Just because it's fall doesn't mean you can't wear a dress. Discover the shoe trend that makes frocks feel autumnal and elegant.
Paris Fashion Week has kicked off in great fashion—not only on major runways, with Jonathan Anderson's romantic Dior collection and Anthony Vaccarello's rumored final Saint Laurent show, but also on the streets. Stylish dressers from around the world have descended on the city to showcase their finest street style, and Jennifer Lopez stands out as a clear highlight.
No matter where she is, J.Lo always delivers effortlessly chic ensembles, but today she showed the ultimate formula for styling a maxi dress this fall : pairing it with one of the season's key flat-shoe styles .
While taking a break from the shows to shop, J.Lo was photographed wearing an ivory lace slip dress, black loafers, and white socks. She completed the look with a Dior bag and aviator sunglasses.
If we're being honest, J.Lo's outfit felt unexpected—and for good reason. First, she typically opts for platform heels or PVC pumps, so a fresh shoe style caught us off guard. Second, the contrast between the sophisticated dress and the casual flats and socks stood out. That said, the juxtaposition is what made the ensemble look fresh, cool, and aspirational. It was a prime example of Allison Bornstein's "Wrong-Shoe Theory."
If you're inspired to recreate J.Lo's look, keep scrolling. Ahead, I've rounded up the chicest maxi dresses and loafers to wear this fall .
On Jennifer Lopez : Khaite dress; Dior bag
Every It girl's fall wardrobe includes at least one simple black maxi dress.
These new Nordstrom loafers which also come in chocolate brown look so expensive.
Just because it's linen doesn't mean you can't wear it in the fall. Add loafers and a sweater around your neck, and you've got a chic autumnal look.
Ruched loafers like these are still trending.
If I didn't already own a similar style, I would buy this dress. I tried it on in the Madrid store and loved the way it fit.
Shopbop's label Le Bop makes great elevated basics.
Burgundy loafers are just as versatile as black ones.
Yes, you can style this dress with heels, but I think it would look cooler with more casual shoes like loafers.
The crinkled fabric adds just the right amount of dimension and polish.
I guarantee that these are worth the investment.
Nikki Chwatt is an associate fashion editor based in New York City. She joined Who What Wear in 2024 after writing fashion, beauty, and lifestyle content for WWD, Well+Good, Editorialist, and more.
With a passion for personal style and the creativity that comes with it, one of Chwatt's goals is to help others understand that there is no such thing as a “good” or “bad” style; it’s just about putting an outfit together that makes you feel confident in yourself.