When you think of cold weather and winter shoes, you probably think of trudging through slush and snow in heavy winter boots. And while they obviously perform great in the winter months and keep your feet warm & toasty, are they the types of shoes you want to wear all day, every day? Fall and winter footwear can be fun, exciting and fashionable with so many styles to match your daily wardrobe and mood. (Winter depression be damned!). Look no further for the top trending shoes for women. Here are the 7 shoe trends you need to know for this fall and winter season with top choices to shop for each trend.
I. Ballerina Flats and Heels
Ballet flats have been trending for a while and show no signs of slowing down. In fact, there are now more variations than ever! Simply put, they are just the right pair of shoes for so many occasions. For this fall/ winter, designers have created embellished styles with studs and pearls, Mary Jane details and heeled options taking the popular, comfortable fit of the flats to new levels. (I am obsessed with these black Balenciaga ballerina pumps!) With so many colors, fabrics and styles you are bound to find the perfect pair.
II. Biker Boots
Chelsea boots and other ankle boots will always be around and on trend, but biker boots are taking center stage this season. If you are looking for a new pair of boots to wear with jeans and dresses alike, this style is for you. Aside from being on trend, the good news is that they double as both rain boots in the fall and great shoes for winter when the temperature drops. They are also practical in winter weather as the rubber soles have good traction on slippery surfaces. While most designers are staying true to the biker boot’s roots in black leather, you can also find some lighter colors like this Tony Bianco style.
III. Ladylike Pumps
With the lady-like trend this fall, you need lady-like pumps. Most of us already have a classic pair of black pumps in our wardrobe, so try making a fashion statement with fancy embellished pumps like this studded pair from L’agence. Or try one in trend-forward animal prints from Sam Edelman or sheer fabric from Saint Laurent. If you want a classic look with a twist try Stuart Weitzman’s kitten heels in burgundy or his slingbacks in cream. (a favorite brand of mine!) Don’t settle for “regular dress shoes” when there are so many different types of stylish pumps to take your look to the next level this season.
IV: Cozy Winter Shoes
Move over Ugg boots, you’ve got stiff (er, soft) competition this year. Who doesn’t want these as a staple in their winter wardrobe? Whether you live in colder climates or just want something super cozy on your feet in the winter months, all of these variations are a great choice. The trend runs the gamut from cozy boots to sherpa mules to fur line sandals. They are the best winter shoes for anyone who wants to amp up their casual winter style this year.
V. Over-The-Knee Boots
Knee-high boots are now going to extremes as the tall boots are trending even higher. And who doesn’t like more leg-coverage in the colder months. Seasonal footwear trends come and go, but tall boots are always a winter staple. Paired with mini skirts and shorts, you now have more shoe choices to take you through the fall and winter. I tend to like neutral colors like black, rich brown or beige in high quality materials like supple leather and suede.
VI: Mules
Mules’ stylish design is being translated into every type of shoe this season from clogs to pumps to cozy slip-ons so there is a perfect choice for everyone to get in on the trend. Mules are extremely versatile shoes that go with so many outfits and can easily be dressed up or down. Favorite shoes among the style set, you can see them everywhere on the runway and street style pics. Mules are also stylish fall & winter shoes to have on hand when you need to slip on something quickly and run out the door!
VII: Loafers
Loafers have been trending for some time and this fall there is more variety than ever. With flat loafers for those who love a classic look (like Veronica Beard’s suede penny loafers) to sky-high options for those whose personal preference leans more edgy (like Stuart Weitzman’s lug sole loafers). Either way loafers are comfortable shoes that don’t compromise on style and go back to virtually any outfit, casual or dressy. They are the perfect choice if you like shoes that stand the test of time and will be a mainstay in your wardrobe for years.
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