Affordable Footwear Finds You’ll Want Want to Wear for the Next 6 Months
Fall/winter 2024 brings the perfect opportunity to refresh your shoe collection without breaking the bank. As we head into the colder months, affordable footwear finds that are both stylish and comfortable become essential, especially when you know you’ll be wearing these pieces on rotation until spring.
The emphasis this season is on footwear that not only serves the aesthetics but keeps up with the demands of day-to-day wear. So, instead of chasing fleeting trends, this guide focuses on accessible styles that elevate your wardrobe without sacrificing comfort or practicality.
Special Occasion Shoes
Winter footwear is embracing the unexpected with playful details like fringe, feathers, and see-through heels. These elements add a layer of personality to otherwise classic styles. Jewel-toned pumps, feather-trimmed flats, and satin kitten heels are also making their way into winter wardrobes.
How to style them: Add a pair of emerald-green pumps or feather-trimmed flats to slim black pants and an oversized knit for a cozy holiday fit. For Lucite heels, let them be the star of your look by keeping the rest of your outfit simple.
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Office Pumps
The work pump is getting a refresh this season, blending professionalism with a modern, stylish edge. Brands like Dries Van Noten, Tory Burch, and Toteme are reimagining the classic stiletto, playing with tightened vamps, sculptural heels, and polished finishes that feel both practical and forward-thinking. For those seeking more accessible options, Everlane, Reformation, and Yuni Buffa offer equally chic alternatives at a more affordable price point.
How to style them: Pair sleek, updated office pumps with wide-leg trousers and a fitted cashmere sweater for a polished work look. For a more modern aesthetic, wear them with tailored cropped pants and a structured blazer in neutral tones.
Related: How To Dress Like a Corporate Baddie This Winter
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Suede Ankle Boots
Suede ankle boots have earned their place as a fall/winter staple, thanks to their unmatched versatility and timeless appeal. The beauty of suede lies in its ability to blend seamlessly with both casual and dressed-up looks.
Opt for a neutral brown or tan shade if you’re looking to pair these boots with everything from jeans to wool skirts. Despite the soft texture, many affordable options now come with water-resistant treatments, making suede more winter-friendly than ever.
How to style them: Go for neutral shades like tan or deep brown—they’ll pair beautifully with everything from distressed jeans to knit midi dresses. If you’re nervous about the suede holding up in winter weather, here’s a hack: invest in a water-repellent spray. Yes, it adds an extra step to your routine, but it’s worth it to keep them looking fresh.
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Western Boots
Western boots are the fashion gift that keeps on giving. While they’ve cycled in and out of popularity over the years, they’re firmly back on top this season, with tall silhouettes stealing the spotlight. If you’re new to this trend, start with a classic black pair, like the ones available at ASOS. They’re practical enough to anchor everyday outfits while still leaning into the boldness that Western boots inherently bring.
Pro styling tip: Tuck straight-leg jeans into your boots for a clean, equestrian-inspired look, or contrast their rugged vibe by pairing them with a flowy midi skirt. These boots are also surprisingly comfortable for long wear, thanks to their chunky heels, making them a versatile pick for both casual and elevated ensembles.
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Textured Details
Winter 2024 is all about texture. Fringe details, faux fur trims, and even embossed patterns are showing up on everything from ankle boots to loafers. These details add dimension to your outfit, making even the simplest looks feel more thought-out.
How to Wear It: A pair of faux fur-lined loafers can elevate your go-to jeans-and-sweater combo, while fringe boots bring movement to a simple maxi dress. If you’re into patterns, try embossed boots with an otherwise monochrome outfit to let them shine.
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Ballet Flats
Ballet flats in winter? Okay, hear me out. This season’s versions are anything but dainty. Think pointed toes, buckle details, and luxe materials like velvet and leather. The options from Mint Velvet are particularly noteworthy, combining style with practicality.
On milder days, style them with wide-leg trousers and a cashmere sweater for an outfit that’s cozy without being bulky. For a more feminine look, pair them with opaque tights and a plaid skirt. These flats are surprisingly versatile, proving that you don’t always need boots to look winter-ready.
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Biker Boots
If Western boots feel a bit too “out there,” biker boots might be your safer yet equally stylish alternative. These are your go-to for rainy days or for days when you need a shoe that can transition from your morning commute to a dinner date. This season, buckle detailing is having a moment, with brands like Steve Madden leading the charge. The added hardware gives these boots a modern edge while keeping them grounded in practicality.
How to Wear It: Pair them with a tailored coat and wide-leg trousers for an effortlessly chic look, or double down on their edginess with leather leggings.
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Slouchy Boots
The slouchy boot trend is carrying over into winter 2024. Their loose fit allows for layering with tights or socks, making them a practical choice for cold winter days. Unlike rigid, form-fitting styles, the slouchy silhouette paired with softer materials like supple leathers or suedes adapts easily to different leg shapes, making it easy to pull the boots on and off.
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Knee-High Boots
It’s hard to go wrong with a classic pair of knee-high boots. While trends come and go, these are a wardrobe cornerstone—and for good reason. Not only do they provide extra warmth, but they also instantly elevate an outfit. Brands like & Other Stories are serving up chic, minimalist styles in leather and suede.
Riding boots, in particular, are making a resurgence this season, especially paired with skinny jeans and a tailored coat for a look that feels polished but not overdone. And if you want to play with color, deep burgundy knee-highs are a solid choice.
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Mary Janes
The once-sweet Mary Jane has grown up, and this season, it’s making a bold statement. Glossy patent leather, chunky heels, thick straps, and edgy embellishments like studs and grommets are elevating this classic shoe into a centerpiece for any outfit. Brands like Bally, Loewe, and Valentino are leading the charge with versions that demand attention.
How to Wear It: Balance the boldness of statement Mary Janes by pairing them with minimalist outfits—think wide-leg trousers and a tucked-in blouse. Or, lean into the drama and wear them with a pleated midi skirt and a structured coat.
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Kitten Heels
Kitten heels are sticking around, offering just enough height to elevate an outfit without compromising comfort. Their low, slender profile makes them ideal for days when you want to feel put-together but can’t commit to a stiletto. This style fits perfectly into the broader shift toward versatile, wearable footwear.
How to Wear It: Kitten heels work beautifully with wide-leg trousers and tailored coats. For evening, pair a metallic kitten heel with a satin dress and a faux-fur wrap for understated glamor.
Related: How to Style Kitten Heels
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Waterproof Chelsea Boots
When it comes to weather-proofing your winter wardrobe, a pair of waterproof Chelsea boots is a no-brainer. These boots combine the sleek, classic silhouette of a Chelsea boot with a durable, waterproof finish, allowing you to brave the elements in style. Perfect for those slushy days, they’re as functional as they are chic.
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Funky Prints
Leopard spots, zebra stripes, and snake patterns are once again making waves in winter footwear. Unlike previous seasons, this year’s animal prints lean toward subtlety, making them a versatile option for any wardrobe. You’ll find these prints across a variety of styles, from ballet flats to knee-high boots.
How to Wear It: Pair leopard-print ankle boots with dark wash denim and a chunky cardigan for an effortlessly chic look. Snake-print flats can add texture to an all-black outfit, while zebra-striped pumps make for a playful addition to eveningwear.
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Combat Boots
There’s a reason combat boots come back every winter: they’re practical, durable, and look good with just about everything. This season, designers have kept the structure sturdy but added softer details, making them feel less “military” and more fashion-forward. Look for options with chunky soles or a slight platform if you’re in for a bit of a style statement.
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Loafers
Loafers aren’t going anywhere. Their classic appeal and comfortable, slip-on design make them an easy choice when you’re looking for something refined but not overly formal. This fall, look for loafers in rich leathers and with minimalistic details, as these will blend seamlessly with your winter wardrobe.
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Platform Sneakers
Platform sneakers are having a moment, and they’re more than just a trend—they’re a practical option for adding a little height and a lot of style to your outfit. Whether you pair them with jeans or trousers, platform sneakers offer a comfortable yet modern edge to your look, ideal for those days when you want to keep things casual but elevated.
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Shearling-Lined Boots
When the temperature drops, nothing beats the warmth and comfort of shearling-lined boots. These cozy essentials are ideal for the coldest days, offering both style and warmth. Look for ankle or mid-calf options that can be paired with leggings or jeans for a laid-back, cozy look.
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Square-Toe Boots
Square-toe boots have emerged as a subtle yet stylish trend this season. Their structured shape adds a modern twist to the classic boot, giving any outfit an instant update. Whether you prefer an ankle or knee-high style, a square toe adds a sophisticated edge that pairs well with both casual and dressy looks.
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Faux Fur-Lined Slippers
Winter isn’t just about outdoor footwear—keeping your feet cozy indoors is just as important. Faux fur-lined slippers offer that touch of luxury, perfect for lounging at home or running quick errands around the house. These slippers provide warmth and comfort, making them an essential addition to your winter footwear collection.
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