Winter is a challenging time to cultivate personal style. Unless you enjoy dressing like a Yeti on a regular basis, it can be tough to wear what your heart desires when it's -25 with the wind chill and the entire world is covered in slippery ice and slushy snow—much like how it's been for the past few weeks in Toronto.

Since it's our feet that come into contact with the physical elements of winter the most, they deserve protection that's as durable as it is weather-resistant—without sacrificing looks, of course. After all, just because the weather's frigid doesn't mean we should be forced to don footwear that makes our calves look like tree trunks.

Frye's Engineer boots have long been a wardrobe necessity for style- and comfort-conscious women living in areas with "serious" winters, precisely for the reasons mentioned. Prized for their heavy duty leather and classic, rugged design, these boots were made to last through years of snow and sleet, and thus are well worth the price tag. The oil-treated leather prevents it from cracking and succumbing to the effects of salt (no more white patches on your boots!), and the rubber sole is ideal for wet and slippery conditions. Plus, they look great in the summer with a floral dress!

$318. Available online or in store at Gravity Pope, 1010 Queen Street West, 647-748-5155