Boots are winter’s saving grace and without them it would be a soggy, sloppy season. They keep us dry, comfy and (hopefully) chic, though the latter is not always guaranteed. Curating a sensible yet stylish boot collection is serious business that takes effort, research and careful consideration. To get a jump start, here is a round up of my best boot picks this winter season:

1. Melissa
   Water proof boots are a winter essential and Melissa’s Coturno boot delivers on both form and function. A funky twist on the run of the mill welly, these combat-style jelly lace-ups have a roomy toe box, soft inner soles and a lug sole built to survive anything. Plus they come in colors galore — 11 to be exact, which includes matte, patent, transparent, iridescent and ombré styles. The best part? Cleaning them is a dream — one easy wipe down and they’re back to looking like new again.

2. No. 6
   Cool-girl winter clog booties are always a good look. Add a fuss-free slip-on design plus shearling liner and it’s a win-win. No. 6 Clogs have a cult following for these very reasons and, specifically, their 5” shaft style sell out often. These are particularly comfy with a stiff leather upper that delivers support and a soft, supple leather shaft that makes them luxury. The platform heel is a nice, manageable lift for all day wear and the polyurethane sole softens the wood base, making them quieter.

3. Ganni
   Beat the winter blues with Ganni’s flirty, peek-a-boo Chunky Buckle Open Cut Boots that vibe rock-n-roll glam. Even more, the recycled polyester material is conscious consuming, the chunky hardware is street style chic and the open-cut style is all about creating fun legwear moments. Pair with lacy floral hosiery for a naughty-and-nice look, or an opaque monochrome tight for a shock of color.

4. Sézane
   Sézane’s Colette over-the-knee heeled boots have it all — style, comfort and drama. The sleek, minimalist design is the perfect cold weather boot silhouette; it’s 2.7-inch heel height give you an edge but not pain; and the thigh-high style guarantees you get noticed. The velvety suede is gorgeous, top-quality and lasts longer if regularly waterproofed and brushed. Plus the colors are fun! Choose either your most serviceable neutral, or an accent color to give your winter wardrobe a pop.

5. Everlane
   If your everyday winter boot needs replacing, Everlane‘s Lug Chelsea Boot is the perfect purchase. Not only is it sturdy, its chunky lug sole adds platform height plus a little attitude. Pre-treated with water resistant spray, it also has pull-on tabs for easy and quick on-off functionality. And bonus points for its sustainable leather sourced from an eco-compliant tannery.

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