ACCORDING TO EMILYG… WINTER ESSENTIALS: shoes, duh!
It’s f**king cold.
Daylight is fading and more and more of the girlies are skipping the ‘pedi’ in mani-pedi. Flip flops and cute little flats are not going to keep you and your piggies warm. You take a peek at your shoes, your closet, or maybe your shoe closet (if this applies to you, consider me jealous) and see… nothing.
Unless, of course, you’ve read this blog post, in which case, you’re stacked. Here’s a list of must-need basics from quality brands that will keep your toes from turning blue and are bound to turn heads.
Boots the house down
**Writer’s note: A round toe on a knee high boot is the enemy. We are FINISHED with round toes. (I had to aggressively communicate this to my mother while styling her this Winter.)
Dolce Vita “Auggie” - $250
A pointy-toe boot is arguably the most important piece you need in your wardrobe. The Auggie boot won’t break the bank (although we all know you’ve gotta spend a bit to get your money’s worth, and quality basics are worth the dough). The heel height stands at 2.4” — sexy, but not “holy shit I actually think I’m going to fall and break my neck” or “can we switch shoes?” sexy. Pair with tights and a black mini for a going out look, or boot-cut jeans and a sweater for casual or work wear.
EMILYG APPROVED: I own these boots and bought them for Michelle — mom approved!
Extremely comfortable and wide-calf friendly ;)
Jeffrey Campbell “Check Mate” - $195
A square toe boot is entirely necessary for both casual and going out wear in the colder months. Less sexy, more professional. If you’re working more than you’re playing, (yikes, I’m sorry) a square toe is the perfect style for you. Pairs well with wide-leg work pants or boot-cut jeans and adds dimension and shape to an otherwise boring outfit. Yuck, who likes boring? We’ll stick with classy, thanks.
**Square toe boots are still totally going-out approved. Just depends on the vibeage you wanna send. Go with whatever you feel most confident in!
Dr. Marten “Vegan sinclair platform boots” - $158.00 (On sale rn!)
For those of us who struggle to walk in heels, (You are not alone. Trust me.) opt for a snow-stomping, bar and club proof boot that screams “Don’t fck with me.” Docs have been a long-standing staple in the people’s wardrobe since like, the 60’s — and there’s a reason for that. Durable, ice resistant, and platform: the Sinclair boot is bound to last you forever (literally!) and send a confident message to the world that says “I’m not falling on my a** tonight.”
EMILYG APPROVED: I own these boots! Have had them for years and they’re comfortable and worth the dough. Trust me.
Heels (attempt in snow or ice at your own risk. Pls don’t sue me.)
Jeffrey campbell “Invent” heel - $165
If you couldn’t tell, I am totally in love with Jeffrey Campbell. Sustainable, well-made and trend-lasting shoes that stand the test of time are a total yes for me. These adorable little kitten heels are the perfect Mary Jane for you to go on your winter date with. (Don’t let him take you to coffee. It’s 2024, soon to be 2025. We’re doing a pasta and lobster dinner, wildly expensive cocktails, or nothing else.) Pair with knee-high stockings, a mini skirt, and a blouse or light sweater. (Leather blazer not required but looks realllll good and classy on top.)
Jeffrey campbell “Persona” heel - $59.98 (ON SALE RN!)
Jeffrey Campbell has done it again. Again again. Again again again. This classic slingback is the perfect accessory to bring with you to the bars. We are done with sneakers at bars. Over it. Move on. Break up with your Airforce 1’s and your Vejas. Awww, they grow up so fast! As in, like, NOW. (You get a pass as a college student, but that pass diminishes over your senior year. Get it together.) Annnnnyway. Pair with a bootcut or wide leg jean/any pant. **Bonus points if you have that light wash jean and black heel combo. Also, they’re on sale. Run.
Make a statement
The Dolce Vita Pamela Heel, Tony Bianco Crush Brown Leopard heel or Savior Cognac Heel, or Jeffrey Campbell Arabella Heel are all adorable options for either an elevated basic or statement shoe. I know I know, leopard print is under fire for being overdone. But I say screw the critics: let leopard print live! Contrary to popular belief, leopard print has been a staple for years. Fast fashion companies like Shein or TikTok Shop (I could barely type that one. Please shop sustainably if not for your sake, but for mine and the planet’s.) have attempted to beat it to death, but don’t let leopard print die on the quick trend hill! Wear your heels and your head high in these noticeable, but non-obnoxious options.
Dare 2 b durable?
Timbs (Platform or flat, either work) - $160
Yeah yeah, I know it’s a controversial take among the fashion world. “ThEy’Re FoR wOrK WeAr” they say. I say they work for streetwear. Get it?
In case you’re not convinced, I’ve provided some styling options for you. I own a pair of Timbs and I have to say, I don’t regret it. What’s great about this shoe is not having to worry about screwing them up — they look even better that way. A little character never hurt anyone.
In the end,
Focus on quality rather than quantity. You’ll notice Uggs are not on this list — that would be because Suede is Winter’s literal enemy. Though Uggies are certainly a cute fall staple and are bound to keep your feet cozy and warm during the holidays, they are quick to tarnish. Protective spray can only do so much, unfortunately. Don’t get me wrong, the slippers are a super valid investment for around the house or for running a quick errand. Just don’t be like my mom and get 6 pairs, all whose fur look like they’ve been through a flood. Stay warm ladies.
