Personally, even though the cooler weather can make me feel a little down, I do get excited to take out all of my winter boots!
Fashion has always been sort of like my security blanket; it gives me a sense of comfort during my most vulnerable days. Especially, since I suffer from seasonal affective disorder, I’d take anything that’d help me get out of bed on a dreary winter morning.
More personally, as a woman with a disability who uses a wheelchair, I always want people to see me as a person before they see the chair. I’ve always considered fashion as a way to express myself, and as an extension of my personality. I almost live for strangers to compliment my outfits, since that boosts my confidence, and can significantly make my day. A statement-making pair of boots can make the simplest outfit pop.
This is an extension of our Boots You’ll Fall in Love list. Here are the top eight types of boots that are must-haves for winter 2018 and the best kinds of outfits to pair them with:
Peep Toe Booties
Lucky Brand, $64.98 at DSW
We all know that NYC weather can be so unpredictable. I remember that just last year I was sporting a sundress on a 75-degree, sunny day in November. So it’s good to have a pair of open-toe boots for when it’s warmer than usual outside. Sometimes mother nature gifts us with early previews of spring in the depths of winter, so it’s so smart to have a pair of peep-toes for those kinds of days.
I wouldn’t wear these on a really cold day, for obvious reasons. But, if you want to keep your toes warm or hide your un-pedicured toenails, you could wear them with a pair of seamless stockings.
Style expert Stacy London explains,“You can wear tights with open-toed shoes, as long as there’s no reinforced toe or even toe seam.” The key is to make it look you’re wearing those shoes deliberately, and not look like you ran out of pairs of boots.
Chelsea Boots
Chelsea Boot,$228 at Nisolo
Chelsea boots are absolutely a must-have for fall. They’re chic, comfy, and cute! Go for a pair that’s black leather with a lighter colored sole. That way, they can go with more things in your wardrobe! It’s all about what you wear them with. You can really dress up or dress casually in Chelsea boots.
Honestly, you can never go wrong with these boots. They’re streamlined and easy to slip on and off — which is very important for me as a woman with a physical disability. Also, they’ll probably never go out of style; they have been a classic since mods made them cool in 1960s Britain.
Cheetah Ankle Boots
Halogen, $119.95 at Nordstrom
The word on the street is that leopard prints are in this season! Animal prints have long been a fashion staple for stylish women since the 1950s. But, this winter, this trend is really going to take over. Leopard slip skirt may have ruled this summer, but that was only the beginning of what we’re calling the Great Animal Print Revival.
If you’re like me and other millions of New York gals, most of the things in your fall and winter wardrobes are black. But a pair of ~wild~ ankle boots can make your outfit pop! I highly recommend pairing them with dark washed jeans if you don’t want to look too over-the-top, but still, want to show off your fun side. I’m originally from Jersey, so this leopard print revival is like a dream come true.
Over-The-Knee Boots
Style & Co, $49.75 at Macy’s
Does anyone else love wearing dresses and skirts as much as I do?
However, the major problem I always have is that stockings never keep my legs warm enough. This is when over-the-knee boots come in clutch! They look luxurious and keep your warm.
Combat Boots
Steve Madden, $79.99 at DSW
The ‘80s are back! Personally, I love wearing my combat boots when I’m running errands – pairing them with skinny jeans. They were originally designed to be worn during combat or combat training (duh, the name). So, they give good grip, ankle stability, and foot protection for rugged environments. These boots have gone mainstream again in the past decade, and designers are continuing to experiment with its shapes.
They are so durable and can survive in any weather — especially in the muddy rain. These boots also look cute with a skater dress! Or, you can also pair them with a loose, feminine dress or skirt, that has a silhouette with accents that can balance out the toughness of the shoe. Combat books can definitely make you look badass.
Kitten Heel Boots
New Look Zip Front, $49 at ASOS
Your toes will be thanking you because kitten heels are in! I love pointed toe shoes, but they often come along with stiletto heels. But, fear no more, kitten heel boots come to the rescue. You can walk all day in a pair of these boots, look extremely classy, ~and~ your feet will not be sore. This style is practical for both fancy events and commuting to work.
I especially appreciate them, because they’re one of the few kinds of heels I can actually walk in when I get out of my chair and go on the dance floor.
Stylist Rachel Wang says, “They add an instant edge to most any outfit and, best of all, the low height keeps them sensible for those who generally hate to wear heels.”
Tall Riding Boots
Sam Edelman, $149.95 at Zappos
To be honest, I don’t see riding boots ever going out of style! They are called riding boots because of their design specifics, such as length, heel, toe and outer sole, which distinctively set them apart from other boot styles. Having said that, not all women love riding boots… they’re one of those things you either love or hate, no in-betweens.
But, if you dig these boots, they are such a timeless classic, so it’s totally worth investing in a good brown leather pair. You’ll keep wearing them for years to come! The sleek silhouette is ideal for styling under a midi dress or with skinny jeans tucked inside. If your style gravitates more towards simple, vintage wear, then riding boots are a perfect match for you.
High Shine, Patent Leather Boots
Sloane Seamed Patent Ankle Boot, $69 at Urban Outfitters
Every New York gal needs that one pair of go-to boots for a girls’ night out! Patent leather boots always make an impactful statement, and they’ll help you stand out when you step on the street on a Friday night.
They have been a fashion staple since practically forever (1818 counts as forever in my books). See a common theme here? If it’s vintage, then chances are it’s trending this season.
Patent leather is trending for all articles of clothing this season. Chances are you’ll find them everywhere in stores. So you better get a pair of patent leather boots before you become the last person to get them. Don’t fall behind!
