Page 106 - South Mississippi Living - January, 2023

SHOPPING
FOCUS
Fashion:
on
All Booted Up!
Winter weather temps are nature’s call for bringing out the boots. What started as a love affair back in the fall continues to lure trend-following footwear fashionistas. That means taking a close look at what’s new, yet practical and comfortable before adding one or more pairs to the shoe closet.
Colder temperatures are traditionally an open invitation to warmly snuggle your toes down into the latest heavy boot trends, preferably faux fur or fleece lined, but once the ice melts and the rain subsides, do boots move to the back burner? Absolutely not! They simply take a quick turn and offer new versatile versions for 2023! But where does one start when there are so many excellent options for booting up and so many occasions to do so?
story by Barbara Travis
OVER-THE-KNEE STYLISH
All boots are inherently good, but
one of the most currently popular and fashionable styles is over-the-knee. Taller boots have always been a favorite among the fashion set, but they’ve recently grown to exceedingly new heights, especially paired with tights, leggings, or short hemlines. No single style of up-to or over-the-knee boot rules the roost, but prevailing designs offer a versatile choice of heels from comfortable flats to classic mid heels to sexy high heels.
There are versions for every possible occasion. Boots are just as welcome and socially accepted at weddings and parties as they are at informal occasions. The key is to select the most appropriate composition component whether it
be smooth leather, suede, patent, or a 106 | January 2023
metallic to fit the event.
Next is the proper choice of tight-on-
the-leg or a roomy, slouchy design. This is where your individuality, personality, and sense of style interpretation come into play. Go for it! Choose a basic leg enhancing design, then ponder whether to keep it plain and simple or opt for
the addition of rhinestones and other embellishments, western flair, fringe, or maybe even colorful fluffy feathers. Do your own thing! That’s what fashion’s all about!
METALLICS AND SKINNY-HEELS
For 2023, wave goodbye to platforms and lug soles, and welcome boots with skinny heels. Chic black leather boots with sleek mid-heels will be the most popular. Comfort is key. Look for a boot with a kitten heel height that will look
amazing with pants, maxi dresses, and skirts. Metallics
are also a great choice; fashion pundits say silver is
the new year’s neutral. Think of skinny-heeled silver boots
as a fun and fashionable break from traditional formal pumps.
Long story short, no matter the occasion, it’s abundantly
clear that boots in their many versatile forms,
fashions, colors, and
heights are here for the long haul. It’s easy to smile and walk with
confidence when you love what’s on your feet. Whether you’ve got your eye on dressy, casual, or cozy boot styles, your only job is to choose with care and wear with flair!
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