With temperatures continuing to drop and plenty of snow days on the horizon, the struggle of getting dressed every morning isn’t becoming any easier. You can layer coats and knits smartly on top, but the biggest challenge for any working professional is footwear. Most traditionally “professional” shoes, whether it be a ballet flat or a block-heel pump, are ankle baring, meaning that many successful women end up commuting in a pair of beat-up Uggs only to switch to pumps from a tote bag or stashed under her desk once safely in the office. It doesn’t have to be like this.
Instead, invest in a pair of stylish shoes that are not only work appropriate but also cold weather proof. Ugg’s new collaboration with Kith is a perfect example of the marriage of stylish and functional. Vogue’s own Virginia Smith is already swearing by the collaboration, crediting Kith with giving boots once reserved for upstate weekends some city-ready cred. Vogue’s Fashion News Director Chioma Nnadi has found a pair of trendy boots that is actually durable despite its outer appearances, while a handful of other staffers swear by cowboy boots, available in plenty of styles and price points. Still not convinced? Find your match below, with 22 pairs of Vogue editor–approved shoes for the office.
Virginia Smith, Fashion Director
I have to admit that I’m a big fan of the Ugg—though I typically keep them relegated to upstate terrain. However, the Kith x Ugg collaboration boot is another thing altogether. Making their New York City debut last week, they not only navigated the slippery walk to work but also held their own alongside my staples of Celine, Kors, and Dries.
Chioma Nnadi, Fashion News Director
Don’t be fooled by the fancy studding; these boots are much sturdier than they look. I own them in two colors—emerald green and ruby red. The red pair are extra durable, almost like riding boots. And once you’ve covered the leather soles with a rubber base, you could basically march them into a blizzard.
Cara Sanders, Director of Special Events
I’m actually on the hunt for a good pair of winter shoes that are a step between my leather Chelsea boots and the intense Sorel boots I wore this past weekend in Vermont, where we had two feet of snow. But for now, I’ve been wearing the Ruffle Sneakers by Tory Sport with a thick, warm sock. The smooth leather keeps my feet dry in the rain and snow, and the rubber sole helps me from slipping and sliding. Utility aside, I think the navy blue ruffle elevates the sneaker to be office appropriate.
Alexandra Michler, Editor
These Brother Vellies boots are perfect for layering a cozy sock over tights and look great with long knit dresses.
Emily Rosser, Visual Director
Cowboy boots! They’re warm, comfy, and make me feel like I’m not in the office.
Chloe Malle, Contributing Editor
These Tabitha Simmons velvet booties can weather New York cold as well as a tough commute and still make me feel like a heroine in a Russian novel. What more could you want?
Alessandra Codinha, Culture Editor
I’m never mad at a chunky-heeled boot in the winter, and Fabrizio Viti’s version—lug-soled, equestrian-influenced, and really comfy—is just different enough to set it apart from the pack.
Grace Givens, Editor
Right now I’m obsessed with these Rag & Bone boots. I couldn’t get my hands on the Celine pair, and these are the perfect alternative! Also these white Grensons are quite cute, especially worn with winter florals. Good for trekking through the snow!
Ella Riley-Adams, Living Editor
I love a Doc Marten loafer. They’re surprisingly waterproof, the price is right, and the subtle platform gives me a boost in height. I went with a bigger size so I can wear wooly socks with them—ideal for these freezing winter days!
Alice Bell, Fashion Market Assistant
I never thought I would be into wearing hiking boots every day, but I haven’t wanted to take these off since I bought them. The shearling-lined ankles keep my feet warm, and the super-thick soles are perfect for when the roads get snowy and icy.
Liana Satenstein, Senior Fashion News Writer
This is the most feel-good boot I have ever worn. Rihanna-approved freaky-shoe designer Gio Forbice has crafted the spiciest color combo ever. The sole is the healthiest green, the heel has a peel of metal around it, and the boot itself is red like the juiciest chili pepper you’ve ever tasted. I don’t care if it is cold out, these boots keep me warm with a thick wool sock. I’d wear them to Mount Everest if I could.
Michaela Bechler, Features Associate
I switched from wearing knee-high boots to ankle boots a couple of years ago but found myself missing the extra layer of warmth that taller boots provided (especially when temperatures are officially below freezing). I recently acquired a pair of The Jamie boots from Tecovas, and they are already my most worn shoe this winter. The black boots are slimming, look great with just about everything, and are actually comfortable—a bonus when walking is such a large part of my commute to the office. Who knew a cowboy boot in New York would be so ideal?
Anny Choi, Market Editor
My Ludwig Reiter boots meant for the slopes have been a lifesaver this brutal New York City winter. They are shearling-lined and water- and snow-proof but also chic enough to wear to work on any normal day. Fur Deluxe makes ballerina slippers from vintage fur, which are perfect alternatives to my ballet-flat uniform in the warmer months!
Willow Lindley, Editor
These super versatile boots are the dream marriage of style and function. They are my 100 percent go-to on cold mornings when I need a tried-and-true staple to help me get dressed and out the door.
Janelle Okwodu, Senior Fashion News Writer
Little Bally flats. They’re super comfortable, easy to wear during commutes, and hold up surprisingly well in the cold. Great for the rather mild winter we’ve had thus far—plus they’re called Janelle so that helps.
Madeline Fass, Associate Market Editor
This winter, I’ve been wearing Durango’s white cowboy boots nonstop. Not only do they look cool paired with a loosely tailored suit or one of my winter midi dresses, they are also extremely durable. Their rubber sole is essential when it comes to icy or salty sidewalks, and I can comfortably fit a woolly sock for extra warmth, which is a major plus! The must-have Western-boot trend is a lot more practical than one would expect!
Monica Kim, Senior Fashion News Editor
I bought Maryam Nassir Zadeh’s knee-high Lune boots last month. They have my ideal commuter heel (a sturdy block heel, just over three inches) and shield my legs from the wind. Plus, lots of space around the calves for Uniqlo Heattech leggings and socks to stay extra warm.
Zoe Ruffner, Beauty Editor
I hesitated before investing in The Row’s Fara boots (and they were on sale!), but I haven’t looked back since. Comfortable enough to get me to and from work without wasting any time teetering around in the cold yet chic enough to be worn in the office—and just about anywhere. (Bonus points for the discreet side zip, which makes them easy to slip right into without having to ever touch the laces.)
Steff Yotka, Fashion News and Emerging Platforms Editor
I’m a lifelong Doc Martens wearer, and these platform boots are the best ones yet—once you get past the awful breaking-in period.
Madeline Swanson, Associate Market Editor
Since the first frost of 2018, I have been alternating between two pairs of cowboy boots (one in brown, one in black) on a near-daily basis. Both pairs were new to my wardrobe this fall, and the versatility factor is astounding—hello, knee-length winter skirts! Over are my days of stomping to work in snow boots and lugging a bag big enough to fit my office heels when really all I want to be carrying is a piece from my micro-bag collection!
