Winter Fashion: Riding Boots

It's no secret that I'm obsessed with heels, and the higher the better. Wearing flat shoes puts me in a bad mood. I feel frumpy in flats. But, in the dead of winter, it is sometimes necessary to put the stiletto heels in storage... at least for a day or two. Oddly enough, winter dressing-- which can make even a seasoned fashionista feel all sorts of frump-- leads to the one type of flat shoes that can make me feel super stylish. I'm all about riding boots.

Riding boots are versatile, classic and always in style. You can tuck your favorite skinny jeans in to your riding boots, or pair them with this season's can't-live-without legging. Riding boots and thick ribbed tights can turn a fall dress into a wintertime ensemble. Come spring, a skirt and riding boots can help you bridge the gap between chilly weather and the first sunny days.

Beyond what you can do with riding boots, there is also a huge range of options within the concept of riding boots themselves. A classic, equestrian riding boot is spare and slightly rugged. A fashion interpretation may include embellishments or extra detailing. Personally, I'm a big fan of the sleek, spare riding boot. But, whichever route you take, a riding boot silhouette will be a well-loved part of your wardrobe for years to come. Check out a few of my favorite options:

Sleek & Spare

Corso Como Rachel II Boot
$198.95
Available at: nordstrom.com

I recently purchased this classic Corso Como riding boot in anticipation of a mid-winter trip to NYC and I more than love it. Built-in gel inserts make it super comfy, while the 15" calf measurement means that you don't have to struggle to make your jeans fit inside. I have the Black version pictured here; it's also available in Chocolate and Caramel.

Luxe

Burberry Riding Boots
$594.99 (was $850-- save 30%!)
Available at: saks.com

This luxe version of the riding boot features an engraved buckle detail, leather lining and the iconic Burberry label in the form of logo hardware.

Budget Buy

Volatile Jockey Boot
$79.00
Available at: shoes.com

This faux leather version of the riding boot from Volatile will let you try on the style without a major investment. A 15" calf measurement is generous, but pull-on styling may make wearing over jeans difficult without the use of jean straps. Even after a $9.99 Jean Straps investment, these boots are still one of the most affordable versions I've seen.

Detailed

Frye Paige Riding Boot
$352.00
Available at: zappos.com

Layered leather panels and stitching detail give these Frye riding boots a lot of visual interest. They're available in six different colors, including this rich tan shade.