Boots and booties are the most popular footwear for fall and winter. However, you run the risk of falling into a style rut if you don’t put some variety into your footwear wardrobe. Luckily, this season there are a number of trends outside the boot and bootie category. Adding just one new style can create dozens of new outfit options.
Oxfords go beyond basic boots and booties for fall and winter. (Nordstrom)
Oxfords
This flat laceup style can be extremely versatile and comfortable. An oxford will look just as stylish paired with jeans and a favorite weekend sweater as it will with the right dress and tights. You can find oxfords in patent leather to dress up your date night look or in boiled wool for an effortlessly pulled together look for a day of shopping.
Pointy flats are a good option for those who don’t want to wear heels. (Nordstrom)
Pointy flats
Some women have an aversion to pointy shoes thinking they’re “witch-like” and uncomfortable. But in reality, a pointy flat doesn’t go out of style and works to elongate the line of your leg. And when you look longer, you look leaner.
A pointy flat can be the perfect option for someone who cannot wear heels to dress up an evening or professional look. And they aren’t as uncomfortable as some think. If you find pointy toes uncomfortable, try them in a half size larger than normal. To create that uninterrupted visual line, match the shoe to your pants or tights.
Sporty sneakers can liven up jeans and much more. (Nordstrom)
Sneakers
Sneakers are a big trend now, and women are wearing them with everything from dress pants to dresses. There is a fine line between looking chic in this trend and looking ridiculous. If this trend is something you’d like to try (and who would blame you because sneaks are so comfy) avoid wearing the sneakers you wear to the gym with anything but your gym gear. Follow that one simple rule, and you’re bound to look adorable. Look for sneakers that are more sporty than athletic. You may want to start with the classic Converse then graduate to something even sportier if you’re more daring. For inspiration, find a look you admire in a magazine or online that incorporates sneakers and mimic the look. A cool pair of sneakers can make your everyday outfits look contemporary and fresh again.
Loafers won’t go out of style and new versions are slimmer. (Nordstrom)
Loafers
The loafer is a slip-on flat that is a great option for any pair of pants, from boyfriend jeans to a stylish pair of culottes. Though they can often be too square for skirts and dresses, you can pull them off if you wear a slimmer, sleeker version. The loafer is a classic that will never go out of style, so feel free to make this an investment item.
If you’re telling yourself you can’t wear anything but boots in winter because your feet will get cold, try the SmartWool “no show” socks. They’ll keep your feet snug and warm even on the coldest days.
And if you’re not daring enough to try something new, there is no commitment to trying something on. You might just find that you don’t want to take them off.