Tantalizing Trend #3: Boots

The hint of crispness in the air, the gradual turning of leaves, football games. . . .all of this can only mean one thing: boot season! Although I am sad to see summer go, there is something nostalgic about pulling on that first pair of fall boots. 

A staple for fall, boots have never seen so many variations before. From sandal boots to thigh high boots, they come in all sizes, shapes, colors and embellishments. Ditch your shoes this season for a pair of boots, which this season, go with any ensemble. 

1. Balmain   2. Colin Stuart  3. Brian Atwood   4. Emanuel Ungaro   5. French Connection   6. Free People   7. Frye   8. Anthropologie   9. Rene Caovilla

Boot Dictionary

With so many choices this season, how do you keep them strait? This Boot Dictionary and Guide will help you decide which pair is best for you!

Shootie: New for 2009, the shootie is a cross between a shoe and a boot. Spice up an outfit that you would typically wear a pump or sandal with. 

Bootie: Brought onto the fashion scene fall of 2007, the bootie is very similar to an ankle boot, but doesn't cover the ankle. Wear these with dresses to give a pretty frock a fashionable edge. 

Ankle Boot: A boot that covers only the ankle, new styles have embelishments such as ruffles and flowers. Pair with rolled up boyfriend jeans for casual chic ease. 

Slouch Boot: The slouch boot can be any height, and is made of a soft suede or leather, allowing it to casually slouch around the leg. Dress down an outfit, and make it look effortless with this choice. 

Riding Boot: Just as the name suggests, the riding boot is made (or at least resembles) for riding horses. This equestrian inspired boot is a perfect solution for a weekend shopping trip, or casual night out. 

Over-the-Knee/Thigh Boot: My favorite boot for fall, the over-the-knee (OTK)/thigh boot comes in a few variations. The boots can either be fitted, or loose around the leg. The OTK variation covers the leg up to just above the knee. 

The thigh high version comes all the way up to the thigh. Wear these with dresses, or over jeans. When selecting a thigh boot use discretion, and lean towards a suede, round toe boot in a neutral color to avoid looking like Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman. For a more conservative look, pair thigh boots with a pencil skirt or knee-length dress. 

Fold-over boot: The fold-over boot folds typically at the top near the knee. Newer versions such as the Balmain boot pictured above fold completely in half . 

Convertible Boot: Recessionista's watch out! Convertible boots give you two boots in one, some fold over while some can slouch down. Others, like my favorite by Colin Stuart, unzip at the ankle to make two totally separate boots.