As the winter approaches, many women are thinking about one major investment opportunity: a great pair of boots. While boots are a practical footwear choice for most, some pairs out there don't do much beyond look nice. Just like any other kind of women's wardrobe item, boots range in sizes, styles, and purposes. Finding a pair that unites fashion with function can be a challenge, but it's not impossible.
Boot Shopping Tips
There are a few general things to keep in mind as you select your next pair of women's boots. First, consider their function. If you plan to wear them while shoveling, skip the stilettos. If your boots have an intended purpose, like hiking or skiing, you want to stick to specialty designs and avoid the trendy pairs. For everything else, you can find a pair that meets in the middle to provide a stylish set of footwear that will hold up to that blizzard. Consider the materials used, the way they fit your feet, and the height of the heel as well -- make sure you can walk in them!
Types of Boots to Shop
Depending on what you're wearing them for, a whole world of boot styles are open to you when you shop. Understanding what top-selling styles you'll be faced with can help you navigate the racks more easily.
- Super sleek boots are a timeless, classic choice that can also be worn in other seasons. These are usually leather or suede and extend up to the knee, with a small heel. If you want something that's sexy and eye-catching, and could hold up to the snow or rain, depending on the material, look for boots like these. The High-Heeled Boots by ELLE Footwear for $199 are a personal favorite.
- Wooly, cable-knit boots are warm and cozy for winter, as long as you're indoors. Don't try to wear these trendy items outside to shovel! To get the city-meets-country look, try the Women's Honeypup Cableknit boots by Rocket Dog--an affordable, but attractive, choice.
- Hardcore, tough-looking boots are always in as well. For something harder, edgier, opt for these many-buckled, lace-up, and hardware-clad choices. Harley Davidson makes some great styles of "tough" boots that look good on or off the motorcycle, in or out of the snow.
References:
- CBS News. Boot Buying Guide for Fall, Winter.
- So You Wanna. Different Boots for Women.
