It's the time of year when we bid adieu to flip-flops and strappy sandals, and get reacquainted with our socks, shoes and fall boots. While the loss of barefoot freedom is a little depressing, all is not lost – this is prime shoe-shopping time, after all.

To learn more about what shoes to shop for this season, we turned to Kelly Millar, style expert and founder of KM Image Consulting, for her thoughts on the latest must-have shoe trends. She gave us the rundown on seven fashionable options for the season.

1. High-heeled loafers
No longer a bland, business-casual option, loafers are making a comeback. And they're gaining some serious height this fall with the addition of chunky heels. "These shoes have a dressy feel to them and incorporate the comfort of a more substantial heel," Millar explains. Heeled loafers are a good choice for the office (paired with tailored wide-leg trousers), but versatile enough to be incorporated into an evening look (think pencil skirt and a flirty silk blouse).

2. Wedge boots
Height and comfort don't usually go together – but this fall you can have both. "Chunky wedge heels add the perfect amount of height and are easy to walk in," says Millar. She adds that ankle wedge booties, in particular, are a great choice this fall. Pair them with tapered-leg trousers cuffed at the ankle or skinny jeans.

3. Python print
Serpentine style ruled the runways this fall. Not only did we see snake print on bags, belts, skirts and pants – but footwear got the reptilian treatment too. Python in particular emerged as the slithery style of choice for many designers. Python-print chunky wedges, round-toe pumps and loafers are all stylish options, but don't overdo it, Millar says. "Avoid anything with a shine, and stay away from an extremely high heel. When wearing this print, you must keep things clean and classic."

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4. Colour-blocked shoes
We've seen colour blocking make a splash in fashion and home decor, and now this eye-catching trend has found its way onto shoes. "Colour-blocked heels and flats add a geometric, art nouveau vibe to your look," Millar says. When you wear this style of shoes, you should keep the rest of your outfit simple. For instance, a pair of blue and pink colour-blocked pumps would look great with dark grey tapered jeans and a sheer cream blouse. If you want to add a further pop of colour, finish your look with a bright, oversize clutch.

5. Smoking slippers
This season, classic ballet flats are taking a backseat to the latest trend: smoking slippers. These stylish flats go with everything and come in array of colours, textures and fabrics. You might even be tempted to pick up more than one pair – these cute shoes look chic in bright colours and neutrals, with embellishments and even in patterns.

6. Glitter
It's time show off your sparkly side – at least where your shoes are concerned. Everyone from Miu Miu to Christian Louboutin created glittery heels sure to turn heads with every stride. Fun and flirty, this trend isn't for everyone, says Millar, but if you feel like adding some sparkle to your shoe collection, now is the time to do it. Some styles to look for are round-toe pumps or chunky wedges. And don't forget to keep the rest of your outfit simple. Sparkly shoes are a fun way to update your favourite little black dress.

7. Ankle-strap heels
A stark contrast to some of the menswear-inspired looks that are hot this season, heels with delicate ankle straps are full-on feminine. "An ankle strap adds the perfect amount of sophisticated, ladylike detail," Millar says. She suggests scooping up a metallic pair to wear with your favourite cocktail dress.

Whether you're after one new pair of fall shoes or a whole closet full, there are lots of stylish looks to inspire you this season. Happy shopping!

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