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Winter is upon us, and it’s about time to think about footwear for this season. The good news is that most couturiers have announced the hot trends of this winter already and we can start looking for a pair or two that will protect us from the cold.

It may seem that while they were creating their fashion lines, designers weren’t looking closely at the needs of the ordinary woman — one who leads a hectic life, balancing the workplace and home. But take a closer look and your trapeze skirt can go well with stiletto shoes too. Or, for that matter, your expensive coat can very well get accessorised with a pair of ankle boots. So, go splurge.

Booted heels

This season, high boots, jackboots and even ankle boots have high heels — or so states the Versace Jeans Couture. The high-fashion brand has launched these chic, high-heeled, boots. The collection has it all: Bright colours, luxe fabrics and even sharply pointed shoes, whatever it takes to stand out.

Our verdict: Versace’s collection is going to spin high-heeled Mary Janes into a combination of schoolgirl sweet and sexy vamp. Just fork out Rs 30,000 (and upward) and these could be your style for the season.

The FoHo look

It’s the new foho or folk-inspired with an ethnic twist look, which is being popularised by Gucci. Fringed boots are the defining feature of the season, with details like studs and tooled leather adding to a crafty, bohemian feel. Pair these short-fringed ankle boots in leather or suede with bare legs or tights.

They can add a ruffian charm to a sophisticated outfit, or be added to an everyday outfit for casual chic. Prices start from Rs 71,000, which should assure you that your feet will stand an inch above the rest.

Sheer luxe

While the Wall Street takes a punch in its gut, you might have stashed away Rs 69,000 (or maybe more) to lay your hands on these Stella McCartney boots. Because there is no possible way any self-proclaimed fashion guru could bypass a pair of these new Stella McCartney patent ankle boots. Sitting on five inches of pure wooden fury, don’t just marvel from afar. Grab one of these — as soon as you can scrounge up some green bucks.

Freaky comfort

Jean-Paul Gaultier’s style is by far the freakiest, and yet the most desirable. From Victorian influences to sexed-up schoolmistress heels, Gaultier plays up laces and offers a unique style and heel. Bottega Veneta, Derek Lam, Dolce and Gabanna and Donna Karan recreated the theme of “laces on boots” this year. Price on request.

Buckle up

Burberry’s edgy metal studs detail the buckled collar of a sleek leather ankle boot. This is everyday-chic and a definite must-have in your winter wardrobe. Price on request, but do remember this may re-define your boring old style. Gucci brings in heels that start thick at the top and taper down, often with a curve, into a stiletto-esque point at the bottom. Not as much a classic shape, so buy them if you intend to wear them over the next few seasons.