Every year when winter rolls around, I find myself struggling to choose the perfect shoes to wear. Usually, I end up grabbing a pair of Ugg’s or throwing on sneakers, resigning myself to the belief that winter just isn’t a good time for shoe addicts. This year, I decided to shatter the shoe glass ceiling and branch out to find good pairs of shoes to amp up my fashion game. While it’s tempting to stick with comfort and familiar shoes, trying new styles and shoes made me feel more confident and trendy, words I would never have associated with my sense of style. Here are some of my personal favorite boots for the winter, especially ones that are durable and reasonable for the constant changing Pittsburgh weather.
Doc Martens
I always dismissed Doc Martens, saying I wasn’t edgy enough to pull them off. I finally invested in a pair and realized that the classic black combat boots can go with almost anything! Throw them on with some leggings, a sweatshirt, and fuzzy socks? Cute and comfy. If you want to do something different, there’s a wide array of colors for you to choose from to stand out from the crowd.
Hunter Rain Boots
Hunter rain boots are my absolute favorite pair of boots. They’re perfect in snow, rain, or sun. They’re extremely comfortable and manage to keep my feet warm, which is key for Pittsburgh winters. They also come in a variety of styles, from knee high to ankle, so you can choose based on your own style and preference. Hunter boots also offer different colors, ranging from classic black to a light blue or even a pink. They’re essential for anyone who lives in a rainy or snowy area.
L.L. Bean Boots
While Bean boots have become a huge trend on campus and you may roll your eyes at this suggestion, don’t dismiss them quite yet. If you tie these bad boys up loose, you can slide them on easily and avoid blisters. They also pair amazingly with flannels in the winter, as well as sweatshirts. Yes, they are extremely over-worn and popular, but I fully embrace them and wear them all the time.
Børn Cove Waterproof Chelsea Booties
Børn’s ankle high leather booties are a cute, classic bootie that go well with anything. They’re super stylish and work well when you’re going out, as they are trendy and less industrial, while still keeping your feet warm. They take some time to break in, but overall they are a good quality shoe and a classic look that you can’t go wrong with.
Any Halogen Boot
Halogen shoes are my favorite go to. They are so extremely comfy and cute. This company is more of a fashion one, while the other boots are classic staples. Halogen has plenty of styles of boots and patterns for each boot, so you essentially can find any shoe in this brand to match your needs. Whether it’s studying at Hillman or going out in South Oakland, these boots do the job.
Any Steve Madden Boot
Another reliable and versatile brand, Steve Madden shoes take up the majority of my closet. While they are uncomfortable at first, once you break them in, they become your best friend. Their over the knee boot is one of my favorite for going out, and their rain boots have come in handy many a time last winter.
While it may be hard to break away from the classic Ugg look this winter, these popular items are a great way to spruce up your look while staying trendy and comfy. Trying new shoes is a way to brighten up your day when it’s dreary out and a way to beat the winter blues by treating yourself. So, hop on a bus and head out to your favorite shoe store, you deserve it!