Sleek Faux Suede Booties ($37)

Since I started this blog five years ago, I’ve met a number of public relations, media and graphic design professionals who work in offices that have “creative” dress codes.  Having worked in a “professional” offices for the majority of my career, I did some informal polling and discovered that a creative wardrobe is heavily dependent on wearing fashion-forward shoes.

To that end, I thought we’d try these slightly adventurous (at least, for me) boots from Forever 21.  They’re a knock-off of these $500 Rag & Bone boots, but the buckles remind of those gorgeous, strappy heels from Joe’s that were on the blog last week.  Also, that small open notch at the top of the boot should prevent the chunky calf that most ankle boots create by cutting off the line of the leg in an awkward place.

Other ankle boots that caught my eye include these Elastic Ankle Boots from Zara and these split-front Halogen booties.  But if the look of an ankle boot leaves you chillier than a talus bone exposed to the January chill, there is another “creative” shoe to consider: the ankle strap heel.

Sure, we could go for a basic black ankle strap heel, like these Luichiny Imi Suede heels, but let’s reach a bit further, shall we?  I adore these Chinese Laundry Celestial pumps in a two-tone neutral mix.  And if you like your heels a bit north of 4″, these LAMB pumps with a double ankle trap and sliver platform are great in navy or black.