this is a cute office look, especially if I have semi-casual after-work plans, but the beauty of the everyday loafer is its ability to go with so much. Style this pair with jeans, a simple white T-shirt and an oversized blazer for something more classic, or wear them with the pictured outfit and add some colourful socks to enhance the statement.

4. PRETTY BALLET FLATS

Style Notes: You know when you buy yourself a nice dress for an important event—a Christmas party, your friend's wedding or perhaps a big birthday celebration—but never find another occasion to wear it again? At Who What Wear, we're all about making the most of your wardrobe, which is why I'm making a case for rewearing the cocktail dress for more casual occasions once the special one has passed. To do this, you just need a cute flat. This could be a ballet flat, a loafer, or better yet, a slingback. This year, the ballet-flat comeback was as big as Beyoncé's Renaissance tour (so yeah, pretty big), and this slingback Belinda flat feels like a grown-up take on the trend. It's not as dressy as a heel, (but not as uncomfortable, either), and styling it with a smarter dress isn't exactly something new, but it's a tip worth noting. I could have shown you these shoes with the age-old "jeans and a cute top," but you already know that one. This look gives you the excuse to wear that dress you love (that's lurking in the back of your wardrobe) on Friday night, and who's going to pass that up?

5. FANCY HEELS

Style Notes: So you've seen the dress-and-heels combination done a million times. After all, when it comes to elevated occasions, it's the go-to for most of us. But when wearing heels like this silver Bryanna style, spice it up with a statement top. I'm a sucker for silver styled with feathers, especially in baby pink or another pastel. This tailored, tapered trouser feels like a cooler alternative for a dress. This is my ultimate hosting outfit—it may feel early to mention Christmas, but believe me: It's just around the corner, and this outfit has "festive season" written all over it.

Discover more of the A/W 23 Steve Madden collection here.

I need to make a confession: I'm obsessed with shoes. While trying on new clothes usually gives me changing-room anxiety (will my boobs fit in this shirt? Am I going to be too short for those trousers?), shoes almost always fit and look good. As a fashion editor, I'm constantly looking at the latest styles and considering which will be the biggest trends worth investing in, so people are always asking for my advice. ("Which shoes look best with this dress?" "Can I get away with trainers for work?" The short answer, by the way, is yes.) The truth is I love designer shoes, but I can't always afford them. So my secret to shoe shopping is to look for affordable brands whose shoes have the look and quality of designer styles without the hefty price tag.

A brand that I go back to time and time again is Steve Madden. Whether I'm looking for the perfect party heel or need to quench my thirst for athleisure with a fresh pair of sneakers, Steve Madden's collections are up to the minute when it comes to trends, and look much more expensive than they are. 

But I'm striving to be a more conscious shopper, so I'm really trying to rein in my frivolous, unnecessary purchasing. At the beginning of each season, I think about what I actually need and invest in pieces I can wear for multiple occasions. At Who What Wear, we're big proponents of the capsule wardrobe, which includes not only apparel but shoes, accessories and bags as well.

In light of this, I selected six pairs of shoes from the Steve Madden S/S 23 collection and styled them for every conceivable event that I may attend in the next six months, from my best friend's 30th birthday to a spring wedding, to a dinner party to even a lunch-break post-office run. Each outfit is built entirely around the shoes (and maybe the bags, too) that I'll be wearing this season. Enjoy!

1. OFFICE TRAINERS

Because I spend so much time in the office dashing to and from meetings, I need my footwear to be comfortable. Thankfully, we no longer live in a time when workwear is synonymous with pencil skirts and court shoes (although that can still be a great look), so my go-to is tailoring with fresh trainers. I'll wear these sneakers with a suit to give a more casual edge, and when they've become too worn-in to be office-appropriate, I'll retire them to weekend wear. (Pro tip: Use baby wipes to clean them so they last as long as possible.) This particular two-piece suit is also Steve Madden. It has an oversized fit, which is what I always look for—I hate feeling restricted in a fitted blazer!

2. OCCASION HEELS

Are you attending a wedding or heading off to the races? Is your summer calendar essentially bursting with dressier occasions? Mine too. May I present you with the Lucent: a black satin heel with a jewelled embellishment. Although it comes in an array of bold colours, this classic black goes with everything I already own. Also, is it just me, or do these shoes have Carrie Bradshaw's name written all over them? If you love an all-black look, pair them with the Bemiliaa Shoulder Bag and a black satin dress—it's one way to bring the drama.

3. SPRING SANDALS

Nothing says spring to me like a skirt, a linen shirt and a pair of comfortable heels. And the Jetfuel Sandals are exactly that. The double strap puts less pressure on your toes, and I love this mushroom "greige" hue, a welcome alternative to cream, which dirties quicker. Worn with the Borolo Crossbody Bag (check out that woven exterior), this look is perfect for lunches with friends or work appointments that require something a little more elevated. Take note: These shoes come in black, too.

4. ULTIMATE PARTY BOOTS 

When I'm going out, I like to go all out. Call me attention-seeking, but there's a place for statement shoes. For me, that is a big celebratory occasion, such as a big birthday or a hen party. The Sapphire Rhinestone Boots are hardly subtle, and oh, how I love them for it. To really show them off, I paired them with something short and doubled up on the sparkle by wearing them with my favourite rhinestone-adorned accessory, the Bcarlo Shoulder Bag. The best thing about these boots is how they look in the light: The rhinestones sparkle like nothing else. Even under the flash of your phone's camera, they glitter in all their glory.

5. SPARKLY SANDALS

Is there any better combination than jeans and a nice top? Surely not. But I see your jeans-and-a-nice-top outfit combo and raise you "jeans, a nice top and an even nicer pair of shoes." This look is perfect for date nights or dinner parties. Silver is this year's metallic of choice, so double down on it with the Bglowing Bag. The wide, padded straps make these Top-Notch Sandals extra special. They provide comfort so you can hop between the kitchen and the table if you're hosting or comfortably walk from the restaurant to a bar if you're out.

6. NEUTRAL SNEAKERS 

Full disclosure: This is how I dress most weekends. I'm all about comfort. In fact, I'm practically in a relationship with my tracksuit bottoms. But they're easy to elevate with a good sneaker. Because I love neutrals, the Manerva Trainers in beige instantly caught my eye. With a cuffed trouser (I always wear cuffed joggers because I like to show off my shoes and a little ankle) and a cashmere sweater, I never feel messy when running errands.

Want to see more from Steve Madden? Shop the full collection here.

When it comes to shoes, Steve Madden is a powerhouse name. The billion-dollar shoe brand already has over 250 stores across 65 countries. Plus, Steve Madden also got a shout-out in The Wolf of Wall Street. However, it has only just found a home in the UK, opening its first brick-and-mortar store at the beginning of November in Westfield White City. As a fashion editor, I love the chance to see the product up close, and so I went to the shop to try on the boots, heels and trainers. 

Don't forget to follow @stevemaddenuk on Instagram.

Assistant editor Elinor Block wearing the Slouch boots

After trying on several pairs, it was easy to see why Steve Madden is so popular. There are plenty of choices for the diehard shoe lover. Classic pieces that range from black court shoes to on-trend biker boots are sure-fire winners. But then there are chunky sneakers that tap into the dad trainer trend. These come in so many colours they're bound to suit every taste. The range of strappy sandals is impressive—ideal for anyone set to head out to various parties over the festive period. After seeing all the shoes up close, we made our edit of the pieces that caught our eye. Keep scrolling for more.

Elinor wearing the Vala shoes

Elinor wearing the Carrson sandals

Searching for the perfect pair of under-£100 ankle boots for autumn? Look no further—we've discovered them at U.S. favourite shoe brand, Steve Madden. The brand's Gaze Booties (£90) from the best sellers section come in a whopping 11 different colours, and we're almost tempted to collect them all. 

If we'd have to narrow down a few of our favourites, we'd pick the satin versions in pink and green. Satin is a trend we haven't stopped talking about for the past six months, and it shows no signs of slowing down for autumn. Which version are you dying to swipe up? 

Scroll down to shop our favourite ankle boots from Steve Madden's best sellers section. 

Next up, 38 of the best A/W 17 ankle boots you won't want to miss.

Opening Image: Style du Monde

Whether you’re gearing up for Coachella or are planning on attending another festival, today’s guide will help you make sure you’re packing all the stylish necessities. (Because let’s face it: you’re there for the fashion as much as the music.) Click through now to see the key pieces you’ll need to stand out from the crowd this festival season. 

Why do we love this dress? Well there’s the gorgeous dusty blush colour, awesome tie detail, and keyhole back. We could go on, but we think you get the point.

?Nasty Gal One Way Ticket Dress ($68)

Fedoras are to Coachella as sand is to the beach. This chapeau will add an understated element of colour to your outfit.

?ASOS Felt Fedora Hat ($38)

A romper is the ultimate no-fuss festival piece. It’s worth a little hassle in the restroom: trust us.

?Free People Walk to the Beat Crochet Romper ($78)

We’re obsessed with the new Luv AJ and Stone Cold Fox collaboration. Add this belt to almost any ensemble for an instantly festival-ready outfit.

?Luv AJ x Stone Cold Fox The Ramone Belt ($97)

You’ll look like one of fashion’s It-girls in this unbelievably cool two-piece set. In other words: just purchase it.

?Pixie Market Damask Midi Skirt Match Set ($52)

Fringe is the unofficial adornment of music festivals. Get on board the trim train with this embroidered kimono.

?River Island Coachella Kimono ($66) in Cream

From the vibrant jade green colour to the petite flask size, we’re completely enamoured with this cross-body bag.

?ASOS Leather Hip Flask Cross Body Bag ($85) in Jade

This ultimate festival top is light enough to wear while it’s hot during the day, but will also keep you warm through the night.

?BB Dakota Julina Sweater ($56)

At only $16, it wouldn’t be the end of the world if you got a couple grass stains on these geometric-print jogging pants.

?Forever 21 Hollywood Regency Joggers ($16) in Black/Cream

Cute enough to wear as a top, this bathing suit is perfect for Coachella pool parties.

?Made by Dawn High Neck Crop Top ($68) in Powder

Panels of lace take this breezy maxi dress from standard to stellar.

?Billabong Night Glow Dress ($70) in Black 

The sleeker cousin of the traditional two-strap Birkenstock feels especially fresh in white.

?Birkenstock Mayari Birko-Flor Sandal ($90) in Antique Lace

Pause for a minute on this unique belt. Sure, it’s a bold move, but imagine how it will transform a simple black tank dress.

?Express Fringed Buckle Belt ($30)

Looking for perfectly faded, destroyed denim shorts? Click here!

?MINKPINK Tomboy Shorts ($80)

Forever 21 is truly upping their shoe game. Case in point: these classic low-cut ankle booties, revamped with zipper details.

Forever 21 Metal Moment Booties ($40) in Tan

Printed denim shorts with a lace-up detail? Yes, please.

?Billabong Lite Hearted Bandana Denim Shorts ($50)

This sheer white crop top reminds us of Rag & Bone’s S/S 14 runway in all the best ways.

?Nasty Gal Off the Grid Crop Top ($42)

A baseball hat is a tried and true classic, and the floral pattern on this one gives it a fashion-girl twist.

Forever 21 Floral Baseball Cap ($9) in Orange/Multi

Calling Alexa Chung fans: the Brit It-girl would totally wear this minimalist romper.

?Need Supply Co. Claudia Romper ($68)

Going for an Erin Wasson vibe? This armband will help you master the look.

?Free People Metal Upper Armband ($28)

Sun-bleached print dresses were made for swaying to your favourite band.

?Some Days Lovin Sky Map Tribal Dress ($70)

If you have to ask why a mirrored lens is a good idea at Coachella, then you clearly haven’t been before.

?Quay Asha Shades ($40)

Mission accomplished: we found the perfect little white lacy dress for under $70.

?Pixie Market Linda Summer Lace Dress ($62)

You’re there to dance your head off, right? Treat your overtaxed feet right with a comfortable pair of espadrilles.

Soludos Camo Original Espadrilles ($48)

This knit top has ‘90s babe written all over it. We’re not mad at that t-strap back, either.

?Ecote T-Back Sweater Bralette ($39)

A two-piece set is a sure way to make dressing a snap, as all of the work is already done for you.

?ASOS Reflective Palm Print Crop Top And Shorts ($75)

We’ve been dying to get our hands on this coin necklace ever since Erin Wasson layered it over a vintage tee in a Free People short film.

?Free People Long Coin Layering Necklace ($48)

Here’s why a bohemian long-sleeved top is pure genius: your arms stay protected from the sun and the breezy cut will keep you cool.

?Billabong I Heart This Top ($50)

Feminine yet bohemian, this darling lightweight dress is ideal for braving the hot desert sun.

?Mango Ruffled Skirt Dress ($60)

This fringe cross-body bag was made for music festivals, but its on-trend bucket shape guarantees you’ll still be wearing it for months to come.

?Zara Combined Leather and Suede Bucket Bag ($100)

Nothing says laid-back cool like a pair of overalls.

Free People Washed Denim Overalls ($98)

Dash from the Main Stage to the Sahara Tent in style with these blush pink sneakers.

?Steve Madden Ecentric Pony Hair Flats ($100)

Not a cutoffs girl? Try this equally chic pair of black ripped bermudas.

?Volcom Savage Womens Skinny Denim Bermuda Shorts ($45)

We’re so in to the ‘90s neckline right now.

?Pins and Neddles Smocked Cropped Halter Top ($39)

Sporty, stylish, and comfortable too! These sandals will keep your feet happy all day long.

?Jeffrey Campbell Adler Flatbed Sandals ($100)

Set the sartorial standard this festival season with this printed two-piece set.

JOA Printed Top And Shorts ($92) 

Throw on this flirty crop top with jean shorts and a pair of ankle boots for a coquette in cutoffs vibe.

?Reformation Monaco Top ($98)

We’re suckers for versatility—this simple bauble can be layered with other necklaces, worn alone, or even wrapped around your wrist.

?Raven and Lily Alem Triangle Tassle Necklace ($26)

Reason #57 why a backpack is the ideal bag: You can’t wave your hands in the air if you’re clutching your purse.

?Baggu Recycled Canvas Backpack ($42)

You’re sure to stand out in any crowd if you wear this bright blue tank. Plus, have you seen the open back? Colour us smitten.

Free People One Fly Away Tank ($68)

These sunnies are perfect for everyday wear, but will also fit flawlessly into your Coachella wardrobe.

?H&M Sunglasses ($8)

Forget looking like everyone else—this turban guarantees you won’t be just another girl in the crowd.

?Namrata Joshipura Beaded Patterned Turban Headband ($40)

Quiz: What's Your Festival Style?

Porter Grey Embroidered Dress ($495, 877.746.7267) in Black

Jil Sander Navy Blouse (Price Upon Request, 212.925.2345)

J Brand Leather Super Skinny Jeans ($895) in Noir

Frieda & Nellie Colorado Cowgirl Cuff ($182, 646.543.0364) in Vintage Silver

Reece Hudson Bowery Oversized Zip Top Clutch ($597) in Red & Black

Aldo Rise x Preen Heels ($160, 323.465.0100) in Red

Similar Styles:

Porter Grey Embroidered Tank ($385) in Ivory

Topshop Short Sleeve Panel Shirt ($68) in White

Steve Madden Akcess ($140) in Coral Nubuck

Lace-up heels are like the leather mini skirts of footwear; no matter what you wear them with, they give your look instant sultry appeal and everyone should own a pair! These strappy, skin-baring heels are incredibly alluring, either enhancing an already glamorous outfit or lending a feminine counterpoint to a casual ensemble. The fashion-forward set, such as Taylor Tomasi Hill, has picked up on this trend lately, and we think you should too. Click through our slideshow to shop some of these lovely lace-up picks now.

Wearing: Camilla and Marc top and skirt; Jimmy Choo The Candy Glitter-Print Acrylic Clutch ($650); Luiza Barcelos heels.

Wearing: Givenchy Woven Lace-Up Ankle Boots ($1950).

Wearing: ShoeDazzle heels.

Wearing: Giuseppe Zanotti Lace-Up Suede Gladiator High-Heel Sandals ($1195).

Wearing: Zara heels.

Similar Essential: Pour La Victoire Lace Up Booties ($270).

Wearing: One Teaspoon boyfriend jeans; Givenchy Antigona Satchel Bag ($2405); Giuseppe Zanotti Lace-Up Suede Gladiator High-Heel Sandals ($1195).

Wearing: Blazer from Crossroads Trading Co.; vintage Levi’s shorts; Very bag; ShoeDazzle shoes.

Wearing: Junya Watanabe dress; Alaia shoes.

Wearing: Wasteland jacket; SheInside Black White Striped Short Sleeve Slim T-Shirt ($26); One Teaspoon shorts; Zara bag and Leopard Print Ankle Boot Sandals ($100) .

Wearing: Balmain top; James Perse skirt; Alaia shoes.

Similar Essential: Sophia Webster Riko Cutout Suede And Leather Sandals ($695).

Studded Cutout Leather Sandals ($2355)

Multicolored Lace-Up Sandals ($129)

Snake-Embossed Leather Stilettos ($1481)

Leather Sandals ($830)

Arieli Lace Up Booties ($220) in Oyster

Sofie Heels ($325)

Print Patent Leather Stilettos ($1298)

Imena Lace Up Sandals ($495)

Meddle Suede Sandals ($1095)

Mesh-Detail Lace-Up Shoes ($708)

Kiki Gladiator Sandals ($818)

Sporty Lace-Up Leather Sandals ($495)

Amazon Lace-Up Ankle-Wrap Sandals ($595)

Boomerang Lace Up Pumps ($1295) in Black

Mucho Heels ($100)

Cori Heels ($125)

Jill Stuart Pauline Blouse ($678, 212.343.2300) in White

Katie Ermilio Striped Matchstick Pants ($998, 212.947.2600) in Striped

Jimmy Choo Cayla Patent Leather Clutch ($1,150) in Black 

Steve Madden Realove Heels ($80) in Black Suede

Lele Sadoughi Stone Round Slider Bracelet ($250) in Pearl

Similar Styles:

Madewell Lace T-Shirt ($128)

A.L.C. Sutro Pants ($355) in White/Black

Super Ilaria Lizard Sunglasses ($376) in Red 

Linea Pelle Allegra Double Wrap Skinny Hip Belt ($100) in Gold 

Elizabeth and James Essential Vern Blazer ($445) in Peach Wash

Jenni Kayne Boyfriend Shirt ($295) in Black/White

Elizabeth and James Ron Trousers ($295, 731.664.1842) in Ivory

Joie Edie Tote ($368) in Black 

Steve Madden Darrt Pumps ($100) in Pewter

Jennifer Fisher Square Reverse Choker ($125) in Gold

Robyn Brooks Lulu Large Python Bracelet ($222) in Black and White

Similar style:

The Limited Drew Metallic Waistband Ankle Pants ($60) in White 

Gorjana Arc Large Hoop Earrings ($60) in Plated Gold

YB J’Aime blouse and skirt from the Mademoiselle ’12 collection

Proenza Schouler PS11 Classic Bag ($1950) in Saddle

vintage boots

Alternatives:

BDG Breezy Slub Button-Down Shirt ($29)

Maeve Mehndi Embroidered Skirt ($60)

Rebecca Minkoff Aiden Satchel ($396)

Steve Madden Colaterl Knee-High Boot ($50)