We all wish we could wear sandals and strappy heels all year long, but when temperatures drop and snow starts to fly, priorities change. Of course, you still want to look great, but you’ve got to be practical too: soggy toes and frosty feet are the last things you want. Fortunately, there are plenty of shoes that will keep you comfortably in style at work and at play throughout the cold months.
Keep these trends in mind to keep your toes toasty:
* Spectators. The two-tone leather, the intricate details – what’s not to love? There are a wide range of options based on the classic spectator shoe, from soaring heels to flats. They’re a great cold-weather option because they have closed toes and pair well with many of winter’s lady-like style trends that recall classic vintage looks. Christian Louboutin shoes come in a covetable version that combines a slim, tall heel with a delicate leather lace-up front.
* Booties. The contrast of feminine dresses with bold shoes has been a trend throughout summer, and it works equally well going into fall and winter. Pairing Prada shoes – like their black leather platform booties detailed with a gold metal “harness” around the back of the heel – with tights and a classic little black dress is the perfect way to make a modern statement with restrained embellishment. Whether you pair them with a skirt or wear them with trousers for work, booties are a stylish way to stay warm.
* Tall boots. Walking down icy city streets is a trick in any pair of shoes, but it can be even more difficult in pumps. Boots can make your walk a bit more stable, particularly if you choose a low-heeled version. Cole Haan shoes come in a number of great low-heel versions that are functional and good looking – no big puffy boots necessary. Of course, high-heeled boots will always be in, and they’re a great option for dressing up during the holiday season.
When you’re getting dressed up for holiday parties, don’t give in to the urge to arrive in fuzzy boots, only to take them off for the evening. Cold weather shoe shopping is just as much fun as the summer, particularly when you can find great designer shoes at low prices on the Internet.
There are plenty of great shoe options for fall and winter if you choose your fabrics and styles wisely. If you’re worried about water or salt damage, treat your shoes with protective sprays or rubs before you head out, and clean them as needed.