Throughout New York Fashion Week, showgoers are usually running from runway to runway, often catching the subway — it’s typically faster than a car in Manhattan traffic — from one end of the city to another and crowding into small spaces where feet can very easily be stepped on. Given these factors, the shoes we choose to wear play a big role in our overall fashion week success (not just our outfits).
Every morning before heading out the door, you have to ask yourself questions like, “Is this loafer going to offer the right amount of traction for the 10-minute walk from the subway station to the venue on a slushy day?” or, “What’s more important today — my ability to stand in place without falling over or my sense of style?”
If you’re lucky and have a car service to step directly in and out of, you might just be able to wear a not-so-practical high heel to a few shows — but that’s certainly not always the case.
Plus, comfort and aesthetics aren’t always mutually exclusive: A sleek, knee-high boot can add polish to a look while also keeping your legs pleasantly warm. A sneaker can allow you to be on your feet for hours on end, and with the right style and colorway, it can also be the cool focal point of an ensemble.
Fashionista’s editors are no strangers to being on the ground during the New York shows. So we’ve rounded up our favorite shoes that kept us feeling deserving of our fashion job titles while providing us the stability and support we needed to get through the work.
See (and shop) the styles that helped us trek through the Fall 2025 season below.
Adidas Originals Gazelle Indoor Shoes, $120, available here: “I decided on a whim to pack my old Gazelles in my suitcase to New York while forgetting to pack my one pair of rain-and snow-appropriate boots. Of course, there was a snowstorm my second night there, so the Gazelles had to fill in, but thanks to the gum sole and ample foot coverage, they weren’t a bad replacement.” —Dhani Mau, Editor in Chief
Khaite Ona Crinkled-Leather Knee Boots, $1,480, available here: “Knee-high boots are ideal February footwear because they add an extra layer of warmth to the lower legs while still keeping a sleek silhouette. Of course, I’m drawn to this pair from one of New York’s most beloved labels of the moment.” —Steph Saltzman, Beauty + Style Director
Betsey Johnson Sadyy Purple Multi Heel, $99, available here: “I don’t usually wear heels during fashion week given the demanding physical aspect, but with the help of luxury chauffeur service Blacklane, I was able to wear this adorable, eye-catching style with embroidered flower sequins. As my mom would say, ‘These are ‘in-and-out of a car’ shoes.'” —Brooke Frischer, Staff Writer and Social Media Manager
Puma Speedcat OG, $100, available here: “When I ran around all day or was waiting around backstage to interview designers, I needed comfortable footwear that still stood out. These red Pumas added a fun pop of color to my NYFW outfit, while still being uber-comfy, thanks to the cushioned insole.” —Janelle Sessoms, Staff Writer
Bared Footwear Palmchat Black Leather Ballet Flats, $269, available here: “While I adore the look of pointed-toe pumps, they aren’t exactly conducive to an entire day’s worth of trekking through the city. But this pair of Mary Jane flats from Bared Footwear captures that sleek, sophisticated look without making my feet feel like they’re bleeding after multiple shows. They’re crafted with plenty of cushioned support in the arch and heel, as well as a metatarsal dome to reduce pressure on the ball of the foot, making these flats a must for New York Fashion Week’s packed schedule.” —Catie Pusateri, Contributing Writer
Naturalizer Deesha Knee High Boot, $265 $190, available here: “When I know my feet are going to be my main transportation during fashion week, I don’t usually opt for heels. But I know these heeled boots are surprisingly comfortable: I’ve spent eight-plus hours walking (and running to subways) in them, without sore soles or aching calves at the end of the day. Pretty revolutionary for an anti-heels kind of gal.” —Savannah Sitton, Market + Branded Content Editor
By Far Off-White Sofia Boots, $605 $242, available here: “I’ve had these for years and they’ve become a crucial wardrobe staple, especially for fashion week: The streamlined silhouette means they look great with anything, while the ultrasoft leather and block heel provide all-day comfort and stability.” —Dhani
Steve Madden Faye Black Leather, $190, available here: “I’ve been in need of a tall, thin-heeled boot that gives me height while remaining comfortable throughout hours of running around the city. Turns out, this style is exactly what I was looking for. The boot is slim with a subtly wide calf, keeping the silhouette very sleek while also being non-restrictive. I wish they made these in more colors!” —Brooke
Emme Parsons Danielle Glossed Croc-Effect Leather Loafers, $595, available here: “Loafers are seasonless, timeless and go with absolutely everything. This croc-embossed style has a glossy finish that adds extra polish I love — especially as a way to contrast a more casual outfit.” —Steph
Vince Camuto Seshon Boot, $229 $180, available here: “These knee-high black leather boots instantly elevate any winter outfit, and perhaps more importantly, they keep my feet warm while braving New York’s frigid weather. The boot’s block heel delivers a comfortably stylish stride, while its square toe silhouette doesn’t crush my toes (and leaves extra room for my thermal socks).” —Catie
Ganni Light Pink Feminine Buckle Ballerinas, $425 $213, available here: “I swear these are the comfiest, most durable flats I’ve ever owned: I’ve walked for several hours from show to show in these, with no issue thanks to the plush, pillowy sole. Though the streets of Manhattan couldn’t defeat them, my new puppy could (and did). So now I have my eye on a pink pair (somebody, hear my prayers!).” —Brooke
Birkenstock Boston Soft Footbed Clogs, $165, available here: “If I’m being real, much of my fashion week is spent standing around backstage waiting to see a finished hair and makeup look, or behind my laptop screen, so comfort is key. My Birkenstock Bostons (paired with cozy socks, like these from Comme Si or these from Jenni Kayne) really got me through.” —Steph
Dr. Martens Amaayah Knee High Leather Boots, $220, available here: “These knee-highs are my favorite footwear to stop around in: They feature all the quality details we know and love Dr. Martens for — heavy soles, sleek shapes and vibrant stitching — but in an unexpected design that feels so fresh, onlookers are always shocked to find out the brand. And because they’re so comfortable (they’re slightly lighter weight than the typical lace-up Docs in my closet), I feel like they took hardly any time at all to break in.” —Savannah
Bared Footwear Wedgebill, $269, available here: “It’s NYFW, of course I reached for a pair of penny loafers. I love that they’re cute, practical and offer a lot of styling versatility.” —Janelle
Bearpaw Super Shorty Eggplant Boots, $75 $65, available here: “I wouldn’t dream of walking New York City in the winter without my shearling-lined ankle boots from Bearpaw. The suede is treated with a water-resistant coating that keeps them looking brand new, even after stomping around in the snow and slush. The interior lining is made of wool shearling, which keeps my toes toasty. This eggplant purple hue feels unique compared to typical neutral suede shades, and just a little more fun.” —Savannah
Disclosure: Blacklane provided select transportation for the Fashionista team during February New York Fashion Week.
Please note: Occasionally, we use affiliate links on our site. Some of these products were gifted. In no way do either affect our editorial decision-making.
Source: Fashionista.com