Stepping into a Bootylicious winter

I love stepping into sexy strappy sandals as much as the next girl, but the thought of stepping out in this kind of footwear in the cooler months doesn’t thrill me quite so much - strappy sandals with rain (or snow) just doesn’t match.

Every winter I’m faced with the same conundrum – do I brave the chill in sandals without tights? Or sacrifice fashion for the sake of avoiding frost-bitten feet and wear my open-toe platforms with tights – or worse – the dreaded pop-sock?!

I’m obviously not alone in this dilemma. Women everywhere have eagerly embraced the skinny-jeans-tucked-in-knee-high-boots look for the past couple of winters. However, whilst this style is great for day, unless the boots are really dressy they can create a look that is just too casual for evening.

So this year I’m pleased that there is a sophisticated solution that will also keep my feet warm and dry! Booties, whether ankle or shoe-boot, are the must have footwear of the season and there’s a huge range of styles available - with the trendiest retro designs giving an emphatic nod to the 70’s and 80’s.

Platform ankle boots, shoe-boots, round or pointed toes, suede and leather – there is a style for every occasion. What’s more, they’re totally versatile and can be worn with dresses, skirts, shorts, trousers and of course your skinny jeans. And if you still need further convincing, celebrity fashionistas including Mischa Barton, Sienna Miller, Kate Moss and Victoria Beckham have all been sporting them with dresses and skirts in recent weeks.

Hold on to your knee-highs for day, but put your best foot forward and invest in a pair of booties for cooler winter evenings.

Main picture: Neda distressed leather shoe boot, $330.00 – www.bebe.com.

Below from left to right: Red patent leather shoe boot, £65.00 www.faith.com, Pedro Garcia round toe platform ankle boot in “Café” suede, $426.00 www.shopbop.com, Andromeda patent-leather lace-up platform shoe boot, £75.00 www.carvela.com.

Liz Southall - Fashion Editor