How to wear Heels in Winter

You can definitely wear heels in winter. You just need to pay attention to whether the pair offers enough stability and is suitable for the weather conditions, if you’ll be wearing them outside.

For example: Heeled boots like the Liana or the Caliana are great for keeping you warm in the cold weather, and Block Heel boots like the Monika or Sarina boast a chunky heel that gives more contact with the ground - great for stability!

How to keep your feet warm in heels during winter

Wearing heels in winter doesn’t mean your feet need to freeze. It’s easy to keep your toes nice and toasty in the chilly weather and here’s how to do it:

• Go for heels with insulation: Heeled boots or Closed-toe heels with insulated linings are definitely a favourite in winter. Look for fleece or a synthetic equivalent as a sure fire way to keep your feet cosy.
• Wear thermal tights or socks: if your heels don’t have insulation, layering is a great way to keep yourself warm. Look for thermal tights, wool-blend socks, or similar to add warmth without adding too much bulk.
• Add cushioned insoles: insoles designed for winter use add a layer of support and warmth between your sole and the bottom of your shoe. 

Follow one or more of the tips above and your feet will be warm throughout the day, whichever heel you go for.

Which heels to wear in winter

When deciding which pair to wear, we recommend prioritising warmth, stability, and grip. This will keep you comfortable and minimise the risk of slipping, all while looking stylish.

Can I wear open-toe heels in winter?

Generally, this style is best for warmer months, as the cold air will circulate amongst your exposed toes in the winter. With the right styling they can be made to work in winter but go carefully: wear opaque tights or socks to keep warm while still looking trendy. 

Can I wear strappy heels in winter?

Strappy heels can work really well in winter, but again, because more of your foot is exposed you need to plan accordingly. Pair strappy heels with tights to keep you warm and aim to limit the style to indoor events or short periods outdoors - times when you won’t have to worry about the cold for too long.

Winter-friendly heels

There are many styles of high heeled shoe, and we recommend the ones below as providing the perfect mix of style and practicality.

• Heeled boots: Ankle or knee high heeled boots offer warmth and stability in winter, and are very versatile, pairing well with skirts, dresses, or trousers. The Kalamata and Kalista are two good choices, or the Neptune if you prefer a slightly chunkier heel. For an indoor event, an ankle boot with a stiletto heel like the Luisa brings undeniable elegance.
• Closed-toe heels: this style keeps your feet protected from the elements while retaining a classic look. The Yumi and the Yanna offer two takes on elegance, while the Brielle has a more measured aesthetic.
• Platform heels: platforms keep you elevated with more of a Block heel and usually have more surface area to offer stability. The Brielle mentioned above is a great platform heel for winter.

What to wear with heels in winter

When pairing heels with winter outfits, think about the balance between warmth and practicality that the season demands, and the sophistication that high heels bring. Some ideas:

• Pairing heels with dresses and tights: pair a Knee high boot with a cosy jumper dress and thick tights for a comfortable yet chic look.
• Pairing heels with trousers and coats: pair a Heeled ankle boot with tailored trousers and a structured coat for the perfect office-ready winter outfit.
• Pairing heels with midi dresses: pair a closed-toe Court shoe with a midi dress and wool tights for a fantastic winter look, with a tailored blazer to maximise the sophistication.
• Pairing heels with wide-leg trousers: pair a Block Heel with a wide-leg trouser for a bold, fashionable look.

The do's and don'ts for wearing heels in winter

With our styling tips in mind, here are some other things to think about when building your winter outfit with heels.

• Do choose shoes with grippy soles. Winter weather can be unpredictable, so heels with textured or rubber soles are recommended for better traction.
• Don’t skip weatherproofing. Use a protective spray to shield leather or suede heels from snow and slush, to keep them in perfect condition.
• Do layer thoughtfully. Add thermal tights, socks, or insoles for warmth without compromising the elegance of your heels.
• Don’t forget about balance. Avoid very thin Stiletto heels on icy days, instead choose block or wedge heels that offer better stability.

High Heels, high spirits

Wearing high heels in winter doesn’t need to be daunting, and there’s no reason to shelve them until spring comes back around. By taking the time to select styles that suit the season, it’s possible to create stunning winter outfits while making sure your feet stay warm, dry, and stable.  

We hope this guide has been useful in understanding which heels to wear in winter, and how to use them as the basis for excellent outfits. Take a look at our full range of Heeled shoes for women for more inspiration, or to find your perfect new pair. As always, if you have any questions about trainers just get in touch with our team - we'll be happy to help.