As a Mom in Italy, These Amazon Shoes Are Chic, Comfy & Keep Up With My Toddler—From Just $30

As an American mom living in Italy, let me tell you the difference I’ve noticed between European and American parents: footwear. Yes, Italian shoes look chic, but have you ever navigated a stroller, chased a toddler, and balanced an overflowing diaper bag between pavement, cobblestones, or steps in a medieval town? You need comfortable shoes (style is a huge plus, too). 

Supple leather and a beautiful design are hallmarks of Italian footwear, and I see them on the streets of Italy constantly. From Adidas sneakers to a chic boot and mule loafers, I’ve rounded up 10 Italian-inspired comfy shoes that will keep me on my toes with my toddler this fall (but not literally—there are no stilettos on this list).

Fericzot Velvet Mule Slip-On Loafers 

Venetian gondolier-inspired velvet loafers are heavily trending in Northern Italy, and I’m a huge fan of their convenience and style. The embroidery adds a touch of old-world elegance and quirkiness, making them the perfect statement to wear with a T-shirt and wide-cropped jeans. Although I also love to wear them with my favorite silk pajamas. 

Adidas Sambas Sneaker

I’ve seen many moms in Europe wearing Adidas Sambas, whether with socks and beautiful slip dresses or styles in bright fluorescent colors at the playground. As a former Samba wearer, I’ve been contemplating getting a classic pair for some time now. 

My current “cool” sneakers are a splurge and were a gift, but they remind me of Sambas. You can wear these Adidas all day and still feel comfortable—even if you have to suddenly push a stroller uphill on cobblestones (you can at least feign effortlessness).

Dolce Vita Fynn Fashion Boot

After studying abroad in Milan, a leather knee-high boot was one of my biggest style takeaways. They are sophisticated and tough with a little bit of oomph. I deeply covet these Bottega Venet knee-high boots, but at over $2,000, they do not check my budget box. These Dolce Vita boots cost $100, and I love the boho vibe of the suede material. 

These knee-high boots are stylish and I can move in them. They also extend the life of summer dresses into fall. 

Beaupas Patent Leather Over the Knee Boots

Whenever it rains, I wear my flat patent leather thigh-high boots. Judging by the Fendi, Gucci, and Bally runways for fall this year, they’ll make a comeback in Italy. I got faux leather thigh-high boots years ago, and they’ve served me loyally every fall and winter since. These boots on Amazon feature a rubber sole for traction and a zip-up enclosure for easy on-and-off access. 

The best part? They’re incredibly affordable at $44. 

TN Tangnest Mary Jane Flats

When I saw that ballet flats were back, I did a deep dive into my closet to find the leather pair I got on a trip to Milan many years ago. Now, after some Amazon browsing, I’m excited to incorporate these Mary Jane flats into my wardrobe. The leather material gives them an elevated, tasteful look, so it’s doubtful you’ll fall into “who wore it better?” with a toddler at the playground.

Calvin Klein Women’s Grant Loafers

It all started with the Gucci loafer; it went from the streets of Milan to the hallways on Capitol Hill. I’m in the land of the stylish loafer that took the world by storm. The Calvin Klein Grant Loafer makes you feel like you’re wearing an expensive leather glove—on your feet.

Now, with everything 90s on trend, a more all-terrain loafer is a great look, with this one being super playground-friendly. I love pairing my lug-soled loafers with wide-fit jeans for an elevated casual look.

Ugg Ashton Chelsea Boot

These UGG Chelsea boots are a classic and effortlessly transition from your fall to winter wardrobe. They are one of those stylish rainy-day alternatives with waterproof leather and a rubber sole. With jeans tucked in or an ankle-grazing maxi skirt, I like that these boots are perfect for trekking during the day but stylish enough for a sleek aperitivo in the evening.  

Mona Flying Oxford Brogue Shoes

My favorite pair of brogues are beautiful, but honestly, years later, I’m still waiting for them to break in. I’ve got my eye on these oxford brogues for their plush insole and 100% leather material. 

A style tip? Switch out the leather laces for black ribbon and channel cool “art school girl.” 

London Fog Riding Boot

Horse girl style may be in now, but riding boots have always been my go-to fall essential—particularly a chocolate brown pair my mom and I found in 2006 at Daffy’s on 59th Street (New Yorkers know). I’ve worn riding boots with dresses and tucked them into jeans. Choose from three colors and regular and wide-width size options. 

Cushionaire Clogs With Faux Fur Lining

Planning for my daughter to start nursery and knowing that our family sometimes runs a little late, I’m currently hunting for a cool, comfy slip-on shoe I can run out of the house in. Plus, I often see this shoe style in the window of chic boutiques in Northern Italy, styled with neutral-colored wide-legged jeans and cozy fall knits. This pair’s faux shearling lining and genuine suede upper are super soft. 

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