Overwhelmed with winter party invites? Get into party mode by planning your footwear now (trust us). We’ve found bejeweled and bowed heels if you’d like to lean into the festive aesthetic, or shearling boots and comfy loafers if you'd low-key still prefer to be on the couch. Let’s get to it.
A heeled Mary Jane in a trendy color…
This deep burgundy is speaking to us. We love the shiny patent leather, the block heel that looks comfortable, and the classic two-strap style. Wear these with tights or high socks and pair with a sweater in the same color for a monochrome moment. ($123.75, Nordstrom)
A short pump that’s versatile…
Speaking of burgundy patent leather, these are another option with a short block heel, a strap around the ankle, and a chic square toe. They also come in black and leopard and are great for wearing to work with jeans or trousers. ($278, Reformation)
A pair of pointed-toe heels we can vouch for…
One of our editors has worn these all day and can confirm the memory-foam insole makes a huge difference. The pointed toe is classic and looks great peeping out from trousers or jeans. Plus, the price is too good to pass up. ($34.99, Target)
A pair of bow heels to really lean into the holiday aesthetic…
These are just plain fun, from the oversized tulle bow to the rhinestones all over. The skinny stiletto heel isn’t intimidatingly tall, and they slip on, so you can make a quick change if need be. They come in three colors and pair nicely with dresses. ($178, Free People)
A platform derby we can’t stop thinking about…
Coach is having a major revival, but not enough people are talking about their shoes. This derby shoe deserves some recognition, with its shiny patent leather, lug-sole platform, and subtle logo. Showing up to the party in these is so cool girl coded. ($225, Nordstrom)
Ankle boots that look way more expensive than they are…
Ankle boots will always be in style in our book. These have a skinny kitten heel and a zipper on the side for easy on and off. They’re sleek, so they’ll feel dressy enough to go with a party outfit without going overboard. Reviewers say they’re comfortable, too. ($34.99, Target)
A pair of stealth-wealth slingbacks…
Few pieces are more quietly luxurious than a pair of slingback kitten heels with a pointed toe. Even better news for partygoers: The kitten heel is so low, you’ll barely even know they’re on. Toss on a LBD, a cashmere wrap, and some dainty gold hoop earrings for a full Meredith Blake-inspired look. ($140, Free People)
A fun, sparkly party shoe…
The slingback style, the embellishment, the kitten heel; we have no notes. These look so cute with tights and would be great with a New Year’s Eve outfit. Choose from the black or the nude and get excited for your party plans. ($30, Target)
A heeled sandal by your favorite dress brand…
While you’re browsing for the perfect winter party dress, why not grab a timeless heeled sandal? The knotted upper and cylinder heel make these feel special, plus they’re just the right height to still be considered comfortable. You can’t go wrong with either of the two shades. ($278, Reformation)
A heeled boot we simply can’t resist…
This square-toe boot has a sculptural flared heel and pieced upper, which makes them feel unique. Pair them with a sweater dress for a party, then with your favorite pair of jeans on the weekend. Customers say they’re even better in person, and personally, we’d love to see the “Vanilla” colorway on our own feet. ($360, Revolve)
A metallic pump for a futuristic look…
We don’t often wear a true heel, but we might have to change our ways for these. The patent leather in iridescent silver is incredibly chic. Pair them with dark denim or leather pants, and prepare to be feeling yourself. ($90, Revolve)
A knee-high boot that comes in wide-calf sizes…
This boot is classic with an almond toe, block heel, and knee-high upper that comes in several different styles, from black to dark brown leather. They have a back zipper for easy on-and-off and come in sizes for larger calves, as well. ({{dynamicPrice}}, Amazon)
A shearling sneaker if you’re already planning on leaving early…
If Irish goodbyes are your thing, prepare for a quick getaway with these shearling-lined slip-on sneakers. They’re ultra-soft and luxurious, handmade in Italy, and have a durable rubber sole, so you won’t slip in wet weather. They come in five colors and customers say they actually keep your feet warm. ($278, M.Gemi)
A classic loafer that comes in too many styles to count…
These bit loafers are menswear-inspired and dress up a pair of jeans easily. There are leather, patent, velvet, and croc styles, so no matter your outfit, you can bet you’ll find a pair to match. We already have the cognac leather in our carts. ($71.99+, Sam Edelman)
A Going Out Boot™, if we’ve ever seen one…
The pointed toe, the block heel, the Western-inspired shaft…we need these immediately. Pair these with the Skims dress everyone is obsessed with, or jeans and an oversized sweater, and you’re ready to let your boots do the talking. We love the snakeskin, since it acts more like a neutral you can wear with everything. ($258, Saks Fifth Avenue)
Leather ballet flats you can wear year-round…
These classic flats feature extra sole cushioning for support as you stand and mingle, plus a recycled leather upper with that trademark dainty bow. A square toe gives them a modern feel. These would look just as good paired with tailored jeans and a blazer for the holidays as they would with a linen sundress in the summer. They come in six leather and two velvet options. ($104, Everlane)
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