Autumn-Winter Shoes: 5 styles truly worth the investment

FW Shoes: 5 models truly worth the investment (and how to spot the good ones)

Shoes are the point where an “okay” look immediately becomes well-groomed (or, on the contrary, spoiled). In FW you don’t need 20 pairs: you need 5 well-made models that withstand cold, rain, and endless days.

1) The “everyday” ankle boot

Why it’s worth it: you wear it with jeans, tailored trousers, midi skirts. What to look for:

• Heel 3–6 cm (stable)
• Sole not too smooth (non-slip)
• Full-grain leather or good quality leather
• Solid zipper + neat stitching Avoid: overly “pointed” toe if you walk a lot; thin “sheet-like” sole.

Easy pairings

• Straight jeans + sweater + coat
• Tailored trousers + blazer

2) The loafer (but FW version)

Why it’s worth it: it makes you elegant without “effort”. What to look for:

• Sole slightly thicker (FW friendly)
• Upper that doesn’t crease immediately
• Comfortable inside (if it “bites” the instep, discard) Pro tip: with thin socks and cropped or rolled trousers it’s always chic.

3) The clean sneaker (for the city)

Why it’s worth it: it’s the shoe that saves you when you have to walk 10,000 steps. What to look for:

• Minimal line, few details
• Durable material (leather or serious technical)
• Comfortable insole (if it’s flat as a board… no) Avoid: soles that are too thin (cold gets in immediately).

4) The “weatherproof” boot (rain & cold)

Why it’s worth it: it’s your insurance when the weather is awful. What to look for:

• Tank tread sole (but not exaggerated)
• Treated material / oiled leather / waterproof technical
• Collar that doesn’t rub Styling tip: with jeans, sweater, and coat it gives you that “cool” mood without losing comfort.

5) The “smart” décolleté or slingback

Why it’s worth it: you need it for events, dinners, meetings. What to look for:

• Medium heel (5–7 cm) and stable
• Slightly tapered toe (slims without pain)
• Strap that holds (if it slips, goodbye) Pain-free trick: choose a half size if needed and use a thin insole.

Mini guide: how to spot a “good” shoe in 30 seconds

• Weight: too light often = cheap materials
• Sole: if it looks like hard, shiny plastic… it slips and wears out
• Finishes: clean edges, no “visible” glue
• Flexibility: it must bend where the foot bends, not randomly
• Smell: if it smells strongly chemical, often not a good sign

3 common mistakes during sales (that make you waste money)

1. Buying an uncomfortable model “because sooner or later…”
2. Buying delicate shoes to wear in real winter
3. Ignoring the sole: it’s the most important part

Mini CTA

If you want to shop smart: get 1 “everyday” model + 1 “weatherproof” model. With those two you’re covered for 80% of FW days.