Sharing the best closed-toe sandals for fall (in my humble opinion) — huaraches! Yup, we’re going full-on mom style today.
The Best Closed-Toe Sandals for Fall: Why I’m Wearing Huaraches on Repeat (Plus Outfit Ideas)
You know the jacket struggle in early fall when it’s chilly enough you need a sweater in the morning but by midday you are schvitzing and praying nobody notices? Fall shoes also have the same obstacles. It’s time to hang up the flip-flops but not quite time to break out the boots.
What’s a gal to do?!
Surprisingly, I solved this dilemma well ahead of schedule. Back in May, I was at the Oceanside farmer’s market. It’s about half local produce, half local artisans. I spotted a stand with handmade huarache sandals and immediately a lightbulb went off in my head.
My mom wore huaraches all throughout my childhood. I have such a strong memory of spotting these handwoven sandals in the shoe closet by the front door. Since moving to California and with my current WFH life, my wardrobe is more on the casual side these days. But I still want pieces I can dress up and feel polished when I step out the door. Sometimes my sandals felt too casual and my ballet flats felt too formal here in Southern California.
Huaraches filled a much-needed gap in my shoe collection. Plus, they’re so so comfortable and soft!
What Are Huarache Sandals?
If you’ve ever spotted those woven leather shoes that look equal parts chic and comfortable, chances are you’ve seen huarache sandals. Originally handcrafted in Mexico, huaraches have a rich history as artisanal footwear. They were made for everyday life, probably why they still feel so timeless today.
What sets huarache sandals apart from other shoes is their woven leather design. The weaving gives them a little extra stretch and breathability so they mold to your feet the more you wear them. I can attest my huaraches were quick to break in!
Unlike most summer sandals, huaraches are closed-toe, which is exactly what makes them perfect for fall. They give you just enough coverage on cooler mornings while still letting your feet breathe when the afternoon sun shines through!
Think of them as the happy medium between your airy summer sandals and your heavier fall boots. Huaraches are one of those woven leather sandals that manage to be practical and stylish all at once.
Why Huaraches Are the Perfect Transition Shoe for Fall
Putting an outfit together in the fall is all about balance.
Sidebar: Although, let’s be honest, there really isn’t a single aspect of life that doesn’t feel like a balancing act.
One day you wake up to crisp, cool mornings, and by mid-afternoon it’s warm enough to question why you ever pulled on a sweater. Or even thought about putting on a sweater. What was a reality in the morning seems laughable mere hours later. That’s exactly why I reach for huarache sandals this time of year. They’re the ultimate fall transition shoe.
Coverage & Breathability
Because huaraches are closed-toe, they give you that little bit of coverage you need once summer sandals start feeling too bare. Or when you miss a pedicure (I’m SO incredibly guilty of that right now). But (thanks, woven leather!!) huaraches are still breathable, which makes them perfect for those unpredictable September and October days.
Versatility
I love how huaraches move effortlessly between casual and slightly more polished looks. Slip them on with jeans and a cozy cardigan for a weekend pumpkin patch trip, or pair them with trousers and a blouse for a casual Friday at the office. They’re the kind of fall shoes that make sense in just about every scenario.
Comfort You’ll Actually Live In
Unlike some transition shoes that look cute but aren’t meant for long wear, huaraches were literally built for walking. Whether you’re running errands, chasing after little ones, heading out for a yoga class you desperately need (Hello, me), or grabbing coffee with a friend, these shoes are flexible and comfortable from morning to evening.
Timeless Style Factor
Huaraches have been around for generations and there’s a reason they never go out of style. They’ve got that effortless, classic look that feels fresh season after season, which is why I find myself wearing them on repeat.
I laugh how huaraches are in my mind the ultimate mom shoe because of how strongly I remember my mom rocking these shoes all throughout me growing up. And now here I am, a new mom reaching for my huaraches. Cue up the Lion King soundtrack because this is the circle of life, people!
When you add it all up, it’s easy to see why huaraches stand out as one of the best closed-toe sandals for fall. They’re practical, stylish, and check every box for this tricky in-between season.
How To Style Huaraches in Fall
Okay, enough of me yapping. Here are my favorite ways to style huaraches this fall.
Huarache Sandals with Jeans and a Sweater
Alice Walk Striped Mock Neck Sweater (On my fall wish list!) // Wide-Leg Denim // Huaraches // Gold Huggie Earrings // L.L. Bean Tote // Needlepoint Baseball Hat
I would wear this outfit every single day this fall. Actually, I might do just that. Think classic denim, a cozy knit, and your favorite huaraches for a look that feels put-together but not overthought. Super comfy, so easy to throw on in the morning on those days when you need to get up and go…and just keep going.
Also perfect for a Saturday morning farmer’s market or a trip to the pumpkin patch!
Bookmarking this fall outfit formula in my Notes app!
Early Fall: Huaraches with Linen Pants and a Button-Down
Rochelle Behrens Boyfriend Shirt (Full review here, it’s one of my favorite tops!) // Linen Pants (Quince also has a bunch of fall-friendly colorways in their linen pant) // Vera Bradley Crossbody // Pearl Necklace (So pretty & under $50) // Quince Leather Huarache Flat
If you’re like me and live someplace where fall weather doesn’t quite arrive until later in the season, this is an easy outfit to throw together. It feels seasonal while also keeping it breezy.
Huaraches with a Midi Dress and Field Jacket
Burgundy Maxi Dress // Field Jacket (Also love the plaid option for this one! And both are under $100!)) // Gold Huggie Earrings // Equestrian Silk Scarf (Love this tied around the neck or used to accessorize your purse) // Huaraches
If you’re not quite ready to pack away your summer dresses, huaraches make the perfect partner. A flowy midi dress layered with a barn jacket or denim jacket instantly feels fall-ready while keeping things comfortable.
Casual Workwear Chic: Huaraches with Trousers
Printed Ruffleneck Top // Jamie Pant (My absolute favorite work pant when I worked in the Senate, so comfy for long days) // Quince Huaraches // Schoolboy Sweater Blazer (Throw over for meetings or if your office kicks the AC into high gear)
Need something office-friendly? Huaraches pair perfectly with wide-leg pants and cropped trousers. Add a polished blouse and a sweater blazer and you’ve got a closed-toe shoe option that’s professional but not fussy.
Weekend Errands: Huaraches with Leggings & Pullover
Quilted Pullover // Leggings (My favorite from Amazon, they also have fantastic bike shorts and maternity leggings) // The Best White Crewneck Tee // Huaraches
For those busy mom-life days or just running around on the weekend, huaraches are a comfy alternative to sneakers. But also this outfit makes me want to cancel plans and sit at home with a fall-scented candle burning.
I love my huaraches with leggings (which you will pry from my millennial hands) and an oversized pullover. It’s an easy, casual fall outfit that looks a little more intentional.
How would you style huaraches in your fall outfits?
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