Boot Obsession

My latest obsession since moving to New York has quickly shifted from dresses (and cupcakes) to this fall and winter’s hottest trend: boots. I’ve learned since living here that boots are not only a trend, they are a way of life. They are a necessity. They are everywhere, they have stories, they express personalities, and everyone wants them. No matter what style of boot you choose or drool over, this fabulous accessory has the loveable quality of effortlessly pulling together any outfit. This fall you have a slue of styles to choose from for your every day comfort, the office, a night on the town…even boots to pair with the glorious changing weather patterns.

The Weekender
Finding a pair of casual boots to wear any day, no matter what you’re doing or where you’re going is the easiest piece to add to your closet for this season. Short or tall, flat or short heel, leather or suede – the opportunities are endless.
My personal favorite would have to be a classic tall leather boot in chocolate brown with a buckle (Steve Madden, $149.95). You can find your casual weekend boot, similar to this style, in any department store or boutique, and it is great because you can wear it with skinny jeans, leggings and a tunic, a dress…yep, pretty much anything.




The Office Transition
I’m willing to admit that finding a pair of shoes, or an outfit for that matter, that easily transitions from the office to dinner or drinks at night is a difficult task. Luckily, the boot trends for the fall and winter make it easier for us by giving us more option. No longer do you have to rely on the classic black leather boot with a heel. While this style will always be around, it can get old quickly. In addition to the taller leather and suede classics, we can now start considering the growing shorter boot trend, the "bootie" (Anthropologie.com, $98). The shorter ankle boot has been popping into wardrobes in a variety of texture and patterns. While this is not my personal favorite, it does offer a refreshing and fashion forward look when paired with skirts and dresses.


What is my personal favorite you ask? My eye has fallen in love with tall boots with texture.
The detailing on boots with texture adds an element of surprise to your outfit without any fuss. In addition to the detailing appeal of adding a wow factor to your outfit, it will of course be appropriate for the office as well as a night out with your girlfriends.



Cold Weather Ahead
As the cold weather has started creeping in with rain and eventually snow, more options to help us push past the dreadful blustery winter conditions have jumped onto the market. Attention has been given to both snow and rain boots alike. Last season we saw fun colorful and patterned galoshes splash into department stores and closets nationwide. For those of us who smile at the thought of dancing in the rain and jumping in puddles just because you can, this playful look is still in full force for fall with more patterns to choose from. I advise and recommend to everyone to bring out the inner child and purchase at least one pair to slip on when you’re running errands in the rain. Instant giddiness and glee included with every purchase.

For the snow bunny in us all, our options also extend beyond the ever-popular Ugg boots. Yes, the cozy and loveable brand is still around and offering more styles with fur lining and leather that will appeal to new and loyal customers alike. For those of us who are tired of the Ugg following, The North Face, Merrell and Aquatalia have a great selection to offer.












Costly Trend
There is no question that this growing trend can unfortunately be a costly investment. You are purchasing a quality piece that is typically handcrafted and involves a great deal of time and detail. And, naturally the larger department stores and designer name brands will be uber-expensive to the point where you want to run straight out the door. While you are making an investment with the bigger name brands, take comfort in knowing you do have other options. If you are looking for a great quality boot that does not cost upwards of $500, I recommend taking a look at Frye Boots (fryeboots.com, $250)
This brand has been around for 144 years and exudes quality and everything that a great pair of boots should be. If you are looking for something even cheaper, I think Steve Madden has some great options and even Target has it’s moments. In my opinion, shoes are shoes. You should pick a pair to invest in and a pair to have fun in and call it a day.




The boot craze is definitely in full force ladies, and whether you live in the big city or a small town, I guarantee you too will fall in love with 1-22 pairs of boots this season. Have fun shopping!