Seven fashion people show us the shoes getting them through winter
words by ruby fox
Pep in your step.
I always struggle to transition from summer fashion to winter. When I went to get dressed on the first cold Melbourne morning this year, I looked in my closet and realised I have six different pairs of thong heels and nothing weather-appropriate.
It’s easy to get stuck in a cycle of Ugg boots and sneakers, but with some amazing local brands and styles on the market, there’s no shortage of winter footwear options; it’s just hard sometimes to know where to look.
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While I’m not going to abandon my beloved thongs completely, I’m in dire need of a sturdier shoe. Of course, no one wants to walk around the cold, damp streets feeling like their feet are going to fall off. So, to steer myself away from open-toes for a little while, I asked a few stylish people about the pairs getting them through the winter.
Grace McCleland, digital creator

While for many, a boot is the obvious choice for the colder weather, this winter I’ve been reaching for my trusty Tabis paired with a woollen sock for warmth. They are truly so comfortable for everyday, and my absolute most-worn shoe.
Amelia McQuoid, Fashion Journal intern

This winter I’ve barely taken off my GH Bass Whitney Weejuns. I got them last September and honestly haven’t thought of my other shoes since. The GH Bass penny loafers have been around since 1936 and 90 years later, they’re still made with the same craftsmanship. They’re a classic loafer, you can see the details and feel the quality when you wear them. I love them because they’re a no-brainer that goes with everything.
Anabelle Ussher, digital creator

Melissa X Y/Project Court Mules are by far my favourite and most-worn shoe, season to season. They’re incredibly versatile, durable and add a touch of whimsy to every outfit. The pointed tip looks great peaking out from baggy jeans or even paired with socks and thermal stockings for extra warmth.
The overall silhouette is so elegant yet wearable – a small kitten heel and cushioned sole makes them a dream to walk in. They also look like Cinderella’s glass slippers, hello? Quite literally, I need them in every colour!
Lara Daly, Fashion Journal‘s Senior Editor

In winter, I always get stuck in a rut of pants and loafers, so my trusty knee-high boots are essential to mix up the silhouette. I bought these Tony Bianco boots four years ago and they’re still going strong. At the moment, I love wearing them with my Dal 1992 tights and a mini skirt – and always with a wool coat thrown over the top.
Kate Elizabeth Sharp, digital creator

As a curvy girl, finding boots that balance personal style and functionality has always felt like having to choose between the two, and usually losing either way.
But the Rocky boot from Billini’s Curve range changed that for me. I’m a firm believer that a sleek heeled boot can make even the dreariest winter morning feel iconic. These boots became my go-to throughout Fashion Week this year, but to be honest, finding a boot that survives the unpredictable Sydney weather honestly feels rarer than surviving Fashion Week without blisters.
It’s nice knowing there’s genuinely good shoes for the curvy girlies to style their little tootsies in this winter that doesn’t make you choose between style and being able to zip them up.
Ruby Fox, Fashion Journal intern

As much as I wish I was, unfortunately, I’m not much of a loafer or sneaker girl. I’m always more drawn to a ballet flat. While I’m a constant supporter of the Tabi, I’m loving the Aloha Rosalind Ballet flats at the moment – they provide a bit more coverage over the foot, and while I’m not usually one to pair socks with ballet flats, this shoe suits a colourful sock, with a little pop coming through the keyhole. They’re made from a really soft leather, so they’re extremely comfortable and perfect for a long day of walking.
Mattie Gouman, digital creator

One of my favourite winter shoes for cold, wet weather has been The Connie boot from LMS. They’re the perfect balance of practical and elevated, sturdy enough for rainy days, but still really easy to style with everyday outfits!
I love how comfortable they are for all-day wear, perfect for day-to-night outings and walking around all day while still feeling really supported and comfortable. They also go with pretty much everything in my wardrobe, which makes getting dressed so much easier when it’s cold and grey outside.
Still looking for your perfect pair? Try this.