GET YOUR KICKS

Good things come in pairs—particularly when it comes to this season’s cooler-than-cool footwear.

BY BLAIR SMITH

October 9, 2023

There’s a good reason why so many people have tunnel vision when it comes to finding the perfect pair of shoes. Just ask Carrie Bradshaw—or any fashion lover in your life. A gorgeous pair of shoes can—and should—last decades, as they toe the line between trendy and classic. A meaningful shoe collection ought to include a mix of styles featuring a range of wearability, but these days there seems to be a lot of overlap between comfort and fashion, with an entire movement of souped-up sneakers appearing in new collections from the most prestigious brands.

The biggest trends for the season involve playful and unexpected details. From Gucci and Ferragamo’s furry mules to Isabel Marant’s iconic platform sneaks, the trend du jour is all about surprising and delighting. This season focuses on classics with a twist. Take, for instance, Giorgio Armani’s Mary Jane flats. In regards to shape, they’re utterly classic, but once you add in a bouclé fabric, they’re unlike anything else you already own. Go ahead and scroll down for the shoes we’re loving right now—they’re all available now at South Coast Plaza, ready to make their way into your closet.

Gucci

−

SOUTH COAST PLAZA

THE FALL SHOE EDIT

−

Pesek Loafers In Brown Haircalf Leather

Bally

Loafers don’t always have to be so serious, you know. This pair, made of textural grained leather and a textured leopard print haircalf, is the perfect reminder that animal print might as well be considered a neutral.

Level 2, Between Jewel and Carousel Courts
714.557.1914

Marcie Clogs

chloÉ

Slide into something easy with these flat clogs, made of 100% sheepskin fur and 100% cow nubuck. They’re the perfect pair for running errands on a lazy Sunday—never sacrificing luxurious style for comfort.

Level 2, Between Jewel and Carousel Courts
714.481.0308

Portofino Faux Fur Sneakers

Dolce&Gabbana

Whether you pair them with a casual dress or slouchy jeans, these sneakers are all about personality. Even the inside is covered in faux-shearling, which means that every step will feel like walking on clouds.

Level 2, Saks Fifth Avenue Wing
714.668.9142

Fur Slipper

Ferragamo

These fire-engine-red mules couldn’t be hotter. We’re crazy about their perfectly on-trend square-shaped toe and long-haired kidskin upper—the combination of which is sure to turn heads.

Level 2, Nordstrom Wing
714.979.7654

Bouclé-Effect Wool Ballerinas

Giorgio Armani

Inspired by the brand’s similar bouclé handbags, these shoes are sweet, feminine and rich in texture. The thin, matching leather strap lends this pair a completely traditional Mary Jane style that will be in fashion for years to come.

Level 1, Between Jewel and Carousel Courts
714.546.9377

Thong Sandal with Horsebit

GUCCI

Leave it to Gucci to continue the fun evolution happening with their fur-lined styles—which now includes an exciting new thong sandal, complete with a kitten heel, signature horsebit and ultra-soft lambswool insole.

Level 1, Bloomingdale’s Wing
714.557.9600

Balskee Hidden Wedge High Top Sneaker

ISABEL MARANT

It’s hard to believe that it’s been over a decade since Isabel Marant first launched its iconic Bekett platform sneaker. Its new cousin— called Balskee—maintains the same hidden platform, offering some extra height, along with a cool, basketball-inspired denim design.

Level 1, Between Jewel and Carousel Courts
714.708.2690

Terra Suede Kitten-Heel Penny Loafers

Loewe

The kitten heel is back—and it has us purring with delight. This brushed suede style is a fun way to spruce up your favorite workwear—but also looks great off-hours, when worn with jeans and a button down.

Level 1, Nordstrom Wing
714.464.7420

Fussbett Sandals

marni

The furry, Marni slingback sensation continues—now in a lighter colorway! This pair is guaranteed to catch second glances with its playful texture and comfortable, everyday appeal.

Level 2, Macy’s Home Store Wing
714.380.3155

Suite Mules in Velvet

Saint Laurent

These velvet, heeled mules clock in at a hair over four inches in height, but with their thicker, supportive heel, you’ll party comfortably into the early morning hours. We also adore its almond-shaped toe for a unique touch.

Level 2, Between Jewel and Carousel Courts
714.429.0101

Skyla Appaloosa Print Velvet Chunky Platform Ankle Boots

Stella McCartney

A little bit country and a little bit rock ‘n’ roll, these ankle boots are brimming with fun, as they combine pony print on brushed velvet with a textured platform sole. As always with McCartney, they’re 100% vegan.