Boots are one of my favorite things about winter – once the novelty of snowstorms and sweaters has worn off, boots can be both practical and sexy, although seldom both on the slushy streets of harsh winter climates. Speaking of which... While it may seem like store clerks are just trying to boost their commissions by pushing protective sprays and gels, their sales pitch is not entirely baseless. It’s important to understand that not all boots are created equal. The term "gumboot" is not synonymous with waterproof or snow-friendly. Protect your footwear investment by regularly cleaning and caring for all your winter boots. Remember that protective and restorative shoe treatments cannot work miracles. Have the common sense to know when to prioritize practicality and not to ruin your suede knee-high boots. Salt and water create harmful, lasting stains that – besides ruining the boot's finish – actually damage the integrity of genuine suede, leather, and fabric. Invest in a pair of sturdy gumboots to carry your stylish footwear to work in harsh winter conditions while opting for scuff-resistant snow or rain boots for travel. Boot Tip: If you remember nothing else, be seasonally consistent when putting an outfit together. Do not wear UGG boots with a skirt and bare legs; tights, nylons, or even flesh-colored fishnet stockings help bridge the (thermal and aesthetic) gap between your knees and your hemline.
Ankle Boots: Very trendy footwear when paired with tights and a skirt. Avoid wearing ankle boots with long skirts that go past the knee – this tends to look frumpy and matronly.
Mid-Calf Boots: A cut that looks great with skirts of all lengths. This style accentuates your calf muscle and stands out from the crowd of knee-high boots.
Tall Boots: The classic knee-high boot. Ensure that the boot fits snugly around your leg; if the boot gapes open, you may need to have it altered for a more tailored look – a common practice at most cobblers.
Fur-Lined Boots & UGGs: Narrow, fur-lined lace-up tall boots are a lovely accompaniment to a flirty short skirt. For a funky casual style, try wearing knee socks over your tights and letting them peek (ever so slightly) over the top of your boot. This look works best if your socks and tights are contrasting colors. UGGs have become all the rage as the surfer culture’s (and urban wanna-be surfer style’s) winter staple of diversity. These robust, wooly sheepskin boots have been crafted for years by Australian artisans and were first introduced to North America in 1978 by Brian Smith, a young Australian surfer seeking to spread the UGG-love across the United States. Twenty-five years later, while UGG Australia isn’t exactly the epitome of elegant sophistication or alluring sexiness, wearers hail them as the pinnacle of comfort and warmth at 30 below.