5 Boots and Bootie Styles to Try This Winter ...

City dwellers can channel the Old West in a sturdy pair of cowgirl boots. The tall shaft provides a barrier between your calves and blustery, frigid weather—which is particularly helpful when you pair the classic footwear with a skirt-and-tights ensemble. For added warmth, slide your Western-style boots over a pair of skinny jeans and knee-high socks.

Fashionistas are sure to sport cowgirl booties this winter, too. They’ll keep your feet and ankles warm as you show off a bit of leg. The pointed toe will elongate your frame when wearing high-waisted, wide-leg denim.

To fully commit to the look, opt for cowgirl boots or booties with intricate embroidery on the vamp and shaft. You can show low-key love for Western footwear with a neutral color or opt for bold, contrasting hues to stand out in dreary winter weather.

This men’s military shoe has come a long way since it first entered the mainstream fashion scene in the 1960s and 1970s. The tall lace-up boot is a popular throwback to the punk era. However, the modern take on this timeless, utilitarian style includes a chunky platform heel and lug sole that provides plenty of traction to prevent wipe-outs on slippery pavement. Lace-free styles are reminiscent of an edgier Chelsea boot, with a close-fitting shaft, pull-on tabs, and stretch side panels for a sleek silhouette.

Pair combat boots with a baggy sweater or grunge-era flannel and ripped straight-leg jeans to run errands around town. If your social calendar is full of casual get-togethers and nights out, pair the kicks with fishnet stockings, a slip dress, and a choker to channel ‘90s It Girl vibes.

Everyone loves a good pop of color, but have you seen what’s new in neutrals? These go-with-everything shades are anything but boring and give outfits a sophisticated twist. Black and white give boots a minimalist, graphic vibe for ultra-modern dressing, while earthy browns and taupes provide a comfortable, lived-in feel.

Best of all, these neutral shades call attention to creative details, like buckles, stitching, and studs, not to mention the boot’s silhouette. Go for a chic over-the-knee stiletto one day and an urban cowgirl look the next. When you know your boots go with every color in your wardrobe, you’ll be inspired to experiment.

Bigger is better–this is true of a lot of things, and women’s boots are no exception. Whether you like your platforms paired with a towering heel and embellishments worthy of Studio 54 or a low heel and lug sole for a fashion-forward power walk, there’s a platform style made for you. These boots are perfect for dressing up or dressing down since they come in a wide range of fabrics, from sleek satin to cozy, casual suede. Look for knee-high styles–or taller–for added warmth under your favorite skirts and dresses.

Après-ski wear isn’t just reserved for the slopes. You’ll be happy to stomp through snowy city streets during stormy weather in a comfy pair of mid-calf boots with a moon boot silhouette and platform sole. Inspired by the shape of astronaut boots, these kicks have been around since the late 1960s. Slide on a pair of nylon-covered boots in a color-block design for a classic look, or opt for a trendy faux fur embellished version. These chunky, head-turning boots look great paired with leather leggings and your go-to baggy sweatshirt or cozy turtleneck.

Try one trend, or try them all for the chicest winter ever.