I know we’re still very much in the thick of summer—temperatures are high, vacations are still being booked, and my sandals haven’t exactly been retired yet—but my mind? It’s already somewhere in October.

There’s something about this point in the summer when the fashion girls collectively start looking ahead. Suddenly, the sundresses we couldn’t stop buying in May are being pushed to one side of the closet, the Pinterest boards are getting moodier, and we’re mentally making room for leather jackets, oversized denim, great knits and, perhaps most importantly, fall shoes.

For me, shoes are usually where the seasonal transition starts. You don’t necessarily need to overhaul your entire wardrobe the second the temperature drops. A great boot with a pair of jeans you already own can completely change the look. A funky loafer makes even the simplest trousers feel intentional. And when it’s still 80 degrees outside but you’re desperate to dress like fall has arrived? A good pair of clogs, mules or ballet flats can help you cheat the season a little bit.

This year, I’m especially interested in shoes with some personality. I love a classic black boot as much as the next girl, but Fall 2026 is giving us permission to have a little more fun. Think unexpected textures, Western details, animal prints, chunky silhouettes, rich suede and shoes that feel just slightly weird—in the best way. I want the kind of pieces that can make a white tee and jeans look like an actual outfit.

But I’m also being realistic about what deserves closet space. I’m looking for a mix of statement shoes and everyday workhorses, with plenty of affordable finds sprinkled throughout. Because as much as I love a fabulous shoe, I also love being able to buy said fabulous shoe without checking my bank account three times afterward.

So, while everyone else is squeezing in their last few weeks of summer, I’m reorganizing the shoe section of my closet. From boots made for mini skirts and denim to funky flats, loafers and easy transitional pairs I can start wearing before the first cold front ever arrives, these are the shoes currently convincing me that fall can’t come soon enough.

Author: Shelby Stewart

Read the original article on Essence.