Soft, slouchy and sexy – that’s the newest boots for fall. This season also sees the return of over-the knee cuff boot, tough biker boots and leather riding boots. Team then with tunics and jeans, or floral dresses and skirts. The ubiquitous shoe-boot enjoys yet another season of popularity, with sleek styles and chunky hardware.
The much touted gladiator sandal seeks a tough makeover for fall with wide straps and high-heels. However, there is also a move towards an altogether more practical heel height, heralded by Marc Jacobs, when it comes to bringing up back down to earth.
This also includes a reemergence of loafers —love them or loathe them, they are back with a vengeance, as are banded ballerina flats.
Fall winter is also about patent and leather riding boots and fashioned-up rubber Wellington boots (a British expression dating back to the time of Duke of Wellington). The perfect accompaniment for the season’s passion for plaid. According to Net-A-Porter's "Newsflash" in their 30 July online magazine, "every girl needs a pair of flat knee-high boots this season."
Wrap around styles are also emerging, in keeping with the slouchy trend. Statement shoes with studs and spikes are ready to give you a Rock ‘n Roll modern makeover, with studs and spikes.
If you are look for wacky and wild then Dutch designer duo, Viktor and Rolf’s gimmicky space-aged boots are hard to beat - but be warned, these are likely to get you some very strange stares in the street.
Your Fall Shoe Wardrobe
When it comes to building your fall shoe wardrobe, then consider a pair of sky-scraper high, multi-strap stilettos, some knee-high boots, and a pair of wintered-up gladiators, or some with spiky or studded Rock 'n Roll chic hardware. Don't forget some peep-toe shoe-boots, another cool item for fall. For comfort look at this season’s smattering of loafers; sometimes boring by comparison, but always comfortable.
Fall Footwear Must-haves
If you are a follower of high-fashion footwear then here are some of the must-haves for Fall 2008
- Marc Jacobs ruffled slouchy suede boot swith ring heel – these boots are set to be big!
- Chloé crocodile wrapped purple pump – just for the sheer shock value, or their tamer suede wedge heel wrap-around,
- Miu Miu strappy suede bootie has to be one of the most popular gladiators of the season. With their 3 tones of gray these ankle-boots will glamour-up puffy Parka jackets and this season's sexy sportswear.
- Marc Jacobs’ patent loafer with square toe will take you from desk to bar with comfort.
- Balenciaga had it almost their own way with their hot tribal gladiators this summer but their knee-high slouchy winter-white rubber boots may prove to be a winner for fall.
- For biker boots think Miu Miu’s buckled versions which will never go out of style or for more traditional country girl riding boots there are the flat-heeled Marc by Marc Jacobs or Chloé's equestrian flat boots.
- For tunics and mini dresses then you can’t go wrong with Jimmy Choo’s over-the-knee slouchy Hampton boot (£795 Net-A-Porter). These are super sleek and classy.
- Fun and funky rubber boots are so on-trend this fall. Try an iconic Pucci print or a pair of country girl-look Burberry Studded wellingtons. For animal lover's there's Juicy Couture's Scottie dog tartan rubber boots. All 3 styles can be found at Net-A-Porter.
- When it comes to peep-toe shoe boots that get you noticed, then there are non better than Jimmy Choo's Glint suede boots with ladylike metallic trim; idealy for glaming-up your jeans.
Gill Hart - Gill Hart is a fashion and image professional who specializes in women's fashion over 50.
