It’s time to get those Winter boots out – is it comfort over style?

It’s time to put away the sandals and summer dresses, winter is just around the corner. One of our favourite things about the A/W season is finding a new pair of boots, a pair that will see you through the rain, sleet and snow while still looking stylish. The key to finding a great pair of boots is to stick to the classics, styles that will remain on trend year after year. Yes, it might make a dent in your bank balance, but if you add up how much money you would spend replacing cheaper pairs that lose their sole after a few weeks, it really does pay off.
If you haven’t decided on the right pair to see you through to 2017, we’ve rounded up our all-time favourite styles to help you find the perfect match.

Over the Knee

If you’re a fan of the over the knee style, you’re not alone. Each year we see this style paraded on catwalks and styled by celebrities, they’re a winter classic that will never go out of fashion. This style of boot really came into its own in the 60’s, before this any boot worn over the ankle was worn for utilitarian purposes, but the 60’s cemented it as a style staple. In 1963, Yves Saint Laurent created a collected of knee high leather boots that put the trend on the map. Paired with a Mary Quant mini skirt, it was the look that defined a generation.
Today, you can pair over the knee boots with everything from snug skinny jeans to floaty tea dresses, they’re a go-to style and perfect for keeping you warm and protected, even when the weather is at its worst. There’s a wide range of styles to choose from when searching for that perfect pair of over knee boots. We love a chunky heel style, perfect for giving an outfit that additional ‘edge’. Stretch styles are also perfect for those looking for comfort as well as style, perfect for keeping you snug through the season.

Chelsea boots

Who doesn’t love Chelsea boots? This versatile style has enjoyed a huge resurgence over the last decade and we can see why. Dating back to the Victorian era, the Chelsea boot was worn by both men and women as riding boots. The close fitting, ankle high style is easily recognisable due to the elasticated side panel and fabric tab at the back. Today, there is a wide range of Chelsea boots available, from the classic flats to chunky heels, in an array of shades.
Chelsea boots are incredibly versatile and if looked after, will last a lifetime (seriously, make use of your local cobbler and you could save a fortune!) Ideal for day and night, we love pairing with skinny jeans for a casual look, or throwing on with a LBD and tights for a low-key evening outfit. If you’re planning on being on your feet all day, the Chelsea boot is a real life saver and with so many designers putting their own spin on the classic, it’s easy to find the right pair for you.

UGG

Whether you love or hate them, there’s no denying that when it comes to comfort – UGG rules supreme. Now, when we’re talking about UGGs, we’re talking about the real deal, the Australian staple that originated as a comfortable shoe for surfers to wear once they had finished riding the waves. Often copied, the original UGGs offer support, comfort and (if worn with the right outfit) style. UGGs have evolved over the years and there’s not a wide range of styles to choose from, perfect for the colder months. Whether you prefer the original tan or black classic boot, or their newer waterproof suede ankle boots, there’s something to suit all tastes.
Keep your UGG look casual, with skinny jeans tucked into the boot and a long, cosy sweater or scarf. We all know when UGGs start to become less of a boot and more of a slipper, usually when you’re spotted dashing to the shops on a Sunday morning. Avoid the style police and keep your UGGs the way they should be, a great footwear option and a lifesaver for those colder days!

Ankle boots

Ankle boots can take on many forms, from lace ups to platforms, patterned to neutral. As one of the most popular boot styles for A/W, ankle boots are a great option for those looking for boots that will take them from the office to the bar, staying stylish every step of the way. Ankle boots were once seen as the ‘safe’ choice when it comes to fashion, however over the years designers have taken the humble ankle boot and transformed it into hundreds of different variations. Take a look at any A/W catwalk and you will see models wearing ankle boots with sky high spike heels, peep toes and the current ‘it’ trend of Victoriana lace ups. Yes, these may not be suitable for a day in the office, but with so many options available, you don’t have to compromise practicality for style this winter.
Ankle boots look great with skinny jeans, slightly rolled up to ensure you really show off the boot. They’re also ideal for pairing with evening outfits, skirts, dresses and even shorts with a pair of winter-proof tights, they’re the boot that just keeps on giving.

Steve Cochrane

www.psyche.co.uk