Boots of countless shapes and sizes were all over fall runways from DKNY to Gucci this year, and for good reason; come autumn, there’s no better sound than fallen leaves crunching beneath your best pair of boots. Though it’s always important to protect our tootsies against the elements with practical shoes, a little fashion never hurt anyone. This year, it’s important to invest in boots that can incorporate new fall trends while still staying timeless. With so many new and exciting fall trends, you’re sure to find one that inspires you.
Tough As Nails
Saint Laurent Fall 2013 Runway
H&M Fall 2013 Runway
Grungy punk looks are back for fall, footwear included. Gracing the collections of Saint Laurent and H&M among many others, fierce punk boots took fall runways by storm. There are tons of new styles boasting studs, spikes, buckles and more, so invest in a shoe that will really edge up your closet.
BDG Penzy Boot in Olive, $69, Urban Outfitters
These canvas lace-up boots are sturdy and comfortable and are sure to edge up your wardrobe. Don’t worry – they’ll still match most everything!
Pink & Pepper Brooklyn Boot in Taupe, $49, Zappos
With gold buckle straps and distressed brown leather, these booties are both cute and tough.
AEO Studded Bootie, $69.95, American Eagle
Polished yet fun booties are a must-have for fall. Inexpensive and cute, these studded shoes scream rocker and boast a 3-inch heel to give you some height.
AEO Studded Moto Boot, $52.49, American Eagle
These motorcycle boots will go with everything, from your most darling dresses to your fiercest pants. Rock these silver square-studded boots everywhere this fall.
Pyramid Stud Motorcycle Bootie, $42.50, Charlotte Russe
These pyramid-studded motorcycle boots are a more subtle way to embrace the punk trend for fall. Make your legs look longer by pairing them with dark wash skinny jeans.
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Borrowed From the Boys
Tommy Hilfiger Fall 2013 Runway
Stella McCartney Fall 2013 Runway
Ralph Lauren Fall 2013 Runway
We’ve all heard of boyfriend jeans, but what about boyfriend shoes? This fall, Ralph Lauren and Tommy Hilfiger, among many other classic designers, have been stealing inspiration from menswear to give us flatter, more comfortable shoes that don’t sacrifice style or elegance.
Model Lace Up Vintage Boots in Green, $80, Topshop
Aren’t these green leather booties the coolest? With the perfect little pop of color for day-to-day wear, these shoes are comfortable and super chic.
Ruby-5 Buckle Almond Toe Bootie in Brown, $44.20, Urbanog.com
Okay, so maybe your boyfriend would never wear these shoes (it’s called “inspired” for a reason!), but their ease emulates that of your man’s best business shoes.
Wynne-01 Sweater Collar Lace Up Ankle Bootie, $35.40, Urbanog.com
Make your boyfriend swoon with shoe envy over these amazing fall booties. They’re warm and adorable, and they totally one-up his ratty, old boots.
Outdoor Odyssey Boot, $84.99, ModCloth
These military-inspired shoes are the ultimate in “borrowed from the boys,” but are adorable nonetheless! Try them with skinny jeans or a floral dress.
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Pretty Prints
DKNY Fall 2013 Runway
Gucci Fall 2013 Runway
Though traditional boots will always stay in style, be sure to make some space in your closet for the newest footwear trend: delightful prints, from floral to leopard. A fun printed boot is a great way to liven up a muted fall outfit.
Dr. Martens Hackney Boot, $64.95, Nordstrom
These cute blue floral shoes are lightweight and feminine while still being comfortable. Add them to a mostly gray or black outfit for a fun pop of color.
Steve Madden Trustt Boot, $99.95, Nordstrom
We’re obsessed with these shoes. They’re the perfect black lace-up pair with a touch of pink floral to balance them out.
AEO Contrast Strap Bootie, $69.95, American Eagle
There’s nothing like a little leopard to spice up your wardrobe. The color of these booties is subtle, but the print is an eye-catcher.
Again and a Grain Bootie, $49.99, ModCloth
These black-and-white, wood grain-inspired booties are artistic and chic! Try them with a maxi skirt or a simple LBD.
Dare Animal Print Wellies, $45, Topshop
Never forget the importance of a stylish pair of rain boots! These shoes are durable and on-trend with a fun leopard print.
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Over the Moon for Over-the-Knee Boots
Emilio Pucci Fall 2013 Runway
Christian Siriano Fall 2013 Runway
Phillip Lim Fall 2013 Runway
This year, over-the-knee boots stomped all over fall runways, including Emilio Pucci, Christian Siriano and Phillip Lim. Pick up a wickedly tall pair of over-the-knee boots and you’re guaranteed to turn heads for all the right reasons.
Colin Stuart Over-the-Knee Riding Boot, $118, Victoria’s Secret
These chic, equestrian-inspired over-the-knee riding boots are very on-trend, with the perfect silhouette and most charming details. Make your laid-back outfits instantly polished with these essential boots.
Gwyn Over-the-Knee Boot, $130, Victoria’s Secret
These ultra-luxurious boots are incredibly chic, with an asymmetrical gold zipper and sleek leather. Pair with a mini dress or your favorite skinny jeans for a look that’s beyond gorgeous.
Pleaser Vanity 2013 Boot, $94.95, Shoebuy.com
This pair of over-the-knee boots is very classic, featuring a fold-over cuff and a half zipper that makes them easy to take on and off. Featuring a cute stiletto heel, these boots will carry you through the fall in style.
Chinese Laundry ‘South Bay’ Over-the-Knee Boot in Black, $99.95, Nordstrom
These intense over-the-knee boots will really pump up the volume of any outfit. Plus, they’re flexible and comfy and can be worn cuffed or un-cuffed. Ditch your going-out heels and opt for these hot boots instead!
Buckled Thigh-High Flat Boot, $45.50, Charlotte Russe
Featuring a toned-down color and a low heel, these brown over-the-knee boots are very wearable. They have simple buckle accents and a cushioned insole – great for someone who’s never tried super-tall boots before!
While shopping, be sure to pick colors and cuts that will work with your wardrobe and don’t essentially duplicate shoes you already own – it’s all about variation. Start readying your fall boot collection so you can be ready to whip out your kicks when the first leaves fall!