Where a Fashion Stylist Would Tell You to Get Your Winter Boots

From some of Rihanna’s and Kim Kardashian West’s most iconic outfits to cementing London’s best dressed It-girl scene, super-stylist and creative director Avigail Collins is known in fashion circles for being the go-to when you’re a celebrity looking to craft an exciting new look. She’s the mastermind behind ingenious ensembles for Lorde and is the force behind some of Daisy Lowe's sassiest getups, but Avigail’s wardrobing skills extend even further: See her own streetwear-inspired line, Silver Spoon Attire, for starters. Founded in 2013, alongside her husband (and fellow sought-after stylist) Damian Collins, her high-profile music clients—and a global street style following—make up a pretty impressive fan club. If anyone can spot the next big thing, it’s Avigail, which is why we’re thrilled to have her on board at Who What Wear UK to bring you a monthly column about what's hot now.

Lucy Williams wearing Proenza Schouler Suede Boots ($990)

This month, I'm sharing my footwear knowledge with you, specifically the most reliable shoe brands for cool-looking, practical winter boots. It's all about classic pairs that you can pull out each and every year, without fail, and still feel comfortable and stylish in. Once upon a time, such clever, flat, versatile boots didn't really exist within fashion circles but these days there are top-quality footwear purveyors who really specialize in them. I'd say this is one part of your winter capsule wardrobe that deserves a little extra money. A well-made pair of winter boots will last a long time, and now that you can wear them as a trend-driven item, you'll get even more opportunities to style them out differently—hiking boots with a '90s slip dress works just as well as chunky-soled ankle boots worn with your favorite jeans. 

Shop from my edit of the best winter boot brands below…

You can't really go wrong with a pair of Grensons. They are timeless and super comfortable. The recent House of Holland collab is on my list for this winter—I love the pop of yellow and streetwear twist this gives its classic hiking boots.

I don't wear heels that much, so I always prefer to invest in a good pair of flat boots that will last throughout all my winter adventures, and then for heels, I get high-street ones that I can take to a thrift shop after a season or two. I recently bought the below version to run around in for day-to-day vibes—I'm so happy with them. Super-comfy and they remind me of some Ann Demeulemeester boots that I wanted years ago. ASOS has its own brands, but they also stock plenty of Dr. Martens (like the above), which are a good alternative.

If they are good enough for the Duchess of Cambridge, then they are surely the best of the best. I first came across this British brand years ago when I fell in love with its velvet slippers. I had the pleasure of working with Penelope on a collab we did together, many moons ago now, where we created some velvet espadrilles. I recently styled my client Jess Glynne in some suede Penelope Chilvers hiking boots for the "These Days" video, and I fell in love with them all over again. The label has really perfected so many different winter boot styles, and if you buy a pair, they will last you a lifetime as they get even better with age. 

Yes, I do have a thing for chunky lace-up boots! I can't help it; I love them. They just look good with everything, whether a simple denim look, a tracksuit, or a vintage floral dress. At least that's what I keep telling myself so I can justify the cost of these flat Prada logo boots (below). They're one a hell of an investment, but this is a brand that's known for its chunky-soled shoes and for crafting them to the highest quality… so I guess I could wait/risk for them to go on sale?

This brand constantly turns my head with its clever advertising campaigns and innovative use of fabrics and designs. The prices are great, and so is the quality—I can always trust it for doing a classic in an unusual color that will make an outfit really come together. The green croc boots (below) also come in corduroy… which I couldn't be trusted with, as I would ruin instantly. If you wear a lot of floaty dresses with boots, this should be your new go-to brand.

Like I said, I tend to buy higher-heel and trend-driven options from the high street, so this is where Zara really steps in to provide. I will definitely be purchasing these python-print boots (below) as they are the perfect nod to the cowboy boot trend that's happening right now, without being OTT. Also, they have the potential to be a great day-to-night option. So, I will be wearing mine with hoodies, cropped jeans, and oversize tailored coats, but they would also look great with a miniskirt and sheer black tights.