Fall/Winter Shoe Style Guide

Do you remember New York Fashion Week? That was February, and it seems like ages ago. Well, winter is approaching again, which means we need to look back in the past to learn what the new trends will be for this winter. Why should you care? Because if you dig through your closet and pull out your old footwear, you’ll probably find it hasn’t held up as well as you might assume. Even if you dust them off and shake the spiders out, the material will probably be cracked and covered with salt stains. If you’re anticipating walking through snow and slush this winter (and if you live in New Jersey, you should be), now is the time to start looking for your new favorite style.

If dirty, salty puddles are one of the biggest hazards to your clothing, consider investing in a rugged pair of boots. Boots come in countless varieties and styles. High boots are very popular this season, especially those with a military style. However, high boots of any kind have been popular as well; the lapels have been made with fur, fabric, or leather, and most have laces, but others have zippers and metal buckles. Grooved soles are most practical in winter, but flat soles are very fashionable this season. Materials range from leather, suede, nubuck (a kind of leather similar to suede), fur, fabrics, and combinations of each. Colors are the traditional black, gray, and brown. This season, however, boots in other dark colors are on the streets. Consider trying a dark green, red, or yellow (more popularly known as olive, burgundy, and mustard, respectively). Boots with patterns have also been appearing for men; abstract, geometric, and animal prints are all in style. Boots that look like they are well-worn are also stylish, but if you cannot find any, don’t worry – you new boots will look like that before too long.

Ankle boots are seeing a surge in popularity. They are usually leather or suede, and come in black or brown. Choose whichever style suits you best: laced, zip-up, or slip-on each have their pros and cons. Laced is a classic style, but water and dirt may get in around the tongue. Some boots have a short zipper on the side, which is easy to put on, but the zipper may get clogged or stuck with dirt. Slip-ons are easiest to put on and go, but might not fit your foot correctly and may stretch prematurely. If you cannot decide whether your pant leg should be tucked into your boot or not, ankle boots may be a welcome addition to your wardrobe.

If you need something to replace your old stomping boots, there is a great variety of fashionable footwear on the market. The vast combination of laces, buckles, colors, materials, heights, and other features allow you to choose exactly what suits you best. You will probably be in style this year without too much effort at all. Bundle up and get ready for the long cold months ahead.