Bella and Gigi Hadid just anointed the new ‘It’ winter shoe — and it’s not quite what you might expect.
It may not be the first name that comes to mind today with all the comfort shoes that have taken over the shop floors, but one of the OG shearling boot brands, Sorel, is slowly but surely climbing its way back to the top.
Historically, Sorel made a name for itself for being the favourite gorp-core footwear of choice for models like Elle McPhearson, as well as for its early collaborations with the likes of Chloé in 2017. But the brand actually goes all the way back to 1962, when it was founded in Canada. The boots were beloved for their technical efficiency designed to endure extreme temperatures of down to -40 degrees thanks to their removable ThermoPlus felt liner.
But beyond practicality, the label has earned its fashion stripes through star-studded collaborations. The latest is with cool NYC label Proenza Schouler, who reimagined Sorel’s iconic Caribou shoe in a low-cut version and a Chelsea boot version, both available in black, yellow and white.
It didn’t take long for celebrities to catch onto the hyped collab. On October 23, Bella Hadid was already wearing the rubber Caribou shoes just a few weeks after their debut on the catwalk. She paired them with a white cotton underwear ensemble and a large beige jacket — a classic model-off-duty look.
Soon after, her sister Gigi Hadid wore a pair of Sorel Tivoli V boots en-route to the Victoria’s Secret fashion show with pieces from her own knitwear label, Guest In Residence.
Love them or hate them, these comfort-shoes are model approved and therefore sure to be everywhere this winter. Whether you prefer the minimalist version in collaboration with Proenza Schouler or the shearling lined winter boots, Sorel need to be in your boot rotation this winter.
A version of this story originally appeared on Vogue Germany.
Shop our Sorel picks below:
