7 grandma-inspired shoe styles to style this winter

STYLE
By Sophie Carter

Grandma’s shoe closet is suddenly the hottest place in fashion. Comfy, classic, and a little bit old-school, these shoes are showing up everywhere this season.

They keep your feet happy while making your outfits look polished and fun. Here are seven styles worth trying when the temperature drops.

1. Almond-Toe Pumps With a Low Block Heel

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Few shoes say classic grandma quite like a sensible pump.

The almond toe gently tapers, which makes legs look longer without pinching your toes.

A low block heel is the secret here.

It gives you a little lift, but you can still walk to the bus stop or stroll through a holiday market with ease.

Try them with thick tights and a pleated midi skirt for a cozy, put-together look.

Wool trousers work well too, especially if the hem skims the top of the shoe.

Pick black, chocolate, or deep burgundy leather, and you will be able to wear them all season long with almost anything in your closet.

2. Classic Mary Janes

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Picture a school photo from decades ago, and chances are someone is wearing Mary Janes.

That little strap across the foot has charmed people for over a century, and it is back again.

Go for black, burgundy, chocolate brown, or shiny patent leather.

Each shade adds a different mood, from sweet to sophisticated.

Winter styling is simple.

Slip on thick ribbed socks or sheer black tights, then add a plaid skirt or straight-leg jeans.

The strap keeps your foot secure, so the shoe stays put all day.

Wipe patent leather with a soft cloth after snowy walks, and it will look fresh for years.

3. Heeled Loafers

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Loafers already have plenty of fans, but a small heel takes them to a whole new level.

Think of them as the sturdy cousin of a fancy shoe, ready for work, school, or brunch.

Penny loafers offer a tidy, timeless vibe.

Tassel versions add a playful touch that feels very vintage.

Look for a sensible block heel, about one to two inches, so you get height without wobbling.

Wear them with cuffed jeans and a chunky cardigan, or with a long wool skirt.

Add slouchy socks in a bold color for a fun surprise.

Leather soles can slip on ice, so consider adding grippy rubber pads.

4. Almond-Toe Ballet Flats

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Ultra-thin ballet flats can feel like slippers made of paper.

Here is the better option: a sturdier pair with a softly pointed almond toe and a little more structure.

These look like they came from a well-loved wardrobe from the 1960s, and they feel great too.

The extra padding helps on long days when you are on your feet.

Pair them with wool socks that peek out at the ankle, or with opaque tights under a tweed skirt.

Cropped trousers are another smart choice, since they show off the shape of the shoe.

Choose leather in neutral shades so they blend into many outfits, from school days to dinner plans.

5. Low Block-Heel Pumps

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Ask any grandmother about her favorite going-out shoes, and she might describe a pair just like these.

Square or softly rounded toes give them a retro charm that pointed shoes cannot copy.

The block heel spreads your weight evenly, so standing at a party for hours feels far kinder.

Suede in caramel or gray looks especially cozy in cold months.

Style them with a knee-length dress, a chunky scarf, and a warm coat in a matching shade.

Want a modern twist?

Wear them with baggy jeans and a leather jacket.

A quick brush keeps suede looking soft, and a protective spray helps against slush.

6. Cap-Toe Flats

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Did you know the cap toe began as a way to protect the front of a shoe from wear?

Today it is pure style, and it gives flats a neat, tailored finish.

Two-tone pairs are the stars right now.

Black-and-cream or brown-and-cream versions have that polished, old-school feel, like something from a classic movie.

Since the color contrast draws the eye, keep the rest of your outfit calm.

A navy sweater, gray trousers, or a simple black skirt works nicely.

Wear thin socks or tights so the shoe keeps its sleek shape.

A little cream polish now and then will keep the light parts bright and clean.

7. Granny Slip-Ons and Clogs

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Comfort comes first with this pair.

Inspired by orthopedic shoes, leather or suede slip-ons and clogs are made for people who want to feel good from morning to night.

Their roomy shape and cushioned soles give your feet space to relax.

You can step in and out quickly, which is handy on busy, chilly mornings.

Wear them with chunky wool socks, corduroy pants, and an oversized sweater for a snug weekend outfit.

Clogs also look sharp with a long skirt.

Look for a non-slip sole and a supportive footbed, so your steps stay steady on wet sidewalks.

Comfy never looked so stylish.