These Shoes are Made for Walkin’

Marisa Anziano
Copy Editor

As much as we may hate to admit it, the bitter cold fall and winter months are approaching fast. It is now time to pack away your flip-flops and opt for more fall and winter-friendly footwear. The popular shoe trends for this fall and winter that I will discuss include loafers, cap-toe ballet flats, ankle boots, and studded motorcycle boots.

When you hear the word loafers, odds are the image that pops into your head is that of a grandfather shuffling about or maybe a sharply dressed businessman. However, I am here to tell you that loafers for women are becoming increasingly stylish. Take Steve Madden’s popular leopard print loafers or even Jeffrey Campbell’s edgy studded loafers for instance. Celebrities from actress Anne Hathaway to style maven and television host Alexa Chung have been rocking this latest trend. These shoes are comfortable and functional, but can still dress up or add a pop of color to any outfit. Pair these loafers with your favorite skinny jeans and comfy sweater for the perfect autumnal school outfit.

Ballet flats are just about as versatile as shoes come since they fit in just about every setting from fancy to casual. This season, cap-toe ballet flats are popping up in many stores. A cap-toe ballet flat simply means that the front of the shoe is a different color or material than the rest of the flat. Some cap-toe variations include sparkles and other accents. Stop into your local Nine West or Designer Shoe Warehouse, DSW, to get your pair of cap-toe ballet flats.

We have now come to the boot portion of our foray into shoe trends. As the temperature begins to decrease, warmth is a serious priority. Thankfully, there are many ways to stay warm yet look great at the same time. Ankle boots are a huge trend for fall and winter this year. Whether a more cowboy-inspired translation or perhaps in a classic suede material, these boots are in stores from Target to Bloomingdale’s and everywhere in between. These boots provide style, comfort, and most of all protection from the elements. Throw on a cozy cardigan and a pair of leggings to show off your ankle boots this season.

A shoe trend article such as this one would not be complete without the mention of motorcycle-style boots. Studs, spikes, buckles, and other metal hardware on boots are all the rage this year and provide a new take on a classic look. I would suggest checking out Steve Madden and Sam Edelman for help with this trend. These boots can be worn with virtually anything. Rock a pretty dress, black patterned tights, and a pair of studded motorcycle boots to try a more surprising approach. For more inspiration, look to young Hollywood actresses like Pretty Little Liars star Lucy Hale and Academy Award nominated actress Hailee Steinfeld.

“Boots are a staple in my fall wardrobe. I like boots because they really complete an outfit and can make you look more put together. Plus, they keep you warm, which is necessary this time of year. I like to invest in a few high quality pairs of boots that will last me a few seasons,” said public administration graduate student Denise F.

The best part of these aforementioned fall and winter 2012 shoe trends is that they can be adapted to fit within any budget and within any comfort level. Take a walk on the wild side or opt for a more classic approach to footwear.