BOOT PURSUIT

Words: Leila Petersen | Images: Supplied

Now that winter is in full swing, outerwear reigns supreme, which means your footwear needs to match. And no style of shoe merges fashion and functionality quite like a boot.

As is the case with most fashion items, there are simply too many boot options available- tall, mid-calf, ankle, heeled, flat- so how exactly do you choose? To help narrow the field, we’ve consulted a few key players in the fashion and footwear industry to reveal the must-have styles they are most excited about.

What boot is essential this winter?

The hiking boot.

What do you love about it?

I love that it strikes a balance between fashionability and practicality. It’s a boot that belongs outdoors and in a way represents a sense of escapism and freedom after the past year of lockdown.

Any special key features we should look out for when purchasing the hiking boot?

A slight heel and padding at the top for comfort; a chunky enough sole to avoid the rain puddles; authentic hooks for a criss-cross lace-up; and a length that hits perfectly at the ankle.

What variations will we be seeing?

Multi-textured & contrasting-coloured versions, classic all-over black, sneaker-boot silhouettes, and though it needs protection from wet weather, suede is by far the standout.

How will you be wearing them?

I’ll be wearing mine with a pair of straight cut light blue denims, a classic, fitted turtleneck, and an oversized puffer jacket.

What boot is essential this winter?

A chunky track sole combat boot is currently my winter must-have!

What do you love about it?

I love a good platform shoe- anything that gives me a bit of height is a yes for me so naturally i was drawn to this boot style. Super edgy, it gives even the most feminine looks a boost of attitude.

Any special key features we should look out for when purchasing this style of boot?

There are so many special key features to look out for depending on your personal style: the thickness of the sole, various textures (matte, glossy, etc.), lace-up styles, zipped up silhouettes or ones that buckle up.

What variations will we be seeing?

What really sets them apart are details such as the zip placement, the shape of the toe and the length of style you choose. And then of course you have the choice of different soles- rubber or plastic- which could also change the look of the boot completely.

How will you be wearing them?

I find that this chunky boot works well when paired with short/midi dresses.

I’ll be wearing mine with a short oversized knitted dress worn under a maxi trench coat for some layering.

What boot is essential this winter?

Vogue magazine has termed this boot the, "wear anywhere exemplar". The boot has a midi heel length, it's slouchy, round-toed and can be dressed up or down. The boot, it's quite reminiscent of the 60's boots that the ever-so-stylish Joburg factory workers used rock from work to play.

What do you love about it?

The comfort and most importantly the nostalgia! I remember my grandmother and her friends mincing around in boots without a care in the world rocking the most insane leather trenches worn over pleated skirts, matching cardis and pullovers and of course the beret.

Any special key features we should look out for when purchasing this style?

This "wear-anywhere" silhouette just keeps reinventing itself over the years. When you invest in a pair you are guaranteed to wear it for years to come. This style is an investment piece so it will be on the pricier side of things - genuine leather. That said a safe colour-way like black or brown allows you to get maximum wear out of them as they go with any look.

What variations will we be seeing?

From two-tone variations, patent leather to even variation in heel size. You definitely will be spoiled for choice when it comes to this style.

How will you be wearing them?

I'm definitely stealing a page from grandmother and wearing them with a pleated skirt (which are very popular right now). But I'm also going to dress them a little down with a pair of fitted corduroy pants and oversized knitwear.

What boot is essential this winter?

The Over-The-Knee boot is the style to invest in this winter.

What do you love about it?

I love it, because no matter what you pair them with, these boots make you feel sexy. And for the obvious reason – it will keep you warm!

Any special key features we should look out for when purchasing this style of boot?

I prefer one with a thicker heel, it is more comfortable. If you are not sure about the length of the boot, go for one that is knee-high. If you tend to wear mostly back, opt for a black boot, same goes with brown. And if you can afford it, buy it in leather, it looks more stylish and it will last longer.

What variations will we be seeing?

Very tight to slouchy, suede or leather, even laced-up or shiny in a variety of colours fabrics and shapes.

How will you be wearing them?

Designers like Victoria Beckham and Proenza Schouler sent their models down the runway with over-the-knee boots paired with mid-length skirts and coats- which has now inspired me to do the same.

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What boot is essential this winter?

The statement boot.

What do you love about it?

After a year of living in slippers, our usual efforts to perfect our winter looks took a backseat to comfort dressing. As we’re slowly easing back into some degree of normality, we can start re-energising our wardrobes – and the easiest way to do that is with a pair of statement boots! I love the idea that a single unique piece can transform your entire look, and add a layer of creativity to your outfit without having to undertake a complete wardrobe overhaul.

Any special key features we should look out for when purchasing this style of boot?

Look out for any details that add interest to your everyday basic boot – it can be bold elements such as chain detailing, chunky buckles, lug soles, heel interest, striking prints and bold colours, or more subtle features such as D-ring lacing, sock silhouettes, two-tone neutrals or a surprising texture. There is no need to sacrifice comfort for style as the heel heights are still manageable, despite the boldness of this trend. Whether you are a minimalist or a maximalist, there are so many ways to incorporate this trend into your daily wardrobe.

What variations will we be seeing?

There is no shortage of interpretations of this trend – from 80’s style platforms, jewellery-like embellishments, sculptural heels, texture, bold colour and print – there are numerous ways in which you can adopt this maximalist aesthetic. For a more conservative approach, experiment with an intriguing heel detail – it adds some oomph to your style but is not overtly flashy.

How will you be wearing your style of boot this season?

I’ll be letting my boots do the talking this season by keeping the rest of the look relatively clean and neutral. Whichever statement style you gravitate towards will likely complement the outfits you already have in your wardrobe, and you can simply elevate your go-to winter uniform with a striking piece of footwear that will add a dramatic flair to your everyday look. I’ll be pairing my chunky 80s platforms with an oversized coat and straight-cut ankle grazing denims for an elevated yet effortless look.