We've a long and tough winter ahead of us for many reasons, and while indulging in some extra sequins or silly high heels may be the antidote for some, we're looking for practical yet polished trends to invest in over the coming months.
And, a surprising latecomer in 2020's hottest trends (after fashion flossing and flatform flip flops) ticks just those boxes: the work it welly.
An evolution of 2019's pervasive combat boot (and no doubt a throw back to the halcyon days of Kate Moss, Sienna Miller and Alexa Chung's Glastonbury style) the wellington boots of autumn/winter 2020 often adopt a similarly lugged-sole, but feature either Chelsea-style elastic sides, or Hunter-style rubber smooth tops (or both) and can sit anywhere from the ankle to the knee.
The more substantial treads make the work it welly much more appropriate for places other than a mud-caked field, while keeping the practical essence of rain boots, meaning they can take you from your lunchtime walk through the park, to a coffee meeting with ease.
'Wellies in the city are more logical than expected, especially during the winter months as they can protect your more precious footwear choices when you are running between places.' Cassie Smart, Head of Womenswear Buying at MATCHESFASHION told us of the trend.
Both Prada and Bottega Veneta sent exaggerated, candy-hued versions down their A/W20 runways earlier this year, while Ganni flooded their own catwalk show with much more wearable iterations in black and warning-sign yellow.
As we roll into the soggy season, plenty of work it wellies are popping up ready to shop - but which ones to go for?
'We’ve seen a few designers look to the wellington boot for inspiration this season with Loewe, Ganni and Jil Sander all being highlights.' Smart told us.
Shop The Work It Welly
As for how to style them, we're of the opinion they work with anything from a party dress to a sleek suit. As for Smart, she recommends teaming, 'a cropped pair like the Loewe or Jil Sander styles with a maxi skirt and chunky knit for an eclectic vibe, or the Ganni knee-high boots with a skinny jean for dog walks.'
Considering the months we have ahead, we're looking for investment items that will work hard in our wardrobes, and the work it welly should do just that.
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