By Dana DeMercurio
By now you’ve put away your beloved sneakers, your tattered flats, and your sun-soaked sandals (except for Floridians, of course). It might be a struggle for you to part with your fall favorites, but with the changing of the weather inevitably comes the changing of our footwear. And while most find this time as an excuse to purchase the latest and greatest in fashion-forward designs, be sure to follow our guide to fun and functional kicks for the whole family this winter season.
Shoe shopping for kids is always tough; are parents supposed to choose between affordability and utility? Between style and comfort? Why not opt for all? We suggest a shoe by Primigi, which has all the modern styles combined with Italian craftsmanship to give children ranging from preschool to high school the very best in fashion footwear.
With the latest and greatest technology and innovation, Primigi has created a line of shoes introducing Gore-Tex, a super-durable, highly-breathable, and not to mention waterproof protection guaranteed to outlast even the toughest of tots. Styles including ‘Adel’ for girls and ‘Anders’ for boys make the perfect gifts this holiday season.
Tweens and teens can be the pickiest of shoppers, especially when it comes to shoes. Keeping up with the latest trends can be hard, but Primigi makes it easy. From sneakers to slip-ons, from boots to back-to-school flats, Primigi has all the styles your kids are looking for, in the perfect size and color. Styles including ‘Giulio’, ‘Arnad’ and ‘Choate’ are sure to please teen boys, while girls will step out in comfort with a pair of ‘Jamielee’ boots or ‘Phoebe’ flats.
As for men, it’s time to ditch the clunky, faux leather lace-ups that have stepped out to one too many Christmas parties in the past. Switch things up this season with a stylish and ever-so-classy pair of brogue boots. Nothing says “I’m a gentleman” like a streamlined wardrobe complete with a slim contoured shoe, free of bulky soles and thick laces. Try this boot in a high-top style to keep warm wherever you are this winter.
Not a fan of laces? Neither is the loafer. If you’re too busy to bend over and tie your shoes, try slipping on a refined pair of penny loafers to complete your look. This just happens to be the perfect in-between shoe: admittedly not as fancy as dressy lace-ups, but not nearly as casual as a pair of sneakers. Designers such as Cole Haan, Perry Ellis, Donald J Pliner and Salvatore Ferragamo have mastered the loafer, adding modern flair that updates any tired look. Though not the best if planning a trip to the snow, these shoes do provide ample support, flexibility within wardrobes, and can be worn year-round if properly polished on a regular basis.
Military/combat boots are making a serious comeback in men’s fashion, but don’t be fooled by faux-leather and over-the-top hardware. Get the hardcore edgy look by opting for a vintage, worn-leather pair of skinny lace-ups with a touch of luxury and class perfect for guys who know a thing or two about fashion. Black or brown, it doesn’t matter. Just be sure to not lace them up too tight; keep things loose for a trendier look. Our favorites include those by Steve Madden, Robert Wayne, John Varvatos and Frye.
Think all boots are created equal, ladies? Think again. Don’t stock up on cheap knockoffs this winter, it never pays off. We suggest thinking of boots as an investment opportunity; the “hand-stitched” detail and the ornate embellishments that lure you in can’t mask their inability to make it past the first harsh-weather season. Snow, sleet, and rain can wreak havoc on your footwear, especially if the product is not up to par.
This season, remember to armor yourself with stylish, comfortable and reliable footwear to battle the frigid temperatures, while still adding flair to any winter wardrobe.
Looking for luxury? Snakeskin booties may be the best choice for you. Try a pair by Zara or Rachel Roy for the very best in fashion-forward footwear. Want to kick things up a notch? Go bold or go home with a pair of studded biker boots perfect for when heels just won’t do. Sam Edelman, Rachel Zoe and Swildens have all the bad-ass looks to get your through the cold in serious style.
Need help choosing the boot that’s right for you? Take a peek at our favorite winter-wonderful boots to put on your Christmas list this year:
