As winter deepens so too does the need for a seasonal footwear update. Whether it’s a new pair of boots to march you around town, or some dainty flats that don’t mind being crammed with socks, what you want is something versatile and yet — of course — stylish. Here are five key shoe trends you’ll find on shelves this season:
Combat-style boots
The forward march of military-inspired fashion has proceeded on heavy, leather-clad feet. Think lace-up boots with chunky soles and an urban practicality; the kind that can add edge to a feminine winter dress or be the thematic crowning glory to an ensemble of skinny jeans and an army jacket. Some have been rendered by designers into high-heeled versions; some – like those in the winter collection of WANT Les Essentiels – are pared back to a level of cleanness and grace. Opt for classic black, brown or oxblood and they’ll be your go-to boots well into spring.
Velvet
The fashion world was quick to label velvet the fabric of the season, and the autumn / winter runways were draped in volumes of it. While dresses and blazers may strike you as the most obvious choice for a velvet affair, do consider accessories as well. Velvet evening heels are an elegant winter choice, while velvet ankle boots give any outfit a luxurious edge.
© Dune
Masculine flats
A man’s wardrobe isn’t complete without a pair of beautifully-made leather Oxfords, most can agree. As for women? We wouldn’t blame you for saying exactly the same thing. As a winter shoe they’ve both comfortable and versatile. When the days are clear and bright, bare some ankle beneath the season’s cropped tailored pants or jeans. On chillier days, wear them with a burst of colour via contrasting socks, or feminise them with tights and a dress.
Masculine flats
Retro-style
Star-spangled nods to David Bowie; glittery homages to the ’80s; unconventional reworkings of the mod movement. Footwear this season has definitely looked back to the glamour of decades past and borrowed elements like platform soles, lush embroideries and sculptural heels to keep the retro vibe alive. The options available for this trend are countless, so it’s really up to you how daring you want to go.
Metallic
From Balenciaga to Saint Laurent, there was no shortage of shimmering metallics on the autumn / winter runways. The most wearable takes of the season are those in silver, bronze, or burnished gold – though some fashion houses also dabbled in metallic fuchsia, burnt orange or even electric blue. A pair of low silver pumps will prove versatile; as will some chic metallic ankle boots.
©Jigsaw