I Walk More Than 5 Miles Daily in Manhattan—Here’s an Editor-Recommended Guide to Fall Footwear for City Girls.
Hyperbole or not, living or working in Manhattan means you need to get used to walking. There are days when I've walked over five miles—often lost in music, strutting down 5th Avenue as if it were my own runway. It's a well-known fact that New Yorkers tend to walk quickly, so it’s crucial that whatever supports your feet combines comfort with style. As a shopping editor, an NYC commuter, and a former Manhattan resident, I present my city girl’s guide to fall shoes for 2025. I’m highlighting the latest Gen Z shoe trends for fall 2025 (including sporty sneakers, slouchy boots, and casual pumps) along with two Parisian fall staples (slim loafers and suede ballet flats). The classic Birkenstock Boston Clogs are featured, alongside the beloved Frye boots. Join me as I try on, style, and review these seven fall shoes approved by city editors.
My selection: Madewell Mylie Ballet Flats ($128)First up are the Madewell Mylie Ballet Flats. With numerous sizes already sold out (5, 6, 10, and 11), these are likely to sell out quickly. I had seen these soft suede ballet flats on Instagram and was curious if they would withstand the hustle of NYC. After testing them for a few weeks, I can officially say they are a must-have for fall 2025. The 100% leather upper endured Penn Station during rush hour, subway delays, and spontaneous dinners with friends. I’ve repeatedly reached for these chic suede flats because their mocha hue has become my new fall neutral. For this look, I decided on a casual sweater-and-jeans outfit, pairing my favorite Levi 501s with a thrifted lime-green wool turtleneck. I matched the dark carob Madewell flats to a woven brown leather bag. This is merely one of the many outfits I styled around these flats. I believe they would look fantastic with barrel-leg trousers and an oversized blazer. So if you’re in search of a new ballet flat for your fall shoe collection, I highly suggest the Madewell Mylie. Shop the Suede Flats
Madewell
The Mylie Ballet Flat
As there are no half-sized options, I recommend sizing up if you’re in between sizes. The 100% leather lining conforms to your feet for a snug fit. Being a true size eight, the matching size fits me perfectly. Despite often complaining about sore feet, I found these Madewell flats a relief during my Manhattan commute.
Shop the LookIf you're looking for new jeans, I suggest starting with the Levi 501s. Their fit is timeless. Check out 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 selection: Adidas Tokyo Shoe ($90)Low-profile sneakers are among the top fall 2025 sneaker trends. Fashion enthusiasts everywhere are opting for slimmer, sportier trainers to pair with trousers and jeans this fall. If you’re a regular WWW reader or notice what fashion folks wear, my choice for low-profile sneakers won’t surprise you: the Adidas Tokyo Shoes. I find them ideal for a casual outing but also versatile enough to dress up. These ’70s-inspired runners are perfect for city life. I embraced the sporty-chic look, matching these low-profile lace-ups with Reformation’s low-rise trousers and a basic white tee. I can also see them styled with wide-leg baggy jeans or even paired with cute socks and a similarly retro-chic shift dress for a playful yet sporty ensemble. The styling options are limitless, extending well beyond fall outfits. These rubber soles will stay stylish well into 2026. Shop the Sneakers
The soft suede upper adds a nice texture to any fall outfit. I found size 8 slightly spacious, but with a comfy pair of socks, they fit perfectly. Available in 12 colors, from off-white and deep black to mirror-finish metallics. Half-sizing is offered from 5 to 11.
Shop the LookCheck out the Vida Low Rise Pant from Reformation and a comparable white tank below. I’ve also added a pair of silver-toned earrings because it feels wrong to leave the house without jewelry.
Gap
Organic Cotton Vintagesoft T-Shirt
Reformation
Vida Low Rise Pant
Ettika
Heirloom Twist Small Hoops
My selection: Seychelles Mocktail Mule ($122)I’ve mentioned before that growing up, I envisioned wearing more heels as an adult. But this has turned out to be harder than expected. Living in Manhattan, comfort is a top priority for my footwear, and high heels aren’t exactly known for their support. This low-heeled mule serves as my alternative to a high pump without compromising style for comfort. I bought the Seychelles Mocktail Mule at the
Other articles
I Walk More Than 5 Miles Daily in Manhattan—Here’s an Editor-Recommended Guide to Fall Footwear for City Girls.
Additionally, how I would style them.
