As a collegiette, you understand the struggle of walking down endless sets of stairs, busy sidewalks and packed hallways on a daily basis. This becomes even more difficult if you live on a big campus and have long walks from your dorm to class. While you want to stroll through campus looking stylish, the wedges that you splurged on this summer just aren’t going to work this semester. But you’re not alone in this struggle: we talked to collegiettes just like you, and made a list of their recommendations for the cutest (and comfiest) shoes for walking on campus.
1. Converse
An overwhelming number of collegiettes agree that there’s nothing better than a classic pair of Converse. “They look cute with pretty much any outfit I would wear to class on a typical day, and are so comfortable to walk around campus in,” says Emma Koch, a junior at the State University of New York at New Paltz. White, gray and black styles are versatile and will go with almost anything.
2. Birkenstocks
There’s nothing as comfortable as a pair of these classic sandals. “Birkenstocks are easy and quick to slip on, plus they’re super comfortable for walking around campus,” says Allison Crist, a sophomore at the University of Kansas. “I have a pair in black so they match everything.” While Birks haven’t always been considered super stylish, fashion girls everywhere are embracing the look.
3. Oxfords & loafers
It’s no secret that the menswear-inspired trend is everywhere. If you’re looking to work this vibe into an everyday outfit, look no further than a pair of oxfords or loafers, like these ones from Forever 21. Not only are these shoes stylish, but they’re comfortable enough to walk around campus in. Complete the menswear look with a button-up white blouse and a pair of dark jeans or black pants.
4. Mid-calf boots
As fall sets in and you make the transition to jeans, leggings and chunky knit sweaters, you’ll definitely want to have a pair of mid-calf boots from Macy’s on hand. Not only are they great for long walks on campus, but they’ll last you well into the winter months as well (extra important if you live on a cold and snowy campus!).
5. Combat boots
There’s no better way to make a statement this fall than with a pair of combat boots from Century 21. “When I’m walking around campus in the fall, my go-to pair of shoes are my Steve Madden combat boots,” says Malone Ryan, a junior at John Carroll University. “They go with any outfit, whether it’s a dress with tights and a cardigan or skinny jeans and an oversized sweater. Plus, you can wear them laced up or buckled down for two completely different looks.” Both black and brown styles of boots add a touch of edginess to any look.
What are you waiting for, collegiettes? There’s no better time than a new school year to invest in a go-to pair of shoes that will carry you across campus—and through the semester.