After a summer of running around barefoot and occasionally being bothered to put on a pair of flip flops, closed-toe shoes feel like teeny tiny prisons, and finding warm shoes that are actually cute is even more of a challenge. Our poor toes aren't used to being confined after being free for so long, and each season it takes weeks for them to get used to it. For me, the first half of the fall is associated not only with PSLs, but also with painful blisters that make walking nearly impossible. When I pull on a pair of boots for the first time in the fall season, no matter how expensive or fabulous they are, a little part of me dies inside. Alas, I must learn to adjust.
As I learned this week when I decided to wear sandals to class on a 60-degree day and watched my feet turn purple in the cold, open-toe shoe weather is officially over. Unfortunately, unless we want our little piggies to freeze off, it is time for us to suck it up and embrace these toe-torture-traps until springtime. The good news? Here are some cute shoes that are sure to keep your feet warm as well. The better news? You don't have to get another pedicure until March.
1. Fringe Boots
Kristen Cavallari Charm Fringe Bootie, $101, 6pm
The fringe trend, apparently, isn't going anywhere. Add a little swing to your step this season with these Laguna Beach-star approved boots. Nothing says "I'm here to party" like shoes that have as much swagger as you do.
2. Colorblock Boots
Aldo Asteiven Ankle Boot, $75, A ldo
These booties, in their multicolored glory, add a fashion forward update to any look. The colors are all neutral (little known fact: red is actually the most versatile "neutral") so these can be worn with absolutely anything.
3. Classic Black Converse
Chuck Taylor Converse All Stars, $55, C onverse
An oldie but a goodie, I'm convinced these bad boys belong on every season's "what shoes to wear" list. Opt for a pair of high-tops so you can secretly sneak thick, high socks underneath them for the ultimate warmth and comfort combination.
4. Doc Martens
Dr. Martens Original 1461, $115, Zappos
Embrace your inner '90s-grunge girl with an easy pair of Doc Marten Originals. Add a fall 2015 twist by pairing them with colorful, quirky socks and a rolled up pair of jeans.
5. Sparkly Booties
Sam Edelman Edith Bootie, $140, Sam Edelman
If Cher Horowitz was reincarnated as a pair of boots, these would be them. Enough said.
6. Thigh High Boots
Steve Madden Gorgeous Over the Knee Boot, $150, Steve Madden
These will keep your feet and your legs warm — for under $150, I'd call that a win, win. Nervous to wear boots that are this major? Follow these simple rules for how to wear thigh-high boots.
7. Leopard Lace-up Flats
'Rian' Ghillie Lace Pointy Toe Flat, $70, Nordstrom
Ok, so these aren't necessarily "warm" per-se, but they're closed-toe and so, so cute.The lace-up flat trend is huge this season, and these go with absolutely everything (did I mention that leopard is a neutral, too?).
8. Booties That Go With Everything
Jack Rogers Marianne Suede Boot, $100, Jack Rogers
This boot is the perfect height, perfect shade, and perfect material for everyone's fall style. They look great with jeans, skirts and dresses, and help make an easy transition from day to night.
9. Necessary Rain Boots
Hunter Chelsea Rain Boot, $135, Hunter
The most annoying thing about rain boots is the obnoxious squeaking sound they make when you cross your legs. These little guys help you avoid that entirely! Buy them a half-size bigger than you normally would and pick out some wool socks in a complementary color to wear them with.
10. Leopard Loafers
Nine West Trainer Pointy-Toe Loafers, $99, Ninewest
A fun update to your boring office shoes, these are part business, part pleasure.
11. Leather Slip-Ons
Toms Classic Alpargata Slip-on, $98, Toms
Swap out your summer Toms (which are bound to be full of salt and sand) for this new-for-fall version. The soft leather is sure to keep your toes toasty, and every time you buy a pair the company sends a pair of shoes to a child in need.
12. Updated Uggs
Ugg Karisa Boot, $130, DSW
Uggs are just so. damn. comfortable. This version, with of-the-moment fringe detailing, will look adorable with a mini skirt and keep your feet warm if you're still trying to rock a bare-legged look until New Years.
13. Snake Skin Loafers
Magic Touch Pointed Flat Shoes, $30, ACool for work or the weekend, people won't believe you only paid $30 for these "snake skin" loafers.
14. Socks And Sandals
Birkenstock Arizona Brown Birko-Flor, $100, B irkenstock
IMHO, Birkenstocks are here to stay. Since that's the case, you may as well make them multi-seasonal!
So there you have it: Cute shoes can be warm, and vice versa. All it takes is a small footwear investment and a little creativity, and you'll be set for any weather.
Images: Courtesy Brands (14)
