I'm Putting a Halt on These 7 "Outdated" Winter Shoe Trends and Opting for These Alternatives Instead.

      When it comes to outfits, I express my personality primarily through shoes. As an avid shoe lover and former shoe brand owner, I appreciate all types of footwear—even those I'd typically shy away from. Long live the so-called ugly shoe! Hand me a sneakerina! Crocs, bring them on! I adore the quirkiest laces and most unusual embellishments, just as much as I love the classics like white trainers or black leather boots. Winter seems like the perfect season to experiment with new footwear.

      When we're bundled up against the cold, our shoes often convey our style for us. Although style is subjective, I will share some outdated winter shoe trends that I’m opting to skip this season in favor of alternatives that have captured my interest. However, don't dismiss those so-called outdated styles; I assure you they’ll make a comeback eventually. This season, I’m moving away from combat boots and sparkly party shoes towards slightly more refined options like almond-toe boots and red heels. For those who love athletic styles and collecting sneakers, I’m trading out chunky trainers for more streamlined, lace-up ballet-inspired designs. I’m also thrilled to revive my love for clogs this season since they pair beautifully with wool socks and warm tights, unlike the viral split-toe shoes that have been trending this year. Ready to refresh your shoe collection this winter? Here's a detailed look at the outdated trends I’m skipping and the appealing alternatives that are perfect for your winter wardrobe.

      **Outdated Winter Shoe Trends I’m Avoiding This Season:**

      1. **Skipping: Furry Boots | Wearing: Lug-Sole Brogues**

      

       Style Insight: A recurring theme in this piece is that I prioritize functionality in footwear, especially during winter. Since it’s cold and often damp, you need shoes that can withstand the elements while still reflecting your personal style. Opting for lug-soled shoes is a great choice. Instead of furry boots this season, try lug-soled brogues or loafers, which provide a unique twist compared to your usual footwear.

      2. **Skipping: Toe-Split Shoes | Wearing: Clogs**

      

       Style Insight: While split-toe shoes may divide opinions and are certainly fun, having your toes separated in winter is less appealing. Clogs are just as enjoyable but allow you to wear cozy wool socks and tights. My interest in clogs was reignited after I spotted a woman wearing a stunning pair at Heathrow, which inspired me (thank you for not gatekeeping and leading me to ME+EM). Clogs have evolved in style since I last wore them at the age of 11. You can choose from traditional wooden styles to flat-soled Birkenstocks.

      3. **Skipping: Glitter Heels | Wearing: Red Heels**

      

       Style Insight: Glitter heels can be festive, but red heels offer a more sophisticated option. If you want to make a statement while keeping it elegant, consider red heels for your next festive outing. They stand out against a sleek all-black outfit while adding vibrant color to your ensemble, making them suitable for year-round special occasions.

      4. **Skipping: High-Shine Boots | Wearing: High-Shine Boots**

      

       Style Insight: While metallic boots have their time and place, a consistent, neutral high-shine boot can be versatile enough for any occasion. Not as shiny as patent leather but more striking than standard matte, these boots pair well with everything, from jeans and chic tops to stylish coats, tights, and skirts. Regardless of your affinity for statement boots, black or brown high-shine options are timeless staples.

      5. **Skipping: Embroidered Flats | Wearing: Pierced Shoes**

      

       Style Insight: The introduction of pierced shoes by Tory Burch was a game changer for shoe lovers. Shoes adorned with jewelry are among my top preferences in footwear. They offer an edge that embroidered flats lack and can add a metallic sparkle to any winter outfit. The way Marina styled her pierced shoes is fantastic, with her wide-leg trousers perfectly showcasing the statement footwear.

      6. **Skipping: Mega Chunky Trainers | Wearing: Sneakerinas and Laced Trainers**

      

       Style Insight: Having danced for most of my life, I never imagined I'd wear ballerina-style shoes again. While I’m not returning to split-sole or pointe shoes, the recent sneakerina trend satisfies that nostalgia. I find unique footwear appealing and often purchase trainers that could be considered "quirky" before they become mainstream.

      7. **Skipping: Combat Boots | Wearing: Almond-Toe Boots**

      

       Style Insight: Combat boots may pair well with various outfits, but a more elegant style is essential for elevating any winter look. I particularly love almond-toe boots, which blend square, pointed, and rounded shapes seamlessly. Anouk’s outfit is one I aim to replicate throughout the winter; a tailored wool coat, jeans, and sleek almond-toe boots create a timeless look.