The leaves are turning, the temperature is dropping, and as much as we hate to admit it… our flip-flops just aren’t going to cut it for that trek across campus anymore. What’s worse is that a cute new pair of boots for fall will definitely not be hanging underneath a 2 for $5 sign at Old Navy. Don’t fret Collegiettes, I’ve created a list of the five cutest new designer trends for this fall, and at a price that won’t require you to take out a second student loan!
Fringe Boot
A fun twist on the typical suede boot, fringe is a perfect way to pull together your leggings and chunky sweater lazy autumn day outfit. Minnetonkas are the Louboutins of fringe boots and mocassins, but their calf-high boots get a little pricey at $89.95 a pop. These Steve Madden boots are a little more reasonably priced, and the angled fringe gives them an edgy touch. I, however, am definitely willing to pay the price when it comes to these adorable plum two-tier fringe booties by Minnetonka. Either way, nothing looks better crunching across fall leaves than these fall-esque boots!
Steve Madden, $44.95
Minnetonka, $57.95
Classic Tall Leather Boot
If you’re searching for a classic look to rock to class or a meeting this semester, then tall, chic leather boots are a must for your fall wardrobe. Perfect for when the weather gets a little on the chilly side, these two-tone riding boots and slouchy brown leather boots will add a little class to any outfit. I’d wear them over tights to complement a casual dress on a warmer day or your favorite dark wash skinny jeans and a cardigan on a cooler one.
Qupid (Available at PacSun), $59.95
Mossimo Supply Co., $39.99
Combat Boots
Combat boots are a really popular trend this year, and thank the fashion gods for that because they’re totally comfortable for those days when we need to hike from Southwest to Northeast and back! They give a punk-rock look to leather jackets, another fall favorite, and can even dress you up a bit on those days when you can only manage to throw on jeans and a hoodie. Madden Girl makes a great combat boot in many colors, including the hunter green seen below. If you’re feeling bold, try a printed pair to liven up solid colors, like this cute floral pair sold at Charlotte Russe!
Madden Girl, $59.95
Charlotte Russe, $42.50
Studded Boots
Studs are truly everywhere this fall – on sweaters, on bags, on jeans, on scarves… and now on boots! This fall we’re seeing studs in all sorts of patterns, shapes, colors, etc. And although we’re always told guys don’t care about shoes, they don’t really have a choice but to catch that sparkle in your step in the corner of their eye (preferably deep, dreamy blue eyes, if it’s not too much to ask).
Nasty Gal, $64.00
UrbanOG, $43.20
Rain boots
Last but certainly not least, we all know how incredibly imperative it is to have a good pair of rain boots here in Amherst! And even though rain boots aren’t always the cutest shoes, they’ve definitely come a long way from that hideous bright yellow they were so well known for. Keep your toes dry and splash through puddles in style with these pretty peacock boots from DSW or playful cheetah boots from Target, both at a great price!
Chooka (Available at DSW), $39.94
Target, $29.99
There you have it collegiettes, the five hot trends that should be in your boot-ique this fall and a few examples of some pairs that won’t break the bank! Notice that UGGs did not make the top five. They’re simply too warm and cozy for me to tell you to rule them out completely, but girls, let’s work on improving this bad rep we’ve gotten from getting lazy and making UGGs a daily thing. Now that you see how cute and affordable these other styles of boots are, you have no excuse!
Happy autumn, happy shopping, and happy walking!