Like most fashion editors, I’d say a considered pair of investment shoes is one of the more savvy decisions you can make for your wardrobe.
After all, as we swap our summer dresses for winter coats, and all things butter yellow with oxblood, ‘tis now time to take stock of our shoes situation as well. Last weekend, after putting away my thong sandals and Alaia flats, huge gaps stared back at me from my shoe shelf, which means only one thing: it’s time to go shopping.
Finding the best winter shoes can be tricky, with the unpredictable weather and festive dressing needs the season brings. The key is finding the pieces that are durable enough to withstand the wet and cold, comfortable enough to withstand the tube, and of course, chic enough to go with all the lush leopard coats and burgundy bags you’ve no doubt invested in this season.
Thankfully, after staring at the autumn-winter 2024 runways for the last few months, I have a few ideas for fashion-forward footwear that checks (most) of these boxes. Below, take a look at the best new-in investment shoes that will take you through to winter and beyond.
1. Prada loafers
It’s Prada or nada when it comes to the coolest loafers in fashion. If you don’t already have a pair, go ahead and invest in some this season. Pair them with long socks as the mercury dips and then wear alone next year – these shoes will never go out of style.
2. Miu Miu x New Balance trainers
Designer collab trainers come and go, but these Miu Miu x New Balance SL suede trainers have been topping every fashion girl’s list since they came out. Mark our words, they will continue to be a mainstay next year thanks to Miu Miu’s cult status.
3. Jil Sander gold pumps
For those who prefer the IYKYK type shoes (aka logo-less, minimalist styles), these Jil Sander pumps are the way to go. Gilded in gold, they make for the perfect party shoe as festive season comes around, but would go equally well with a summery white dress next year.
4. Toteme’s tall boots
Along with chilly temps comes the need for a pair of knee-high boots, and the best in the biz would have to be these from cult label Toteme. With a pointy toe, which works well with longer hemlines, and a tiny, tube-friendly heel, you’re sure to reach for these boots for every occasion.
5. Chloé clogs
Chloé’s chunky Maxime wedges made waves last season after a picture of all the A-listers wearing the platform shoe on Chloé’s front row went viral – but if that sky-high height was too daunting for you (it certainly was for me), these studded flats might be a good compromise.
6. Gucci red flats
The Alaïa flats of the summer are passing the baton to these oxblood flats for autumn. Gucci’s pointed strappy versions go well with all the chocolate brown you’re about to wear this season, but will look equally chic with floaty dresses and denim.
7. Khaite cowboy boots
Confession: I actually own these boots, and I’m happy to report I wore them almost every day last winter. When it comes to investment shoes, these definitely fit the bill as boots I know will stand the test of time. Incredibly comfortable and chic, they’re the perfect pair for those looking to tap into the cowboy shoe trend, but who don’t want to look like they actually hail from the Wild West.