Part of nailing your fall style means having the right shoes in your wardrobe to effortlessly pair with your go-to dresses. (Hint: you might want to refresh your shoe collection with on-trend styles like suede footwear, platforms, and clogs this season.)
In this guide, we’ll explore popular shoe styles from REEF’s 2024 catalog that align with the hottest fall fashion trends this year. We’ll also go over some helpful tips for styling fall shoes for dresses, giving you all the fall fashion inspiration you need to dress your best this autumn.
Fall Fashion Trends 2024: Dresses and Shoes
If you want to revamp your style this fall with outfits that are work and play-friendly, finding the right dress and shoe combo is a must. Here’s a quick look at what’s hot right now:
Key Fall Dress Styles for 2024
Every year, the transition from summer to fall means we lean toward the longer hemlines in our closets — and 2024 is no different. This includes midi and maxi dresses with flowy or structured silhouettes, whichever is more your style.
One emerging trend this year is 70s-inspired color palettes and textiles. There’s a shift toward more rugged textures like corduroy, weaves, and denim, in addition to fall staples like wool and cashmere. Plus, boho and shabby chic are back in a big way this fall, as are warm earth tones like rust, olive green, and burgundy.
Why Shoes Matter in Completing the Fall Look
Shoes can truly elevate or transform the look of a dress – whether you’re heading to work, school pickup, or a weekend getaway.
But, when it comes to fall attire specifically, it’s all about finding the balance between style and practicality. The weather this time of year can change on a dime, and as a busy woman juggling family and work, you need footwear that offers plenty of comfort and support without detracting from your overall style.
With comfortable, versatile, and on-trend shoe styles like fashion sneakers, clogs, and platform sandals, you can ditch the heels for footwear that complements your look and can keep up with your busy lifestyle. We know your feet will thank you.
The Best Fall Shoes for Dresses in 2024
Let’s take a look at some of the fall shoe styles dominating the season, as well as the top REEF styles to help you stay on-trend.
Suede Shoes for a Soft, Textured Look
Suede shoes have a chic and polished feel, making them a great match for your favorite fall dresses. Their velvety texture brings a level of sophistication to any outfit and a rich feel that’s perfect for cooler fall weather.
Plus, they’re versatile enough to pair with dresses in neutral shades or fall-favorite jewel tones. No matter if you’re the queen of boho or a fan of minimalist attire — there’s a suede shoe for you.
REEF’s suede footwear offers a touch of warmth and softness, perfect for curating an autumnal look with flowy dresses or midi skirts.
Vista Serenity Cocoa - A fall must-have, this classic style stands out with its supple and sustainably sourced suede, intricate buckle detailing, and undeniable comfort.
Lay Day Seas Oasis - Those other sneakers in your closet just don't compare. Offering the comfort of a classic sneaker with a fashion-forward design, the Lay Day Seas is perfect for any stylish woman on the go this fall.
Ojai Two-Bar Starfish - The Ojai Two-Bar sandal is about as versatile as they come. Its iconic two-strap design is made with premium luxe suede and an elastic closure, so they’re designed to move with you — wherever the day takes you.
Platform Shoes for a Bold Statement
From chunky sandals to lifted sneakers, platform shoes are an ideal pairing for chic fall fashion. Easily dress up any platform sneakers, clogs, and sandals with a sweater dress or pencil skirt for a chic outfit that still prioritizes comfort.
You can put a fashion-forward twist on casual dresses or style them with more structured and tailored styles to create a balanced look that elongates the legs. Either way, platforms are undeniably one of the best fall shoes for dresses if you’re looking for comfort and versatility.
REEF’s platform shoes give you a height boost with rock-solid stability, helping you step out confidently in style.
Cushion Vista Hi Cork - You don’t have to sacrifice beauty for comfort with the Cushion Vista Hi sandals. With a nice lift, easy slip-on style, and energizing rebound in each step, these sandals offer the boost you need on the busiest days.
Lay Day Lift Sage Multi - The perfect blend of comfy and cute, the Lay Day Lift sneakers offer a nice pop of color to your fall wardrobe.
Water Vista Higher Cocoa - If you want a stylish fall shoe that’s lightweight, offers plenty of height, and is comfortable enough for all-day wear, you need the Water Vista Higher sandal. Bonus: they’re water-friendly.
Vista Higher Luna Cappuccino - More comfortable than a heel but with the same amount of lift, the Vista Higher Luna sandals are a real treat for your feet. Plus – they look just as good as they feel.
Clogs: The Comfortable and Trendy Choice
Clogs are having a total resurgence in 2024. Providing both style and comfort when worn with casual fall dresses — you don’t want to be late to this trend.
Dress to impress by pairing clogs with boho-inspired dresses, maxi skirts, or even sweater dresses for a totally cozy and laid-back autumn look. An underrated bonus is that clogs easily transition from casual daywear to relaxed evening outings, a great feature for a busy woman on the go.
The REEF clogs collection features effortless slip-on styles and a walking-on-clouds feel to complement your fall style.
Vista Liana Cocoa - The possible fall outfit combinations are endless with the Vista Liana clog. With a timeless style and the comfort you crave, they’re sure to become a new favorite.
Weekend Low Brooke Cocoa - Perfect for your laid-back indoor and outdoor adventures, the versatile Weekend Low Brooke clog is endlessly comfy with a sustainably sourced nubuck leather upper to give it a polished look.
Weekend Low Sierra Sage Cord - From our latest drop, the Weekend Low Sierra clog is a match made in fall heaven. With a cozy faux shearling liner and a rugged outsole for excellent traction, this clog offers the best of both worlds.
Vista Hanna Cuban Sand - Be the queen of casual this fall with the cozy Vista Hanna clogs, a pair of tights, and your favorite flowy dress.
How to Style Fall Shoes with Different Dress Types
Keep reading to learn how to style fall shoes for dresses to look incredible from head to toe.
Maxi Dresses and Platform Shoes
Maxi dresses are a true fall staple, offering a bit more leg coverage as the temperatures start to cool off. When picking out the perfect shoe to go with your maxi dress, consider reaching for your platforms.
Lifted sneakers, clogs, and sandals are a great match for maxi dresses, offering some height to go with the elongated silhouette of the dress. Especially when paired with boho-inspired maxi dresses, platform shoes like the Cushion Vista Hi or Water Vista Higher sandals add a casual-chic vibe that accentuates the femininity of the style.
Styling a killer fall fit with a maxi dress doesn’t just stop at the shoes. Layer some additional elements like a trench coat or oversized scarf to complete the look, keeping you feeling effortlessly cozy and stylish.
Sweater Dresses and Clogs
Once fall weather settles in, it’s time to bring out your favorite sweater dresses. This year, try refreshing your look by pairing them with some stylish clogs. Both comfortable and on-trend clogs add a refined element to your cherished sweater dresses.
Styles like the Vista Liana are the ultimate business casual shoe for fall, making them an excellent choice for more fitted or semi-formal sweater dresses. On the other hand, clogs like the Vista Serenity are a bit more laid-back and casual, giving your sweater dress a relaxed feel that’s perfect for a Sunday brunch with friends.
A layered look with chunky scarves, long cardigans, or trench coats is wonderfully stylish. Plus, these accessories help you stay prepared for anything on those in-between fall days when it’s chilly in the morning and sunny in the afternoons.
Matching Your Shoes and Dresses for the Perfect Fall Palette
Here are some quick pointers on pairing the right shades of dresses and shoes to create head-turning fall outfits:
Choosing Colors that Work Together
From neutrals to bold colors and everything in between, you’re not limited to just one color palette when choosing fall footwear.
Of course, neutrals like tan, brown, black, and beige are always good options if you want shoes that go well with most fall dresses. But, if you’re interested in experimenting with color, try matching your shoes and dresses in earthy tones like olive green, mustard yellow, or rust for a coordinated look.
You can even play with contrasting colors or color blocking to create bold fall outfits that turn heads. For example, you could try the Lay Day Seas sneakers in Red with a navy blue midi dress or the Cushion Vista Hi sandal in Frosty Suede with a black fitted style dress for the perfect pop of color.
Texture Combinations for Fall
Mixing textures adds depth and balance to fall outfits, which can help you elevate your style. Keep this in mind when choosing which shoes and dresses to pair together.
Maybe you mix a pair of suede shoes, like the Vista Higher Luna, with a wool or cashmere dress for a luxurious feel. Or, style a pair of leather clogs, like the Vista Liana, with a smooth dress fabric like silk or cotton for a totally polished look.
Don’t skip out on other accessories like textured scarves, tights, and handbags to complete your look and show off your unique style.
Elevate Your Fall Style with Reef Shoes and Dresses
The right footwear can elevate any fall dress — whether you’re aiming for a casual-cool look or sleek and sophisticated fashion. Make sure to find shoes that aren’t just stylish but versatile and practical, too, so you’re ready for any fun fall festivities that might head your way.
REEF’s footwear collection is the perfect companion for 2024 fall fashion — including everything from clogs to sneakers to sandals. Explore REEF’s latest collection to find your own dress and shoe pairings for a fashionable autumn.