I bought these last week as I had no winter boots to speak of, and my am I glad I got them!! The snow hit badly and I had these babies to keep my footsies warm! The sole is thick and sturdy, so very suitable for the snowy, icy conditions at the minute, but I think that they would still look great any time of the year, with jeans or a skirt. I think that the sole might actually make them harder wearing and longer lasting than the type with the very flat sole, which gets worn down quickly. My only disappointment is that after a week of barely removing them from my feet, the cosy fur inside the boots gets flattened a bit, but that's to be expected! Otherwise, a great buy and worth it for the winter. I must admit though, I got mine in TK Maxx for a bargain £42.99! Brill.