1 of 2

Write now Article Tools

Back-to-school time is fast approaching. The stores are loaded with sales and new merchandise for the Fall 2008 season. Thanks to nation-wide shoe store chains, everyone has a chance to buy the coolest kicks (shoes), no matter where they live. The trends this year are as interesting as they are comfortable and affordable.

Both the guys and the girls want sneakers. The hot thing is a shoe that rides low and sleek, with minimal detail and bright color trim. Adidas, Puma and Converse have these styles in sizes from pre-school to adults. Nike's shoes are styled more for running, with more supportive soles. They are so classic they defy the trends. New Balance, Asics, and Brooks are old-school sport shoe names that have great looks that stand out from the rest. If your trend is to not be trendy, look to the lesser known names for interesting, comfortable styles. The colors this year are white with bright accents for girls, and browns or dirty blacks for the guys. The trend of eco-clothing does extend to shoes-earthy-colored fabrics and colors like: rust, green, beige, hemp and maize are popular.

Guys like to get out of the sneakers once in a while. The trend is for a more dressed-up look all around. Brown and black leather casual shoes are becoming popular. They fit like a sneaker, but have little detail. Generally they are understated and smooth, either slip-on or laced. These shoes look dressy, but are comfortable enough for all-day wear. The most common shoe of this type is by Skechers.

Skechers makes incredibly trendy and comfortable shoes for women as well. Rocket Dog, Mudd, and Madden Girl are other good labels for interesting shoes. The current dressed-up look means girls need a comfortable shoe to go with dresses and skirts. The ballerina slipper in corduroy, the Mary Jane flat in leather, the Euro-styled sleek leather sport shoe are all examples of flat shoes that pair well with lady-like clothes. In the more dressy shoes, brown, black, and gray are dominant colors. Fabric shoes have more bright color: burgundy, olive, khaki, and dusty blue are colors of the moment.

The new styles of pant this fall call for a slightly high heel. The pants are longer, going past the ankle. They are either flared or boot-cut. The absolute hottest thing is the super-tight ankle. The pant is, in fact, snug from hip to ankle. Incidentally, thanks to stretch fabric, these snug pants are not ridiculously tight. But the current length of pant requires a heel. The 1- inch to 2-inch "kitten" heel is back, with a rounded toe and a Mary Jane strap. Smooth-fabric sneakers are being shown with a wedge heel. Platforms are up-to-date, especially those with a platform under the base of the foot and the heel. Finally, the "bootlet"-a boot going midway up the calf, with a 2-inch heel-in leather or suede, is big this fall.

Fall 2008's back-to-school styles in footwear are attractive. They really do make the foot pretty and lend themselves to making the outfit classy. Best of all, they are comfortable enough for a full day in class.

Learn more about this author, Kathy Deutsch.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about 2008's trendiest footwear fashions for school?
We want to hear your view. Write now!