The Ultimate Boot Guide By Alexis Lehtonen

January 1, 2011

With winter’s chill still upon us, a look at the world of boots couldn’t be timelier. Often thought of as the last piece of an ensemble’s armor, boots are both stylish and functional in their myriad of shapes and traits. The season’s best boots have the ability to add street cred to a look, catapult an evening outfit into runway couture or merely act as a stand in to your trusted evening pump. Keep reading to find out which styles are essential and how to wear tips in our Ultimate Boot Guide.

Classic Equestrian

Certainly a more comfortable option to their other boot siblings, equestrian styles have long withstood evanescent footwear trends. Most styles come in flat, straight cuts allowing for easier on and off, while at the same time lending an air of casual refinement to a pair of jeans or leggings. Simple and traditional styles are the best to capture this look, target brands such as Tommy Hilfiger, Cole Haan, Ralph Lauren and Frye.

Cole Haan Braelyn Flat Belt Boot

Frye Melissa Button Back Zip Boot

Tommy Hilfiger Pieced Leather Flat Boot

Ralph Lauren Collection Leather Riding Boot

Biker

Nearly as eternal as the riding boot, biker boots have been gracing runways and punk concerts alike for decades. Over the past few seasons, biker boots have turned up the cool factor with buckles, studs, distressed leather and other grunge-esq embellishments. Best for toughening up a look, these black leather lovelies are just itching for a chance to rock and roll, so throw caution to the wind and walk the walk.

Pakros ‘Mid’ Boot

Rag & Bone Flat Motorcycle Boot

Stella McCartney Stud-Heeled Satin Ankle Boots

Forever 21 Studded Boots

Steve Madden Rusttik Boot

Fur Trim

One of the latest crazes, fur trim has been eagerly welcomed by boot loving ladies everywhere, and why not? It is the enhancement to all our favorite boot silhouettes, from wedge to stiletto, knee high to ankle. One of the most versatile categories in our essential style guide, the colors, textures and shapes abound in the fur trimmed trend; from funky to functional the best brands in footwear have created fur trimmed must haves this season.

Tory Burch Sebastian Fur-Trim Bootie

Joan & David Evynd

MICHAEL by Michael Kors Shoes – Lara Wedge Boots

Henry Beguelin Patchy Fur Bootie

Bootie

Try an ankle boot or “bootie” or the wildly popular “shootie” – a lower cute version of the bootie for a modern twist. Coming in every imaginable shape, fabric and embellishment, the bootie offers a less restrictive feel on your legs especially when worn under jeans or dress pants. But to really highlight these mini boots, wear them loud and proud with a fantastic skirt or shorts this Spring.

Ivanka Trump Dress Boots

Isola “Ilan” Bootie

Tory Burch Zuzu Flat Suede Bootie

Jimmy Choo ‘Glint’ Peep Toe Ankle Booties

Wedges & Platforms

To the stiletto averse, take a deep breath…wedge and platform boots are here to stay. We love that extra support from chunky heels and platform soles don’t we? Just as with platform/wedge pumps, looks for wrapped toes, cork details and ankle straps to capitalize on this of-the-moment look. Minimalism to rugged urbanite, beach chic to Victorian-inspired, there is truly the perfect pair for every woman when it comes to this group. Let your boots do the talking….

Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent

MM6 Maison Martin Margiela

Elizabeth & James Manor Wedge Bootie

Diane von Furstenberg Wedge Boot

Joie Love Me Two Times Booties

Reptile Skins

Certainly not for the faint of heart – reptile skin has long been found on pumps and cowboy boots and now some of the sleekest women’s boots are donning such patterns. The near epitome of a fashion statement, snakeskin boots and booties should be worn with a simple ensemble as to not overdo the look. Most reptile skin found on footwear these days is a faux reproduction, but don’t assume that is always the case – always double check. To really set off these boots…opt for wild dyes and interesting heel shapes.

Giuseppe Zanotti Wedge Boot

Alice + Olivia Paige Platform Booties

Mark + James Fido Leather Ankle Boots

Lanvin Python Boot

How To Wear: A Few Extra Tips

-Swap out your pumps for a pair of high-heeled boots for a posh look

-Long skirts and dresses alike appreciate a chunky heel to balance the look

-Sweet, feminine patterns look down to earth when paired with leather boots

-When wearing a tall, straight boot make sure there is the appropriate amount of space between the boot and your leg – no more than 1/2”.

-Tucking in the pant leg of jeans creates an instantly different look

-A word about skirts and boots, for a fitted skirt leave a few inches between the hemline and the top of your boot; in the case of a fuller skirt, allow the hem to drop over the top of your boot by a few inches.