While you may not automatically associate winter with heels, turns out they actually make a lot of sense together. Once winter arrives, the flats and thin-soled heels you were pounding the

pavement in no longer serve your need for warmth, and the thicker the sole, the better. And with the return of holiday parties and work soirées, you’ll want to invest in a few good pairs to go with your festive outfits all season. Personally, I find the winter heel superior to its sandal counterpart because of the built-in comfort level of boots and close-toed shoes generally. Another benefit is their ability to dress up even the most mundane of outfits, even sweats.

This winter, the assortment of winter-appropriate heels is vast and includes everything from the trusted kitten-heel and ankle-boot styles to more niche styles like the loafer heels and Mary Janes. Most styles can be worn casually and also dressed up, making them great options if you’re looking to splurge on only a couple of pairs this year. Keep scrolling for the best picks from across the internet in every category and for every occasion.