What your boots say about you

Sky-high booties don’t just portray a very dramatic style — they demand attention and create a strong presence, points out Megan Brandle, Lead Client Consultant at Mackenzie Image Consulting. “One advantage to making this statement with your booties is that you give off an extremely confident and assertive image.” Pair them with tights, a mini skirt and an oversized sweater and you have a look that is sure to grab attention during the colder months, adds fashion blogger Bianca K. Vaccarini of the In Between Girls.

Shop the look: Jeffrey Campbell Lita Booties (Nordstrom.com, $160)

The girl who’s into combat boots probably has an inclination toward punk or grunge style, notes style consultant and author Sherrie Mathieson. “This look has a tough edge and is often worn by a strong woman who wants to convey a masculine side.” According to Bianca, combat boots also reflect a utilitarian fashion sense. “They can be worn anywhere, paired with anything and let you take full advantage of the colder months by keeping your feet warm. Combat boots add a bit of edge to a feminine outfit and go great with a pair of jeans,” she says.

Shop the look: Sam Edelman Darwin Combat Boots (Shopbop.com, $160)

Western boots are a classic. “They are part of authentic American Western life/culture, as well as the Nashville scene,” explains Mathieson. “Those who love Western boots relate to the ‘country’ aspect. Women who rock very colorful or bling versions are prone to wear costume-y looks and enjoy the attention their flash attracts.”

Shop the look: Old Gringo Lauren Boots (Zappos.com, $449)

Can’t get enough of boots that are easy to walk in? This shows that you are ready for anything and that you value comfort more than (or just as much as) style. “Some supportive boots can be fashionable too, like certain rain boots,” says Bianca. “Cozy boots are great for playing with the little ones on a snow day or running to the store to pick up groceries.” The woman who prefers them tends to be practical, and she’s also a family woman who values quality time with her partner and kids.

Shop the look: Bogs Footwear Summit Boot (Bogsfootwear.com, $100)

Over-the-knee boots emphasize a youthful sexuality. “If they are flat and sleek, she makes a subtle and tasteful sexual statement that’s within her comfort zone,” explains Mathieson. “However, if they are high heels, she is walking on thin ice, giving off an overt sexual message, and that may be exactly what this woman wants.”

Shop the look: GUESS Zonia Over-the-Knee Boots (Amazon.com, $200)

Riding boots are of course the right garb for any equestrian. But they are a popular style now too, notes Mathieson: “Promoted by Ralph Lauren and Hermes, this look is athletic chic and high end. The woman who is drawn to it is outdoorsy in spirit. Plus, the nod it gives to polo and upper-crust lifestyle projects stylish simplicity, youthful elegance and vitality.”

Shop the look: Aetrex Essence Riding Boot (Aetrex.com, $200)

According to Mathieson, ankle booties are a shoe that women of all personalities and ages are attracted to. “They are practical because they work with skirts, dresses or pants, so the wearer has made a selection based on ease and practicality, as well as fashion.”

Shop the look: Jellypop Women’s Pinkie Ankle Bootie (Shoes.com, $50)

Fur boots are meant to provide warmth and most look great on the ski slopes. Besides choosing them as a practical purchase in a cold climate, Mathieson says the woman who wears them as a fashion statement wants to project physical vitality, sportiness and a kittenish sexuality.

Shop the look: Tecnica Skandia Classic Fur Boot (Planetshoes.com, $400)