Ever heard the saying "If you can't beat 'em, join 'em?" It's a handy piece of wisdom with many applications. For example, what if we thought of today's blustery snow as stylistically inspiring rather than dreadful? That's right: we're talking about off-white shoes.

Hibou, Little Burgundy's house line, claims to be inspired by British style icon Alexa Chung, and is both on-trend and affordable. While the line aims to target the "creative student," this pair would look equally smart as part of a streamlined-leather-tote-and-classic-blazer ensemble.

The "Tobiah" boots, which are also available in black, showcase the leather scale texture that's becoming a de rigeur trend, and an ever-so-slightly masculine shape. Also, for those of you who find deciding between zippers and laces to be a daily battle, these booties offer you both options (thanks to a zipper down the back). While we're not advocating trudging through salty slush with them, they'll fare nicely as a fresh start to spring.

$150. Available in store or online at Little Burgundy, 3401 Dufferin St., 416-783-0625