Put the boot in this winter

One of the most difficult parts of winter dressing and one that people can really struggle with is getting your footwear right. It’s so easy in summer to wear a sandal or a pump but in winter we need practical footwear that can be hard to style with the rest of your wardrobe.

We are now well and truly in boots season and along with your winter coat, your boots are the most hard working pieces in your winter wardrobe.

There are so any options out there that it can be a minefield and let’s not even go there when it goes to party season footwear.

For day to day wear, there are a plethora of options but sometimes the most simplest shoe is the best one to choose.

For me you cannot go wrong with a Dr Marten or a Chelsea boot.

I have a pair of both in black and they are very practical while also seem to magically work well with most things in the wardrobe.

I invested in black Docs many moons ago and they still look perfect despite being worn on repeat year after year. I wear mine under denim and also they work super well styled with winter dresses.

If you want a more softer look, then invest in the classic Chelsea boot. This typically flat style with round toe and elongated ankle length can be worn with so many different outfits and lends a chic element to your look.

If I’m not sure on what footwear to wear with something I always pull out this boot and my favourite pair has a slight heel which can be worn dressy also.

In the last few years designers have given this classic a little update and you can now find knee high styles and also versions with a thick, chunky sole.

One of my favourite ways to wear the chunkier style is with a mini skirt, over sized striped knit and a camel overcoat. These are lots of wardrobe staples combined to create a timeless look.

Another classic way to style the boots is with straight leg jeans, a knit and long overcoat. Accessorise with a gorgeous leather bag and gold jewellery.

This boot can even be worn for a night out and can lend an edge to your party wear.

Style a chunky pair of Chelsea boots with a slip dress and chunky, statement jewellery and an oversized blazer combining comfort and style.

When picking your winter boots there are a few things to always consider. Leather and nylon are always very durable and will come pre-treated to protect against the elements. You’ll get years out of these boots and while I adore a suede boot with wet Irish weather, it’s the type of material I will generally avoid.

Also always check the sole of the shoe. Make sure it’s not slippy so look for bumps and crevices to give you that bit more grip.

Lastly ensure the boot is comfortable both height wise but also just with wearing in general. I treated myself to a beautiful pair of leather boots a few years back but the leather was so stiff that every time I wore them they cut the backs of my ankles and I just never reached for them when picking a shoe.

Sometimes you can get the shoe maker to stretch the leather making them a bit more comfortable but it’s best to buy them comfortable from day one.