How to Pick Shoes for Winter

When the weather gets cold, pairing functionality with fashion can prove a challenge. There is a way to find shoes appropriate to the season without compromising any of the style, though. Read on to find out how.

Instructions

For Him

1. Choose a sleek leather ankle boot, and you'll have fashion on your side as you keep your feet and ankles warm. Lacing styles are generally dressier and are a good choice for casual business wear.

2. Find a duck boot that combines the sophistication of suede with the practicality of rubber when you want to look good and stay dry.

3. Trade in your old work boots for a trendy spin on the look. Chic black leather accented with a bold metal zipper or buckle and combined with the utility of a thick rubber sole means you'll be ready to work in any weather condition in style.

4. Look for a vintage-style sneaker as an alternative to the traditional tennis shoe for casual weekend wear. While this look may not be new, it's a more fashionable statement than its athletics-inspired counterpart.

For Her

1. Choose warm, luxurious fabrics and textures to keep your feet toasty when the weather gets cold. Velvet, velour and suede are perfect for the season and allow your feet to make a fashion statement while keeping warm.

2. Look for shoes in the rich colors of the season: deep plum, chocolate, crimson and gold. These will give off a warm look just right for cooler months.

3. Opt for faux fur trimming on shoes for an added layer of warmth. It's not just for boots anymore: faux fur trimming can be found on other styles as well, such as mules and clogs.

4. Spice up your winter shoe wardrobe by choosing styles bedecked with rhinestones, metal buckles, beading and other such accents. Just because it's winter, that's no reason for your shoes to be dull and drab.

5. Go for knee-high styles to keep your lower legs encased in warmth. Paired with heavy tights, this choice won't leave you out in the cold.

6. Select boots based on your personal need. If you will be wearing them in a lot of snow or wet conditions, you probably need a heavy-duty snow boot. If you are simply wanting to keep your feet toasty while looking good at the same time, choose something more along the lines of a suede ankle boot with a fashionable side zipper.

Tips & Warnings

• An important factor to keep in mind any time you are looking for winter shoes is the traction provided by the sole of the shoe. If you want to be able to wear your shoes in adverse weather conditions, look for a rubber sole with treading that will provide sufficient traction on ice and water.