The Hottest Winter Shoe Trends 2022-2023: What to Wear This Season
Your ultimate guide to the standout winter shoe trends of 2022-2023—from bold boots to playful platforms and statement-making details.
The approach of winter brings with it a wave of fresh footwear trends. For the 2022-2023 season, designers and brands have delivered bold new takes on boots, platforms, and playful details, promising that cold days are the perfect excuse to step out in style. This comprehensive guide explores the defining winter shoe trends, key pieces to shop, and pro styling tips to keep you ahead of the fashion curve until spring.
Winter Shoe Trends 2022-2023: The Standout Styles
This season, the world’s runways and city streets have converged on a collection of styles that are as practical as they are eye-catching. Whether you seek comfort, height, color, or edge, there is a winter shoe trend to suit your personality and wardrobe needs. Read on for a complete breakdown of each must-have trend.
Lace-Up Boots Take the Lead
Combat-inspired lace-up boots are one of winter’s essential footwear staples. This season, designers such as Chloé, Christian Dior, and Interior have elevated the classic lace-up knee-high boot status with dramatic front-and-center lacing. Their bold silhouettes not only provide extra warmth and support but add utilitarian-chic to your cold-weather looks.
- Opt for over-the-knee lace-up styles to maximize impact and protection against winter chills.
- For a modern twist, look for boots that combine lacing with unique details like chunky soles or color contrast panels.
- Pair with slouchy knits or midi skirts to strike the right balance between rugged and refined.
Bow-Adorned Shoes: Femininity Returns
Bows are making a glamorous comeback as embellishments on everything from sky-high platforms to flirty flats. Seen on the runways at Giambattista Valli, Moschino, and Paco Rabanne, bow-detailed party shoes and statement mules bring a playful yet elegant touch to your winter shoe rotation.
- Choose pointed-toe flats with petite bows for daytime sophistication.
- Embrace bowed platforms for a standout evening look or holiday parties.
- Contrast feminine bow details with menswear-inspired suiting for an unexpected twist.
Denim Footwear: Jeans, But for Your Feet
Denim is no longer just for jeans or jackets this season. Designers like Isabel Marant and Diesel have brought denim-adorned boots and shoes into the spotlight, infusing casual cool and unexpected texture into winter wardrobes. Etro puts a subtle spin on the trend with blue-washed leather sandals for those seeking something more demure.
- Choose denim boots with distinctive washes, frayed hems, or patchwork panels.
- Style with denim-on-denim outfits for a bold, fashion-forward approach.
- Try blue-washed leather options as an entry point to this trend if you prefer understated looks.
Clogs: The Season’s Unexpected Hero
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Clogs have made a major comeback for winter, reimagined in a range of luxe materials and playful designs. From furry, motif-heeled styles at Fendi to everyday suede slip-ons at Tod’s, the clog delivers comfort and style for indoor and outdoor wear alike.
- Go for faux-fur lined clogs for maximum coziness and an elevated lounge vibe.
- Suede and leather slip-on clogs are practical for errand runs and coffee dates—wear with wool socks for an on-trend look.
- Look for studded or metallic hardware to add a little edge to everyday outfits.
Peek-a-Boo Boots: The Cutout Craze
Winter’s answer to the cutout trend? Peek-a-boo boots that reveal unexpected flashes of leg or skin, countering the season’s traditionally bundled-up silhouettes. Gucci uses multiple buckles for graphic reveals, while Versace and Louis Vuitton innovate with artful laser-cut patterns and designer perforations.
- Select boots with strategically placed cutouts to blend protection with allure.
- These boots pair beautifully with patterned or colorful hosiery, letting you experiment with layers and textures.
- Choose geometric or minimalist cutouts for versatility, or go maximal with bold, intricate designs for a statement look.
Clown-Inspired Footwear: Playful Proportions
Channel a sense of whimsy with clown-ish shoe silhouettes—think voluminous loafers, bulbous toe shapes, and supra-long fronts. Balenciaga leads the charge with oversized loafer boots, while brands like Khaite and Proenza Schouler offer stretched and rounded silhouettes for those ready to embrace fun at their feet.
- Look for platform soles, exaggerated rounded toes, or elongated fronts in bold colors and premium materials.
- Balance out these fun shoes with streamlined bottoms like straight-leg denim or tailored trousers.
- Use a playful shoe as the centerpiece of a minimalist outfit for instant contemporary cred.
Color Stories: Winter Brights and Unexpected Hues
Where winter shoes once stuck to neutral tones, 2022-2023 welcomes a riot of color across all styles. From vibrant pinks at Versace to saturated greens at Givenchy, there’s no reason to shy away from bold shoes this season. Color is not just for summer—let your footwear lead the way in making a statement.
- Pick boots in eye-catching hues like cherry red, cobalt blue, or neon green for on-trend pops of color.
- Try color-blocked designs for an easy way to mix brights and neutrals.
- Showcase colored shoes with monochrome outfits to let your footwear do the talking.
Platforms and Loafers: High and Mighty
The platform trend continues to thrive, infusing height and drama into everything from loafers to dressy heels. Chunky-soled loafers, as seen at Prada and Tod’s, deliver both comfort and statement, while sky-high platforms take you from day to night. The square heel, especially, has defined the COSMO and SHIFTER shoe collections as must-buys for 2022-2023.
- Chunky loafers add a preppy touch and work with skirts, dresses, and tailored pants alike.
- Opt for platform boots to give a nod to 90s and 70s nostalgia, paired with wide-leg trousers or mini skirts and tights.
- Choose square heel options for polish and stability when you’re on the go.
Cowboy and Western Boots: Riding the Range
Western-inspired boots are still riding high, adapted for winter with weatherproof materials and plush details. Classic cowboy silhouettes, contrasted stitching, and pointed toes inject a rugged, adventurous note into city wardrobes. Whether styled with flowy dresses or tucked-in jeans, these boots add a free spirit to winter style.
- Look for tall, embroidered boots for the most authentic Western effect.
- Pair with midi floral dresses or denim for a festival-ready look.
- Try weatherproof or fur-lined versions for practicality without sacrificing style.
Practicality with Style: Rain Boots and Utility Shoes
Cold and wet days call for functional footwear that doesn’t compromise on style. Enter modern rain boots inspired by utilitarian classics—think Coturno and Chelsea-inspired silhouettes with thick soles, vegan materials, or trendy colors like black, green, and beige. These shoes keep feet dry and cozy while letting you look your best, no matter the weather.
- Invest in ankle-length rain boots for easy everyday wear.
- Bright or pastel-colored rain boots can make even gloomy days feel playful.
- Pair thick-soled Chelsea boots with warm socks and leggings for a stylish wet-weather solution.
How to Style the Winter’s Biggest Shoe Trends
The season’s most-coveted footwear offers a unique mix of nostalgia, utility, and exuberant detailing. Here are quick tips for stepping up your winter shoe game:
- Layer with personality: Don’t be afraid to let socks, tights, or leg warmers peek out from boots and clogs.
- Contrast and balance: Oppose chunky shoes with streamlined outfits, or play up playful silhouettes with bold outerwear.
- Mix textures: Pair denim boots with cozy knits or leathery clogs with crisp tailoring for an on-trend, tactile look.
- Experiment: This is a season for having fun—try unexpected combinations, such as bows with utility, or platforms with athleisure, for a modern clash.
Table: Quick Guide to Winter 2022-2023 Shoe Trends
| Trend | Key Features | How to Style |
|---|---|---|
| Lace-Up Boots | Front lacing, knee-high, chunky soles | With midi skirts, knitwear, or leggings |
| Bow Details | Bows on platforms, mules, flats | With party dresses or suiting |
| Denim Shoes | Denim boots, washed leather | Head-to-toe denim, casual layers |
| Clogs | Fur-lined, slip-ons, chunky hardware | With socks, jeans, or midi skirts |
| Peek-a-Boo Boots | Cutouts, buckles, perforations | Patterned tights, mini skirts |
| Clownish Silhouettes | Bulky, rounded toes, extended fronts | Minimalist outfits, tailored pants |
| Color Pop | Bright boots, color-blocks | Monochrome outfits, statement layers |
| Platforms & Loafers | Chunky soles, square heels | With suits, minis, wide-leg pants |
| Cowboy Boots | Western cut, embroidery | Floral dresses, denim |
| Rain/Utility Boots | Ancle height, thick soles | Active outerwear, daily casuals |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the dominant colors for winter shoes in 2022-2023?
Brights such as pink, green, and cobalt blue, as well as versatile neutrals, are leading the way. Unconventional color pops are found even in boots and platforms this season.
How can I wear platform shoes in winter?
Pair chunky platform boots or loafers with thick socks, tights, or tailored trousers for warmth and stability. Weatherproof materials and solid soles make platforms practical choices even on cold or wet days.
Are clogs still on trend for winter?
Yes, clogs are a key style, with designers updating them in fur, leather, and motif-heeled versions. Style with socks, casual ensembles, or as statement loungewear.
Is the denim shoe trend wearable for everyday looks?
Absolutely. Denim boots and shoes add a cool, casual edge and pair well with jeans, basics, or even dressed-up outfits for a modern effect.
What’s the best way to care for statement winter footwear?
Waterproof your shoes, use protective sprays especially for suede and leather, and store in dust bags. Rotate shoes to allow them to dry and maintain their shape throughout the season.
References
- https://www.marieclaire.com/fashion/shoe-trends-winter-2022-2023/
- https://melissashoeseurope.com/en/blogs/blog/les-tendances-incontournables-automne-hiver-2022-2023
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oJE2SF-NQdI
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f7Wri-pt1So
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/fashion/g41635134/winter-shoe-trends-2022-23/
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/fashion/g41592313/winter-fashion-trends-2022-23/
- https://www.cosmopolitanme.com/fashion/winter-fashion-trends
- https://www.ellecanada.com/fashion/trends/top-shoe-trends-for-winter-2022-2023
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