Fall appears to be holding on for a bit longer, providing one and then another clear, brisk day that are perfect to show off your new knits (sans puffy jacket), colorful tights and especially, seasonal shoes. There are many perks to this relatively speaking clement weather – walking to class or downtown without acquiring frostbite, taking advantage of sports games or afternoons outside and the chance to keep your Uggs in the closet for a few extra weeks. Try as I might, when the snow starts piling up and there appears to be no end in sight, I absolutely fall victim to slipping into sheepskin on a regular basis. But while we have the time, why not show off a little with the latest and greatest shoe styles that can easily become the most important addition to any outfit.

Like apple cider and changing leaves, fall is synonymous with boots. Boots are an essential way to transition into your cooler weather wardrobe, and regardless of your fashion bent there is a standout look for you.

One of the most notable trends for boots this season is surprisingly one of the easiest to pull off. Over-the-knee boots dominated the fall 2009 runways, in styles that ranged from Prada’s trouser-like leather creations, to Isabel Marant’s lush stocking-like beauties. The style is more noticeable than typical mid-calf choices and can even be more practical for a warm winter transition. The best choices have a minimal heel, hit just at the thigh and come in striking color choices like grey and green. Wear Joie’s Coachella boot or Pour La Victoire’s more rugged Dahlia boot with looser proportions or layers on top to balance the stateliness on bottom.  

If you tend more towards Polo than Pretty Woman, riding boots are back with a vengeance. Although riding boots got their start as purely practical footwear for horse jockeys, they have long had a major presence in the fashion world. This fall, they are more on-trend than ever before with countless designers interpreting the style – Rag & Bone and Burberry are of mention, but look for similar, more economical riding boots from Lauren by Ralph Lauren and Franco Sarto. Keep the khakis and cable knit at home, and finish these off with stovepipe jeans or leggings and a structural coat.

My personal favorite shoe trend this season is the lace up bootie. They are a refreshing take on the ubiquitous ankle boot and can instantly add confidence and cool to any outfit. Tory Burch surprised me with a pair of killer lace up boots with striking gold ankle straps. Be brave in other strapped and cinched heeled options, or stay safe but still stylish in Belle by Sigerson Morrison’s chic combination of ankle boot and moccasin – nothing like your old Minnetonka’s. Wear anything from cropped skinny pants, skirts and rolled up boyfriend jeans with these statement pieces, keep the outfit simple and the jewelry bold to really complete the look.

 There are a countless number of inspiring flats on the market right now, and the two hottest trends could not be more disparate. Menswear-inspired loafers and oxfords and bedazzled flats both had a strong showing on fall runways. Comfortable as they are cool, these choices will instantly transform any otherwise lackluster outfit. Dolce and Gabbana offers a stunning pair of embellished ballet flats, covered in black, gold and bronze crystals. Back in reality, Nine West makes some almost equally appealing options. More casual loafers and oxfords were seen everywhere from Rag & Bone to Christian Louboutin, in new colors, like grey and white, and materials, like glitter! Find a plethora of cheaper options at Urban Outfitters. Pair with tights and revel in all the outfit possibilities.

Contact Zoe Gordon at [email protected].