Best boots to buy for fall

You don’t have to live on a ranch to take part in this season’s western wear theme. Meg Gallagher, a fashion blogger and personal stylist in New York City and Los Angeles, contends that new variations on traditional cowboy boots are a major fall fashion trend. Try an updated classic like Justin Boots’ new Bent Rail collection featuring a higher heel and eye-catching stitching (RCC Western Stores, $170). Pair them with dark skinny jeans, a white tank top, blazer and layers of long necklaces for the perfect anywhere look.

More of a fashionista? You can’t go wrong with Old Gringo’s Belinda (seen here) or Mini Belinda (Old Gringo, prices vary). The Belinda’s knee-high shaft, metallic studding and distressed leather finish make the boot a true head-turner that’s perfect for pairing with a simple dress or sexy mini skirt. For the more reluctant western woman, the Mini Belinda offers a lower-profile version of its taller counterpart that’s equally eye-catching.

Rather than the stacked heel or stilletto associated with boots of years past, Sarah McManus, a stylist and fashion blogger from Boston, says, “Wedge boots will be seen everywhere, as they are comfortable and chic, able to brave the slippery sidewalks and the hot new bar.” There are lots of great wedges on the market, but for a classic boot that will last for years, pick up the Bromley Wedge Boot by MICHAEL Michael Kors (Piperlime, $90).

Already have too many classic boots to count? Take advantage of another big trend for fall: The sporty look! Tsubo’s Hadley features contrasting laces, a cozy fabric cuff and an easy wedge (Tsubo, $170). Wear them with skinny jeans and a fur-lined jacket on chilly fall nights.

Sheepskin favorites like Emu and Ugg have made comfortable booties a fall fashion staple. Take a break from the go-to brands, and stay cool while keeping warm in the Cushe Quilty Pleasures (Cushe, $135). These cute booties feature waterproof suede and a thermal fleece lining that make them the perfect footwear for cheering on your favorite football team or taking an afternoon walk with your family.

For a comfortable bootie that you can dress up or down, try the Broadway 1 Driver Bootie by Marc Joseph New York (Marc Joseph, call for pricing). With easy style and fashion-forward colors, you can wear them with slacks at the office or jeans on the weekend.

Yes, black and brown boots can be paired with just about everything, but colorful boots are a favorite this fall! Wine, forest green and bright blue are just a few of the most popular shades, so go ahead and let yourself fall in love with a boot that breaks away from the norm. One pair we’re loving? The bold, blue hue of the CAT Shontelle Sandy Lane Boot (CAT Footwear, $315). It may seem a little over-the-top, but with a pair of tights and a little black dress, you’ll be right on trend.

If you’re not quite ready for a boot that bold, there’s one other colorful boot that every woman should own… a rain boot! Fall is known for bursts of wet, wintry weather, so it’s always a good idea to have a pair on hand. The new Ahnu Laguna in Winetasting is the perfect way to perk up a wet day, offering waterproof protection in a package that looks fashionable in any wardrobe (Ahnu, $160).