THIS Is the New Shoe Trend You’ll Be Sporting in 2017

Anjerika Wilmer
Jan 18, 2017

With kitten heels set for an epic comeback this spring (we’re as surprised as you are), we figured it would only be a matter of time before we caught wind of the next big trending shoe silo. First spotted at Marni’s spring 2017 runway show, pointed toe silos called “hooties” or “vamp” are this close to making their grand debut. Between pointed-toe backless mules and dramatic chunky block heels featuring angular forms, there’s no shortage of cutting-edge versions of the It shoe of the season to snatch up. They almost always come in mule form, but you best believe there’s something for everyone. With January already well underway, it’s ‘bout time you started making progress on your style resolutions for 2017 — and what better place to start than making a vow to break away (let’s call it a well-timed hiatus) from your beloved ankle-strap heels? Ahead, we’ve uncovered 15 hootie catwalk-to-corporate-inspired steppers that will have you running the boardroom like an HBIC.

6 Iconic Winter Shoe Trends Everyone’s Wearing In 2024

I love me some shoes – my closet can attest to it. And though my trusty (and timeless!) New Balance 530s and Adidas sneaks see plenty of daily wear, I'm really looking forward to a whole new season to introduce some new shoe trends to refresh my personal style!

This winter's shoe trends fill in the gaps that the shoes of summer and fall failed to in terms of function. Several of the shoe trends on this list – other than being cute AF – prioritize warmth and provide dry respite from the season's snows.

Of course, it wouldn't be winter without some good boots. In addition to playful slouchy styles, moto boots are definitely on this season's roster. I'm also thrilled about some newer riffs on ballet flats, loafers, and slippers that gained tons of traction over the past year. If you're looking to step up your shoe game for the final bits of 2024, look no further than these shoe trends that'll fit right in with your winter wardrobe!

Scroll on for the hottest winter shoe trends for 2024!

1. Slouchy Boots

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Joana Verissimo (@joana___verissimo)

Take a page from Charli XCX's style book with some slouchy boots this winter. This shoe trend has roots that go back to the '80s, but you can absolutely rock them with some modern flair.

Banana Republic Factory

Banana Republic Factory Vegan Tall Slouch Boots

A sleek black pair of boots like these are easily wearable with everything from maxi skirts and dresses, to jeans and jorts. I like that the slouch here is a bit more understated, though you can definitely find styles that are way more exaggerated. Jennifer Lopez recently rocked a statement trench coat with her slouchy boots, and the look's living in my head rent-free.

Free People

Free People Extra Slouch Boots

Remember what I said about exaggerated? This is what I was talkin' about. These suede boots from Free People embrace folds on folds, bringing an interesting bit of texture to this boho-leaning look. The pointed toe and stitch work throughout also give this pair some nice Western flair.

Steve Madden

Steve Madden Smith Red Leather Boots

Another fun iteration of slouchy boots you can wear this winter is the foldover boot. Though smoother, you still get quite the unique silhouette! These red boots were simply made to be seen.

2. Tall Moto Boots

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by marleen elisabeth (@e1isabethng)

Moto boots are the winter shoe trend to snag if you like your outfits to have a some edge. What sets them apart from a regular ol' boot is typically the hardware visible on the sides and a chunky heel that can withstand wear.

Nordstrom

Maguire Lucca Boots

These are extremely reminiscent of the famous Frye Campus boots, especially in color. The harness gives them a good biker edge, though you can also choose to remove it based on your mood. Since most moto boots hit right under the knee, they work just as well with mini dresses as they do wide-leg jeans.

Anthropologie

Ash Trinidad Boots

Black pairs with everything, plus the darker color adds a good amount of mystery to any moto-inspired winter look. I'd rock these with some vintage jeans and a warm, chunky sweater. Bonus points for a vampy makeup look.

Steve Madden

Steve Madden Ruskin Chestnut Suede Boots

Suede is undoubtedly one of the main stars in this winter's shoe trends, no matter what kind of shoe it's featured on. The more you wear these, the more character the suede takes on. It's a win-win.

3. Pointy Flats

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by ANASTASIA KOROL (@anastasiavkorol)

Let's get straight to the point: pointed toes are in. They're perfectly fierce and feisty – I think they're the ultimate style for happy hours or nights out with the gals. You can shop all kinds of shoes with pointed toes, like boots, booties, and kitten heels, but pointy ballet flats are truly where it's at if your main consideration is comfort.

Nordstrom

Linea Paolo Noella Flats

The lace-up bow styling and dotted trim on these flats give 'em the cutest coquette vibe.

Free People

Jeffrey Campbell Lilly Buckle Slingback Flats

For an edgier take, these slingback flats boast some real eye-catching buckles. Pair them with some baggy jeans, a basic tee, and a chore jacket to totally nail all of this year's fashion trends.

Nordstrom

Jeffrey Campbell Pistil Pointed Toe Flats

These flats are iconic not only in shape, but in color, too. Brighten up the drab winter season with this playful burst of yellow! I promise you won't regret it.

4. Platform Mocaasins

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Clarks Originals (@clarksoriginals)

You have the Clarks Wallabees to thank for the resurgence of moccasins this season. I personally adore them for their standout silhouette, and it's only a bonus that they're uber-comfortable for the cold temps! Moccasins come in many different styles across the brands we love, listed below.

Free People

Clarks Wallabee Boots

These booties are perfect for laid-back winter outings. Pop on a pair of jeans and your go-to cold weather layers, and you're ready to conquer anything – in style.

SeaVees

SeaVees Hayward Platforms

The contrast between these shoes' upper and lower halves is so cute to me. They were purposefully designed to be part-sneaker, part-loafer, so you can easily dress them up or down based on the day.

UGG

UGG Women's Disquette Alpine Slippers

Though more of a slipper, these UGGs still retain a ton of classic moccasin details. The laces and stitching are a dead giveaway, plus you get to enjoy the comfort of a slipper (thanks to the lining) without them wearing out super quick (just look at that thick outsole)!

5. Burgundy Loafers

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Zainab Khan Mirza 🍄 (@zainabmkhan)

Burgundy (AKA dark cherry red) proved to be one of 2024's hottest colors across all sectors of fashion. Thus, it's no surprise that it's been creeping its way towards footwear! Burgundy is quite the sophisticated color, finding its match with an equally sophisticated shoe style: loafers.

DSW

Mia Amore Hali Penny Loafers

Though more polished, you can still wear loafers casually with jeans and graphic tees. I think they look best when you have a basic sock on, too.

Dr. Martens

Dr. Martens Adrian Snaffle Pebble Grain Leather Kiltie Loafers

The burgundy color trend also gives you the perfect opportunity to work in a pop of color to your wardrobe without going too bold, if you're not really ready to invest in brights (or if they're just simply not your thing).

Steve Madden

Steve Madden Madison Burgundy Box Leather Loafers

You can literally put some prep in your step with these classic leather loafers.

6. Fur-Lined

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by UGG® (@ugg)

Peeps of fur (or preferably, faux fur) are this winter's final prominent shoe trend, mostly thanks to the UGG brand's signature faux sheepskin lining. These styles are undeniably cozy and functional for providing all the warmth your feet need this season.

UGG

UGG Classic Chillapeak Boots

Boosted with furry texture and height from the platform soles, these UGGs are perfect for wearing aprés ski or just on those bone-chilling cold days in the city.

Tommy Hilfiger

Tommy Hilfiger Lined Lace-Up Snow Boots

These lined boots were specifically made to stand up to snow, but still look so stylish. I love the crossing laces and suede paneling on the sides that make them feel more a tad more upscale!

Nordstrom

UGG New Heights Genuine Shearling Cuffable Boots

You can wear these rolled up or cuffed down to show off more of the soft shearling lining. I love that these UGGs push past the brand's typical look with a funky curved footbed and chunky sole.

Subscribe to our newsletter for more seasonal style trends!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

shoesfootwearfashion trendswinter fashionshoppingoutfit inspostyle

Oop! Brianna Chickenfry Spotted With New Man Amid Zach Bryan Breakup

Zach Bryan and Brianna "Chickenfry" LaPaglia's explosive breakup is everywhere right now. From his seemingly one-sided social media posts to all the bombshell revelations she keeps dropping, it's clear this split is NOT amicable. Both parties are dropping tons of lore, info, and everything in between — including new music?! — right now, so it makes sense if you can't keep up. Luckily, I'm here to help break this breakup down for you! Here's everything you need to know about Zach Bryan and Brianna Chickenfry's relationship...or lack thereof.

Neilson Barnard/Getty Images for The Recording Academy

October 22, 2024 – Zach Bryan Announces His Breakup With Brianna Chickenfry

On October 22, 2024, after some recent speculation that Zach Bryan and Brianna Chickenfry split up, Zach took to his Instagram stories. The country star said, "Addressing something: Brianna and me have broken up with [each other] and I respect and love her with every ounce of my heart. She has loved me unconditionally for a very long time and for that I'll always thank her."

He continued, noting, "I have had an incredibly hard year personally and struggled through some pretty severe things. I thought it would be beneficial for both of us to go our different ways. I am not perfect and never will be. Please respect Brianna's privacy and space in this and if you have it in your heart, mine too."

To wrap it all up, he closed by apologizing to his fans. He said, "With everything I am and to anyone I let down, I am sorry. I try my best in everything. I failed people that love me and mostly myself."

www.youtube.com

- YouTube

Brianna hopped on her own Instagram stories shortly there after. She posted, "Hey guys I'm feeling really blindsided right now. Gonna hop off social media for a while and attempt to heal privately, when I'm ready I'll be back and ready to talk. I love you guys so much thank you for all of your kind words. Remember you are so loved and everything's always gonna be okay 🫶"

The Brianna got on Youtube next, posting a raw, emotional video about the situation. Sitting on the floor of her bathroom, she opened up as much as she could in the moment about her breakup. She said, "I just woke up to Zach posting on his Instagram that we broke up and I had no idea that post was going up. He didn't text me, he didn't call me. I just woke up to a bunch of texts, like, 'Are you okay?'"

Brianna, with her teary eyes and red face, explained she's been crying for "five days straight." She said, "I'm at the point where it's like, how can you give someone everything and love them so unconditionally, like through stuff that you shouldn't because you just love them and you want them... like you see the good in them?"

The internet personality said that this is all "so embarrassing" and "really, really heartbreaking." She elaborated that the couple broke up on October 21, but wanted to process on her own and "didn't want it to be public."

Much like her Instagram story, she told her audience that she'll come back when she's ready.

www.youtube.com

- YouTube

November 7, 2024 — Brianna Claims Zach's Emotionally Abusive, Wanted $12Mil NDA

Well, it appears this week, Brianna decided she's ready. On Barstool Sports' BFF's Pod November 7, 2024, Brianna gave an inside look at the breakup unlike any other. Not only did she claim Zach was abusive, but she also alleged that he offered her a $12 million NDA to "not talk about the relationship."

After saying it's been the hardest year of her life, she said. "I'm still scared right now because I'm scared of him. My brain's rewired and I'm scared to make him mad and last week, I didn't want to talk about it 'cause I was scared."

Brianna then described the alleged emotional abuse. She noted that everything was cyclical and that he would build her up only to break her back down again. "There was always another excuse as to why he was treating me so poorly and why I'm crying myself to sleep every night, why he's screaming at me," she said. "And then you wake up, it's the apology, it's the 'I'm going to be better like I need you in my life,' but if you've been through this — I don't expect people to understand emotional abuse if you haven't been through it. I hope you never have to go through it but if you've been there you know what I'm talking about."

Not only does Brianna allege she was offered an NDA, but she said that other women that came before her had to sign their own agreements. She declined the offer because she didn't want to "sign away [her] experiences and what [she] went through to protect someone that hurt [her]." She also wanted to share this experience for other women who've suffered something similar.

And when it comes to the logistics of losing out on the famous lifestyle and alleged $12 million? She said, "It was never about the money — I was with the dude because I loved the dude."

Jason Kempin/Getty Images for Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival

November 8, 2024 — Zach Quit Touring Amid Abuse Allegations

On November 8, 2024, Zach posted on Instagram — where he clearly loves to share all his big news — that not only is his new single "High Road" out today, but that he's also ending his tour early. Read his full statement here:

After not being home for a year and a half I drove out to my mothers gravestone in the dead of night a few days back on familiar Oklahoma roads and I came to realize just like in the past, that she never would call me again

Told her I quit touring because I got accepted to get my masters in Paris next year, I told her I was back in Oklahoma, told her about all my best friends in New York and all the nights we howled with the moon, told her about the immeasurable laughter my band and me have shared these last five years, all the calluses on my finger tips, every tear shed, told her about making it on The Rolling Stone and most importantly told her about porch swinging with my beautiful sister.
I wrote the chorus for this song a month or two back and finished it when I realized I was blessed with all these things.

I figured it was about time I released it.

Thank you guys for listening to ‘This Worlds a Giant’ last night and thank you to all the people who love me; who have truly carried the weight with me.

Seems that all these Quiet Dreams have gotten much too heavy but I’m home now and I’ll hold you through the pain.

High Road is out today and I appreciate all of you"
@ihatebriannachickenfry

Sometimes all you need is a nyc sunrise and some good pals

♬ I Can Do It With a Broken Heart - Taylor Swift

November 15, 2024 — Brianna Alleges Zach Bryan Picked Out Engagement Ring For Her

It goes down in the DM, according to Brianna (& Yo Gotti). In a TikTok caption, Brianna explained that her "biggest celeb crush tried to slide [in her DMs] a few months back" but that she denied it given her relationship with Zach. Then, in the comments Brianna elaborated that she continues to learn more about Zach's alleged infidelities — and how deep they really go. She wrote, "Been finding out he was cheating the whole time lol. The week he showed me my engagement ring he was DMing girls hahahahha.” OOF, that's tough.

November 17, 2024 — Brianna Posts TikTok With A New Man... & Threatens To Post Alleged Abuse From Zach Bryan

After going through Taylor Swift's entire anthology (girl, we've BEEN there!), it's clear Brianna Chickenfry isn't about to let her breakup with Zach Bryan bring her down. The podcast host posted a TikTok on November 17, 2024 with the caption, “Sometimes all you need is a nyc sunrise and some good pals." And while that message is sweet, we noticed something else pretty sweet — the man she's seemingly cuddled up with throughout the 42 second clip!

Commenters were quick to notice, too — one person even writing, "That was fast." Brianna responded, “Well I was cheated on my whole relationship so yeah," clearly proving she doesn't care what anyone thinks right now. And good for her!

That same day, Brianna threatened to share videos of alleged abuse from her relationship after Zach kept posting pictures of her cats, according to Page Six. She said the videos depict “whipping s–t at my face," but her reps have yet to respond to Page Six for comment about this.

Definitely a whirlwind of a day in the life of Bri...

Looking to stay up-to-date on all your fave celebs? Follow us on Facebook for more!

celebritiescelebrity newscelebrity breakupscelebrity couples

5 Winter Coat Trends For 2024 Everyone Should Try This Year

‘Tis the season for cold temperatures, so if you’ve gotta bundle up, you might as well do it in style. Of course, you shouldn’t have to sacrifice warmth for the look – which is exactly where these trusty wintercoats come in! The winter coat trends on schedule for 2024 truly have range – they vary widely in length, material, and texture, but all look so chic no matter what layers you throw on. These are the winter coat trends you need to know to guide your next cold-weather shopping spree. Betweenbarn jackets and shaggy faux furs, you’re sure to find a style that speaks to you.

Trench + Longline Coats

Reformation

Reformation Matteo Trench

Trench coats definitely give you the most coverage, which is perfect for those extra-cold days. More than anything, they supply major main character energy to any look you plan to wear this season. The longline cut brings the drama!

Abercrombie & Fitch

Abercrombie & Fitch Classic Long Trench Coat

This green trench hosts all the classic details: a double-breasted collar, side pockets, and a tie waist. It's timeless as can be, so you can wear it year after year in endless ways.

J.Crew

J.Crew Wrap Trench Coat

If you dare to make a statement, this bold red trench coat is the piece for you. The thick wool-blend fabric will also keep you super snug.

Barn Coats

Free People

We The Free Denim Barn Coat

Also called barn jackets or chore coats, barn coats bring a sense of utility to your outfits. They're definitely very trendy at the moment, but I think they're worth wearing past this season alone since you can easily layer up or down depending on the weather.

Reformation

Reformation Harrison Utility Jacket

Snag a barn coat in a neutral colorway like this, and you've got yourself an absolute wardrobe staple that wears well with any of the colors in your closet. I'd layer this piece up with a sweater, wide leg jeans, and cowboy boots for a chic tomboy-ish look.

Nordstrom

1.STATE Oversize Cotton Twill Barn Jacket

This barn coat is intentionally oversized, so it'll be perfect for topping off the multiple layers you've gotta rock for those colder-than-cold days. The sleek buttons and contrasting collar spice this clean-cut style up the perfect amount.

Exaggerated Puffers

Urban Outfitters

The North Face 1996 Retro Nuptse Jacket

When it comes to puffer coats, try taking them a step further by finding styles like this that really emphasize the puffiness. The stitching adds eye-catching textures and patterns that'll supply your outfits with extra oomph. This puffer in particular expertly insulates your body heat with 700 down fill – even snow days are no match for its comfort.

Gap

Gap Oversized Denim Puffer Jacket

I've never seen a denim puffer coat before, but now that I've stumbled upon this style from Gap, I need one ASAP. The boxy fit is ideal for piling more layers on, but the silhouette won't entirely drown your figure out.

Free People

Free People Solid Cotton Candy Puffer

This "puffy to the max" coat makes a statement with dramatic balloon sleeves and a stand collar that's perfect for cozying up to when the wind chill is just too much.

Leather Bomber Jackets

Target

Wild Fable Faux Leather Oversized Bomber Jacket

Bomber jackets made in a leather (or in this case, faux leather) fabrication feel much more polished and mature than the polyester ones of days past. They toe the line between dressed-up and casual, which is perfect for when you don't want to think too hard about your winter 'fits.

Free People

We The Free Buckle Up Vegan Leather Jacket

This pick is perfectly oversized to accomodate more warming garments like sweaters, long sleeve tees, and flannels. Layer up!

Anthropologie

Pilcro Oversized Washed Faux-Leather Jacket

This is an undeniable statement coat you can wear on repeat with dresses, skirts, jeans, trousers, and more!

Shaggy + Sherpa Jackets

Mango

Mango Jacket with Shearling-Effect Lining

For a fun play on texture, sherpa-lined and shaggy coats are the way to go. This one is also weighted heavy enough that you won't need many extra layers to keep warm while you're out and about!

Nordstrom

Sam Edelman Faux Shearling Short Jacket

You'll fall in love with just how soft this coat is. It pairs well with more formal party 'fits as well as casual errand get-ups.

Gap

Gap Recycled Faux Fur Coat

No matter what you're wearing underneath, this longline faux fur coat will turn heads. I think it'd look simply iconic with some leather pants and chunky black boots!

Subscribe to our newsletter to shop more editor-loved winter styles!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

winter fashioncoatsjacketsshoppingstyle

Jennifer Lawrence's Second Baby (Bump) Is Already More Stylish Than I'll Ever Be

Jennifer Lawrence announced she's pregnant, and we couldn't be happier for her! Though she and her husband, Cooke Maroney, aren't known for being in the public eye too much, it seems like this is one piece of news they don't mind sharing! Sorry, but we haven't been this excited about baby news since Suki Waterhouse and Robert Pattinson became parents — excuse us while we celebrate!

Here's everything we know about baby number 2 so far.

November 17: Jennifer Lawrence Glows On The Red Carpet Again

Jon Kopaloff/Getty Images

Not only is Jennifer Lawrence glowing during her second pregnancy, but she's also showing how stylish moms can be! According to WWD, she wore a gorgeous brown Bottega Veneta gown to the Governors Award event and looked like a goddess on the red carpet. The dress and its gold hardware complemented her skin beautifully along with her matching clutch!

It seems like maternity style gets better every year and it gives this mama hope that the world sees that life doesn't stop just because we have kiddos in tow!

Has Jennifer Lawrence debuted her baby bump yet?

Anna Webber/Getty Images for AFI

YES! Jennifer Lawrence's baby bump was the star of the Zurawski v Texas premiere (via PEOPLE). She wore a structured white dress with a black belt around her waist that accentuated her cute baby bump and appeared to be glowing.

According to Deadline, she's one of the executive producers of Zurawski v Texas, a documentary that sheds light on the "restrictive abortion laws" that put women's lives in danger in Texas. Alongside producers Hilary and Chelsea Clinton, Jennifer's involvement in the documentary as a pregnant woman makes a pivotal statement during a time where mothers' mortalities aren't always considered during their pregnancies.

When did Jennifer Lawrence announce her second pregnancy?

Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images for BFI

Leave it to Vogue to get the exclusive scoop about Jennifer being pregnant again! According to the publication, an official "representative for the actor confirmed" the news yesterday, October 20. So exciting!

When is Jennifer Lawrence's second baby due?

Kevin Mazur

Jennifer Lawrence hasn't announced her due date yet, so we can't be quite sure! However, if she's out of her first trimester, Jennifer could have her baby around April 2025!

What have Jennifer Lawrence and Cooke Maroney said about their family?

John Phillips/Getty Images for Sony Pictures

It seems Jennifer Lawrence and Cooke Maroney were open to the idea of having another baby as recently as this summer! An unknown source told Entertainment Tonight, "Jennifer and Cooke are doing very well and are super in love. They make each other laugh and have the best time parenting together. They would love to have another kid and expand their family."

When was Jennifer Lawrence's first baby born?

Sebastian Reuter/Getty Images for Sony Pictures

Jennifer and Cooke's firstborn son, Cy, was born February 2022, which means he's almost three years old!

The actress later explored her feeling about becoming a mom in another Vogueinterview. "It’s so scary to talk about motherhood. Only because it’s so different for everybody. If I say, It was amazing from the start, some people will think, 'It wasn’t amazing for me at first,' and feel bad. Fortunately I have so many girlfriends who were honest. Who were like, It’s scary," she said.

What has Jennifer Lawrence said about being a mom?

Amy Sussman/Getty Images

It seems like Jennifer found her stride because she's apparently embraced being a mom. She hasn't said anything recently, but she did speak with Entertainment Tonight last year during the promotion of No Hard Feelings about her parenting habits. "Of course, the urge to stop anything from ever hurting or negatively affecting your baby..." she said.

However, co-star Andrew Barth Feldman had nothing but positive words to share about Jennifer as a mom. "Jen is an amazing mother, for real. That was kind of one of the incredible things about doing this with you is seeing just how much of a priority being a mother is for you and how deeply you care about that over everything," he said.

We can't wait to see how Jennifer's second pregnancy develops and hope she's willing to give us a little sneak peek of how she's prepping to have two young kids!

Follow us on Facebook to stay tuned for updates!

celebritiescelebrity couplesentertainmentjennifer lawrencensfwcelebrity news

4 Habits Women With Tons Of Friends All Have In Common

Have you ever wondered why it seems some women always have the best friendships? We're talking about on the level of Sex and the Cityor Insecure. It's debatable whether some of those friends are toxic or not, but that's another story. The point is, it seems like some women have the best luck when it comes to building fun and supportive platonic relationships.

Are there unique qualities women in this position share? According to friendship coach Zoe Asher and licensed therapist Nicolle Osequeda, the answer is yes! Asher is host of the top-rated Accidentally Intentional podcast while Osequeda is the owner and founder of Lincoln Park Therapy Group, giving them an inside look at how people tend to approach all types of relationships!

Let's dive in!

Here are the unique qualities women with lots of friends share.

1. Women with a lot of friends value connection & community.

Andrea Piacquadio/Pexels

The one thing everyone with a solid group of friends can agree on is how it feels like you've built your own supportive community. Friends are often the first people we turn to with good or bad news, or the ones we simply want to go on adventures with. Osequeda says, "Women with strong friendship circles often value connection, community, and the power of vulnerability."

There's a realization that women in this unique position are able to "recognize that life is richer with a support system," says Osequeda. This involves "people who will listen, validate, and be there through both the highs and lows" she adds. From the friend who stayed up with you all night after a bad breakup to the one who cheered the loudest at your graduation, women who have a huge friend circle know that life feels better when we can connect with others.

Based on her experience as a therapist, she's "observed how women start friendships by gradually sharing layers of themselves." This can look like "having children at the same school or bonding over shared interests," she adds. This vulnerability is important because it creates a foundation that signals to women they've found their tribe.

2. Women with multiple friendships are open to vulnerability.

Like Osequeda mentioned, vulnerability can deepen our friendships. "These women are open to sharing the 'messy' parts of themselves which builds a deeper, more authentic bond." Also, she notes women with a lot of friends "aren't afraid to shed layers and be real" because "this vulnerability strengthens their sense of community." The more this happens over time, the more it "helps foster the connections" women with a lot of friends "cherish," according to Osequeda.

Honestly, she says "we’re all wired to seek out connection, and friendships provide that sense of community, validation, and belonging." She believes we truly "crave spaces where we can share our thoughts and feelings about what truly matters to us."

Asher believes women with lots of friends are "usually drawn towards one another in friendship" based on two levels:

  • Level 1: Shared interests, appearance of confidence, a positive energy that they feel (smiling helps with this!)
  • Level 2: (When in conversation) the safety they feel when speaking to another person, [emotional compatibility], how engaged the person is in conversation, and a desire to learn more about them, ultimately to find shared values.

This determines how women move forward in friendships. The approach is often led with "a deep sense of authenticity and care," according to Osequeda. "This is because women want relationships where they can be themselves, sharing hopes, dreams, and frustrations without judgment."

3. Women who have a lot of friends like other people they're friends with.

Again, the fact women with lots of friends actually like the people in their chosen circle is monumental. Asher says, "An interesting Yale study done in 2003 sought to look at 'popularity' in high schools to see if they could find something that all of the most liked and most popular kids had in common (outside of being a jock, etc.,)."

The common thread? "THEY liked the highest amount of people," Asher reveals. I talk about being a people pleaser a lot, but genuinely liking others isn't the same as that. IMO, it's actually admirable when people can respect others regardless of their race, religion, socioeconomic status, or sexuality.

She knows you're likely asking, "How does this apply to women having a lot of friends?" Her answer? "Across the board, the principle here is that women with the most friends are continuously on a hunt to find good and likable things about others."

However, this isn't based on a selfish need or want. "They've determined that the time invested in others is of mutual benefit," says Asher because "the biggest coast in adult female friendships is time — the most finite resource we all share in common."

4. These women also don't mind making new friends.

Elina Fairytale/Pexels

While making friends as adults shouldn't be hard, it definitely doesn't mean it comes easily. From overthinking to social anxiety, there's so many reasons why we struggle. Also, this idea we're doing fine without friends isn't exactly helpful or positive. Asher says, "The CDC has said that the impacts of loneliness on our bodies are more harmful than smoking 15 cigarettes A DAY! Making time for quality friendships (and the pursuit of it) is just as important for your physical state as working out is."

Where should you start if you want to forge new friendships? Osequeda says, "Start within communities that already resonate with you — whether it’s your child’s school, your workplace, a gym, dog park or a shared hobby. Places where you already belong create natural opportunities to connect." She even suggests giving "apps like Bumble BFF or local meet-up groups" a chance because they "can also help you find like-minded friends." But don't think you're limited to this!

Though Asher agrees that women tend to approach "friendships by trying to find commonalities right from the beginning," she says you don't have to confine yourself to this formula. "The reason I don't think this is best is because we are boxing ourselves in when we do this. The greatest friends could be on the other side of the stereotypes we're creating," she notes. Taking it a step further, Asher shared her own experience with this. "I watched all 3 of my best friends get married and have kids all before I ever got married. On the outside, most women would think 'They don’t have anything in common.' But on the inside, the character traits and values we each were looking for were mutual, and that became a more important compass for our friendship than the stage in life we were each in."

She was even surprised she'd become close to her best friends because of how things looked externally. "We had nothing in common, but I'm so glad I didn't box myself in," she says excitedly.

Here Are Even More Ways To Make New Friends!

Asher has three ways you can open yourself up to new adult friendships if you're interested.

  1. The most important place to start is our mindset. We have to first decide “I don’t want to be lonely anymore, and I’m worth having meaningful friendships.” When we make that decision, then we give ourselves permission and the courage to step out and take action in that! Important note about this: there was a study done at Stanford that revealed that people are 1.5x MORE likely to accept us than we think they are! So don’t let the fear of rejection hold you back!
  2. Go first. Make the ask, and then make the plans! Saying “We should hang out sometime” is ineffective because “sometime” isn’t a day on the calendar! We cannot wait for other people to want to pursue a friendship with us, because most of us are in this same boat — not knowing where to start! We can pursue connection, get plugged into a community (examples: book club, fitness class, church, etc), or create our own connections by just inviting someone over to our house/apartment. The biggest thing we need to remind ourselves of that is to stop making excuses, or pre-determining how we think people will respond!
  3. Again, don’t box yourself in. Don’t let your preconceived notions of what you think your archetype of a friend will look like stop you from spending time with others who don't fit that label. As addressed above, the friendships we’ve been looking for our whole lives could be right behind the stereotypes we’ve created! It’s more about character traits than it is about the external compatibility of hobbies or stages of life.

Osequeda's last piece of advice? "If you already have a friend group, meeting friends of friends is another great way to grow your circle. They key is taking that first step with a little bit of vulnerability — start a conversation, ask a question, and show interest." She's sure "it's these small moments of openness that create lasting connections!"

Want to know if you've taken on a certain role in your friendships? Discover the 11 ways you can tell if you're an empath!
friendshipspersonalityrelationships