Now that autumn has well and truly begun, it’s time to pack away your summer sandals and start investing in your winter footwear. Boots are a staple item come September, and a few decent pairs should last you until the end of the season. Once winter hits though, it’s typical to become slightly more uniform in your look; to forego your dainty dresses and fierce AF jumpsuits for something a little subdued. If this is your jeans-and-a-jumper-every-day season, then it’s time to mix things up. Sure, we love denim and knitwear as much as the next person, but there’s still a place for dressing up despite the cold – we’ll prove it.
The ‘Goes with Anything’ Ankle Boot
When it comes to everyday wear, you can’t go wrong with a low-heeled ankle boot. Choose a neutral colour (black or tan is your best bet), so that you can throw them on with almost anything. Daily denim? Check. Day dresses? Check.
Wear with:
Cosy up in an easy to wear jumper dress. Look out for something that you can layer for autumn; a simple crew neckline is ideal for wearing over a roll-neck top.
The Platform-Heeled Boot
Just because the weather’s cooled down, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t venture out at the weekends. Whether you’ve got a date night planned or you’re heading for cocktails with the girls, don’t let the British winter limit you; stand tall in a statement pair of platform-heeled boots that’ll stop your toes from getting frostbite. Yes, even in a pair of 5-inch heels, practicality still comes into play!
Wear with:
Do modern disco dressing just in time for party season by pairing your platforms with a glitzy jumpsuit. Whether you go for head-to-toe sparkle or a subtle smattering of sequins, a wide-leg silhouette or culotte bottoms will prevent your 70s-inspired outfit from looking outdated.
The Statement Shoe Boot
Shoe boots are the perfect day to night shoe. Depending on how you wear them, they can be low-key and conservative or stylishly high-impact. So, whether it’s cocktail hour or the first hour of work on a Monday morning, a statement shoe boot will see you through this season with ease.
Wear with:
If you’re looking for real versatility, a midi dress will work wonders. Choose something that’s fairly understated and keep the silhouette simple (so that you can wear it in the office). Go for a muted colour and keep your prints subtle too; make a statement south of the ankles instead (with a killer pair of shoe boots).
The Fringed Suede Boot
Suede boots are a firm (and annual) favourite. Ever since Kate Moss stepped out in her Minnetonka moccasin boots for the very first time a decade or so ago, the fringed suede boot has become synonymous with carefree bohemian fashion. Stick to classic hues like tan or black; there’s enough going on here without adding garish colours into the mix.
Wear with:
Embrace the haute hippie trend in its entirety by pairing your bohemian boots with a pretty smock blouse and some off-duty denim à la Kate. On milder days, swap out your jeans for a pair of denim cut-offs; wear with opaque tights and layer up with knits and a jacket to stay warm.
The Buckle Boots
Buckle boots are ideal if you’re looking for something that’s both eclectic and versatile. Choose a flat-heeled pair so that you can wear them on a normal day, but bear in mind that you can easily dress these up too; they’re perfect for toughening up smart-casual mini dresses if you’re in for a low-key night out.
Wear with:
Go from flower child to Victoriana by pairing an embroidered dress with your buckle boots. After all, a pointed toe and two-tone patent finish just begs to be worn with moody florals and black lace accents.
