I Cover More Than 5 Miles Daily While Working in Manhattan—Here’s an Editor-Approved Guide to Fall Footwear for City Girls.
Hyperbole or not, if you plan to work or live in Manhattan, you better get used to walking. There have been days when I’ve covered over five miles on foot in the city—often lost in music, strutting down 5th Avenue like it's my own runway. It's widely known that New Yorkers walk fast, so to keep pace with the city, it's crucial that whatever you wear on your feet is both comfortable and stylish. As a shopping editor, an NYC commuter, and a former Manhattan resident, I present my city girl’s guide to fall footwear for 2025. I’ve included the latest Gen Z shoe trends for fall 2025 (like sporty sneakers, slouchy boots, and casual pumps) along with two Parisian favorites (namely slim loafers and suede ballet flats). The classic Birkenstock Boston Clogs are also featured, as well as the beloved Frye boots. Join me as I try on, style, and review these seven fall shoes approved by an NYC editor.
My pick: Madewell Mylie Ballet Flats ($128)First up are the Madewell Mylie Ballet Flats. With various sizes already sold out (5, 6, 10, and 11), these are sure to disappear quickly. I spotted these soft suede flats on Instagram and questioned if they would withstand the hustle of NYC. After testing them for a few weeks, I can confidently declare them a must-have for fall 2025. The 100% leather upper handled the chaos of Penn Station at rush hour, subway delays, and spontaneous dinners with friends effectively. I’ve repeatedly chosen these chic suede flats, as their mocha hue has become my new fall staple. I styled them with a casual sweater and jeans, pairing my favorite Levi 501s with a lime-green wool turtleneck found at a thrift store. I coordinated the dark carob Madewell flats with a woven brown leather bag. This is just one of the many outfits I created around these flats. They would also look cute with barrel-leg trousers and an oversized blazer. If you’re seeking a new ballet flat for your fall collection, I strongly recommend the Madewell Mylie. Shop the Suede Flats
Madewell
The Mylie Ballet Flat
As there are no half sizes available, I suggest sizing up if you find yourself between sizes. The 100% leather lining conforms to your foot for a snug fit. Being a true size eight, the corresponding size fits me perfectly. I often complain about sore feet, but I found these Madewell flats to be a relief during my Manhattan commute.
Shop the LookIf you're in need of new jeans, check out the Levi 501s. Their fit is classic. You can shop a similar sweater from Pistola and a woven-leather tote from Anthropologie below.
levi's
501 Original Fit Jeans
Anthropologie
Woven Faux-Leather Tote
My pick: Adidas Tokyo Shoe ($90)Low-profile sneakers are a major trend for fall 2025. Fashion enthusiasts are opting for sleeker, sportier trainers to wear with trousers and jeans this season. If you’re a regular WWW reader or pay attention to fashion trends, my choice for low-profile sneakers will come as no surprise: the Adidas Tokyo Shoes. I think they're ideal for casual outings, but they can also be dressed up easily. These ‘70s-inspired kicks are perfect for urban living.
I embraced the sporty-chic look by teaming these low-profile lace-ups with Reformation's low-rise trousers and a basic white tee. I could also see them paired with wide-leg, baggy jeans, or even cute socks with a retro-chic shift dress for a playful, sporty vibe. The styling options are limitless and definitely extend beyond just fall outfits. These rubber soles will remain stylish well into 2026. Shop the Sneakers
The soft suede upper adds a great textural element to any fall attire. I found size 8 a bit loose, but with a snug pair of socks, they fit perfectly. They come in 12 different colors, ranging from off-white to deep black, including mirror-finish metallic options. Half sizes are available from 5 to 11.
Shop the LookCheck out the Vida Low Rise Pant from Reformation and a similar white tank below. I've also included silver-toned earrings because it feels wrong to leave the house without jewelry on.
Gap
Organic Cotton Vintagesoft T-Shirt
Reformation
Vida Low Rise Pant
Ettika
Heirloom Twist Small Hoops
My pick: Seychelles Mocktail Mule ($122)I’ve mentioned previously that I expected to wear high heels more often as an adult, but that hasn’t been as easy as I thought. In Manhattan, comfort is key for my shoes, and high heels aren’t usually known for providing that support. This low-heeled mule serves as my stylish alternative to high
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I Cover More Than 5 Miles Daily While Working in Manhattan—Here’s an Editor-Approved Guide to Fall Footwear for City Girls.
Additionally, how I would style them.
