Essential Footwear for the Winter Season

Jack Frost is lurking and it's time to stow away your sandals 'til springtime and step out in something a little more practical. With the prospect of ice & snow you're going to need winter footwear which is a little more substantial than a stiletto heel or flat ballet pump, so let’s get bootilicious with this season’s winter boots!

The good news is you can be practical without compromising on style, so I’m not suggesting hiking boots or wellies this time. This seasons winter boots will look great with skinny jeans, leggings, slacks, shorts and skirts of any length, and to kick things off, I introduce the 'Wiggy' wedge boot from Wrangler. This dark brown suede ankle boot has a chunky flat sole giving excellent grip in the worst weather. Laces are the 'in' thing this season, and coupled with D-rings as opposed to eyelets certainly adds to the 'outdoors' styling of this wonderful wedge. These boots also feature a faux fur lining to keep your feet and ankles toasty and warm, whatever the weather.

Sticking with an outdoors inspired winter boot, the Blowfish 'Karona' features a very modest heel and classic boot styling with metal D-rings, a substantial sole and this season's must have; a faux shearling wool lining which can be worn 'up' for maximum warmth or folded down for maximum style. Worn with jeans, woolly tights or leggings, this is definitely one of this winter's must have styles.

On a more feminine note, but still a substantial winter boot is the effortlessly effeminate 'Vivianna' ankle boot from Hush Puppies. Combining suede and leather with nine pairs of lace hooks gives this formal winter boot a Victorian edge thanks to its modest flared heel and classic styling. Wear with a posh frock or skinny jeans, these fantastic winter boots can dress up or dress down, either way, they're an absolute triumph.

My fourth and final choice for this season's ultimate winter warmer is a classic knee high. The 'Erika' knee high boot from Fly London is available in brown 'oily' suede (pictured) or red 'rug' leather with brown and black options available closer to Christmas. Mounted on an out-stitched wedge sole, this knee high winter boot blends style and practicality to create a comfortable, fashionable and frankly essential winter boot. Every woman needs a knee high boot and this winter, this is it.

All of these winter wonders are currently available from www.shoes.co.uk: a Great British Company, and one of my favourite shoe shops!