Jennifer Lawrence just wore the transitional shoe that will elevate every outfit until it’s cold enough to wear boots
Boat shoes are the perfect alternative to trainers
While the weather is still too mild for boot season to really kick in, loafers and white trainers are usually my go-to shoes. But this time around, I'm wearing boat shoes, and I can't deny I've been very much inspired by Jennifer Lawrence.
She was recently spotted in New York wearing an effortlessly chic combination of a blush slip skirt and a teal cashmere jumper by Suzie Kondi, which perfectly ticks the autumn/winter 2026 colour trends. But it was her transitional footwear that really had me hook, line and sinker.
Unlike her dreamy Hermes bag, Jennifer's shoes are actually really affordable. They're by the American brand Sperry, and their Authentic Original boat shoes have got hundreds of positive reviews on Amazon, including one customer who wrote: "I love these deck shoes. The only type I've worn for decades.", and another who said: "I always wanted a pair of these. I wear them without socks and they’re very comfortable."
Shop chic boat shoes
Jennifer's boat shoes are by Sperry, and this classic tan leather option truly will work with everything in your autumn capsule wardrobe. They're available in half sizes too, so if you think you might wear yours with socks when it's chilly, go a half size up.
Darker mahogany shades might be a bit more reliable in the unpredictable weather, and these H&M deck shoes look much more expensive than they are. They'll work well with dark denim and cosy knitwear.
Lean into the heritage trend with this suede option from Boden. You can save 15% with the code 4F3C, taking the price down to just under £110.
Complete the look
This looks just like Jennifer's jumper, but it's almost £600 cheaper. It's 100% cashmere, and it's the perfect way to add a punchy pop of colour to your autumn outfit ideas.
I love the contrast in textures between Jennifer's cashmere knit and slip skirt. This midi skirt will do the trick, and the lace trim elevates it even further.
The Hudson is one of the best DeMellier bags to invest in, and the croc effect of this option looks like it should cost thousands, not hundreds.
Boat shoes are perfect for wearing now with straight or barrel-leg jeans, and then you could switch to socks and tailoring when it gets colder. They're the shoe equivalent of a light jacket - perfect for this in-between weather.
Loafers or ballet flats are the obvious autumn go-to, but boat shoes feel a bit fresher for 2026. They have the practical appeal of trainers, but they're that bit smarter, plus they're super quick and easy to slip on, and will give any outfit a preppy feel.
They're having a serious fashion moment thanks to designer labels like Miu Miu, Celine and Prada, but luckily the high street has got you covered so you don't have to really push the boat out (sorry, I couldn't resist!).
