The best shoes spotted on the fall/winter 2023 runways

As it was nearing the tail-end of the season, it had become crystal clear that a wave of creative genius had struck just in time for the fall/winter 2023 runways.  Despite major executive handovers—from Gucci, Ann Demeulemeester and Burberry—collections were still sumptuously delivered on the catwalk. The latter, especially, saw Daniel Lee turning tables with a playful, contemporary vision for the British heritage house. There was also an astute awareness for what the modern woman might desire in their wardrobe; most potently displayed at Saint Laurent, Fendi and Prada, where there was high regard for impeccable tailoring—down to every last detail. 

And yet the garments were not all there was. Accessories came in strong, with bags taking on distinctive, nebulous shapes, alongside shoes that were both statement-making and functional. Case in point: Conner Ives and Chanel’s offerings of knee-high boots that carried with them cacophonous prints, enough to grab anyone’s attention when out on the streets. The lived-in look was opted for at Acne Studios and Diesel, with the use of distressed fabric and washed-out denim respectively. Whereas Bottega Veneta’s textural set came via an intriguing wool-like pair of house socks, only they were made from knitted leather. 

Elsewhere, sleek, sophisticated forms ruled the catwalk at Hermès, Saint Laurent and Ferragamo, all optically elevated with a sculptural heel. Whilst embellished heel designs from Prada and Prabal Gurung were evermore visions of femininity. As with every turn on the runway, there were more playful attempts at the sole protectors; see Loewe’s collapsed boot, flowers sprouting from the combat boots at Valentino or Thom Browne’s clockwork platform brogue. Yet should utility be your final choice of the day, turn to Max Mara’s delicious chocolate lug boot or Chloé’s heeled sandals reminiscent of the Gilded Age.

It’s no question that the recent season certainly dialled up on the dazzle when it came to the forms we adorn our feet with. See Vogue Singapore’s top picks of the best shoes to cop from the fall/winter 2023 runways once they hit the stores.