I Just Spent Hours Trying on Winter Shoes in M&S—Here Are the 7 Pairs I Loved Most

It is a widely discussed fact in the Who What Wear UK group chat that Marks and Spencer shoes are some of the best on the market.

Last week, when I shared that I was planning on popping in to try on a load of its latest winter shoes (all in the name of journalistic research), I was reminded of just how highly my fellow editors rate the high-street hero's footwear: "I have such a soft spot for M&S shoes" and "The comfort insoles are the one" are just two of the gushing comments I received. I, too, consider myself a loyal fan, and some of my longest-lasting, most-loved pairs are from M&S. In fact, I still regularly wear a pair of burgundy leather knee-high boots I bought five years ago.

So, why are M&S shoes so popular? It's not just the huge range available—from ballet flats to boots, heels and everything in between—or the fact that the M&S design team always seems to get it right. The brand somehow manages to keep up with the latest trends whilst simultaneously making shoes classic enough to be super versatile and last in our collections for years. It's the quality, comfort and affordable price point alongside all this that really sets the offering apart from other high-street stores.

Venturing in-store earlier this week, I wasn't disappointed. In my opinion, the beginning of a new season is the best time to shop for footwear, as plenty of sizes are available in all the most popular styles. I tried on at least 20 pairs, but honestly, I could have been there all day trying on endless boots, trainers and party shoes.

Below, I've picked out my favourite pairs that I predict will sell out this winter. There are plenty of easy-to-wear low heels that I can see myself wearing with everything from dresses to jeans, as well as lots of chic winter-ready boots. So, keep scrolling to shop the very best.

The Best New Winter Shoes From M&S

1. Riding Boots

Style Notes: I've been looking for a pair of riding boots for a while now. There are plenty of options on the high street at the moment, but almost every pair I tried was either extremely tight around my calves or had very hard, uncomfortable soles. I was very excited when I found this M&S pair which fit perfectly around my calves and are also extremely comfortable. I'll wear them over slim-fit jeans or leggings on casual days, and they'll also look great with my knitted dresses.

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2. Kitten Heel Pointed Court Shoes

Style Notes: It might not be clear from the picture just how amazing these pointed-toe heels are in real life, but they genuinely look so expensive. The finish is more matte than it looks online, which definitely adds to their luxe feel. A simple style that will add a touch of elegance to jeans, dresses and skirts alike, I think you'd be surprised how much wear you'd get out of these.

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3. Leather Leopard Print Mary Jane Ballet Pumps

Style Notes: Jimmy Choo? No! These are M&S, and they're the kind of shoes that will elevate any outfit. Party season is already on my mind, and these are the perfect slip-on flats for when I'll be out all night and don't want to wear heels. I certainly won't be waiting for a special occasion to wear them though—they're in my basket right now and I'll be wearing them as soon as they arrive.

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4. Leather Block Heel Ankle Boots

Style Notes: Heeled boots never go out of style, but after years of fashion people favouring flats, they've definitely had a real boost in popularity for winter 2024. This sleek black leather pair will fit perfectly into my minimalist winter wardrobe, and I'm a big fan of the thicker heel—much comfier for trekking around London.

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5. Square Toe Ballet Pumps 

Style Notes: The Square Toe Ballet Pumps have gone down very well since they hit stores. Yes, they're a more typically "feminine style, but I can see them looking so good with baggy wide-leg jeans or cargo trousers. Black is of course a classic that will go with everything, but the red pair is equally chic and will act as a nice pop of colour to break up a monochrome wardrobe.

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6. Heeled Loafers

Style Notes: Any M&S fan will tell you that its loafer selection is seriously underrated. Always comfortable, practical and on-trend, the brand currently has several styles that will remind you of designer loafers, and this patent, heeled pair tops the list. Whether you wear them to the office or out for drinks, this glossy pair is sure to get you many a compliment.

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7. Leather Chunky Tassel Flat Loafers

Style Notes: Sticking with loafers, we probably all own a pair, but if you wear yours as much as I do, you're most likely in need of a refresh for winter. Loafers are my everyday go-to, whether I'm at the office, out with friends or going to a more formal event. This pair practically moulded to my feet when I tried them on, and they come in full and half sizes so you're guaranteed to find the right fit. If you have too much black in your wardrobe, there's a sleek patent-brown option I highly recommend.

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SHOP MORE M&S NEW-IN SHOES:

This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.