One thing I have always said about fashion is that you never say never. You may have your personal style resolutions down pat, but there can always be an item or two that pulls you in and you just must concede.

I religiously wear my ballet flats when there is no snow on the ground.  I wear them out like Amy Winehouse wears her light pink ballet slippers.  I only try to buy one new, durable pair once a year.

However, flats are not easy to wear during Chicago winters.  Walking in piles of snow that turns into dirty slush leaves precious flats open to ruin. Yes, boots are the best solution, but how about an alternative?

So I’ve opened myself up to a shoe that I swore I’d never wear: oxfords.

There really isn’t a good reason as to why I swore off wearing oxfords.  They just never really were my style, I suppose.  However, as my own personal style continues to slowly evolve, I’m becoming more open to wearing items that I’d otherwise never considered.  My biggest reason for opening up to oxfords is practicality.  I think they are the next best pair of shoes to wear when I want a break from my boots–and when I want to remain comfortable.

Here are a few pairs that I’ve had in mind: