Finally, to many people’s dismay, it’s officially fall. For some, that means a mild panic about swapping out the summer gear for the winter heavy-hitters, others have learned a thing or two over the years and already know there’s only one real thing worth worrying about. An insulated coat? Good quality thermals? Nope. A sturdy, downright handsome little foot number should be top of the list.
Because, really, what’s a fall fit without a good pair of reliable shoes? The right pair can completely change the way you walk into a room, whether you’re stomping through the rain, running to dodge the looming downpour, or simply giving your favorite worn-in jeans a much-needed seasonal reboot. And when it comes to footwear with a bit of bounce in their step, few do it quite like Dr. Martens. But you already knew that.
The brand has the fall footwear thing down to a fine art, whether you’re after a pair that looks like it's been kicking around since before you were born or something a little less expected. We’ve rounded up the lot, because there’s no reason your seasonal shoe switch has to mean settling for sensible.
Leather Lace Up Boots
Some boots do the talking for you. The 1460 is most definitely one of them. That yellow stitching and unmistakable sole, you know exactly what you’re looking at before you’ve even clocked who’s behind them. The beauty of the rugged Crazy Horse version is that they work for everyone. However niche your vibe is, everyone needs a solid boot this time of year, and this one’s a pretty safe bet.
Leather Mary Jane Shoes
If you’ve never really seen yourself as a Mary Jane person, let alone a chunky Mary Jane person, you’re not alone. They kind of snuck up on us and now we can’t imagine a world without them. The silhouette is everywhere right now, but the 8065 was never going to be your usual suspect, with its double straps and horseshoe buckles giving the whole thing a very Dr. Martens twist. This version takes it a little further, too. A little aged around the edges and definitely not the sort of pair you’d be precious about keeping pristine. Morning commute be damned.
Leather Tassel Loafers
If a Mary Jane isn’t calling your name, there’s always room for a classic-ish loafer. The Adrian is a tad more playful than your standard slip-on, thanks to those double tassels and kiltie fringe doing most of the heavy lifting. Add in that dark brown Crazy Horse leather and a bouncy AirWair sole, and suddenly the humble loafer feels a whole lot less humble. It’s got enough going on to make an otherwise straightforward fit feel considered, without looking like you tried too hard.
Leather Oxford Shoes
There’s a reason the 1461 has been around for so long. It’s the sort of shoe that can go from office to pub without needing a personality transplant, and this brown Crazy Horse version feels especially easygoing. Three eyes, chunky sole, zero fuss. Hey, sometimes that’s all you need.
Leather Utility Shoes
Okay, these are good. Like, really good. The Reeder takes that classic Dr. Martens chunkiness and gives it a bit of a hiking boot moment, with the brown Crazy Horse leather, chunky sole and those laces. It’s got enough going on to rescue even the most thrown-on jeans-and-jacket situation. And that dark brown leather? Give it a few months of wear and it’ll only get better. Seriously, as someone who owns a pair, I can vouch for this.
Leather Platform Boots
Want to turn the volume up a little this fall? The Sinclair is the boot for you. It’s chunkier, edgier and generally has a bit more going on than your average Doc, thanks in no small part to that platform sole and front zip. But here’s the thing: despite all the extra attitude, they’re still surprisingly easy to wear. The dark brown Crazy Horse leather helps with that. So, if your usual boots are starting to feel a little predictable, these are a pretty easy way to shake things up.
More Leather Where That Came From
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