From casual to dressy, boots are the hottest trend in footwear this fall, says Lisa Rogers. And they can be worn with virtually everything in your wardrobe. Here are her tips for picking the right pair.

HIGH BOOTS

• Riding boots and over-the-knee boots are very big this fall. And there are several finishes, textures and colours available—so you can pick the pair which suits your style, your age and your needs.
• Faux snakeskin, suede, sequins, and equestrian details are all stylish. And for added warmth, shearling lining is pretty hot too.
• If you have a wider calf, look for styles that are slouchier and roomier. Also, look for boots with side zippers or adjustable buckles.

How to wear:

• Wear high boots with leggings, skinny jeans or slim pants to create a long lean leg. (Remember to put on the type of bottoms you can tuck into your boots so that you can make sure they’ll fit!)
• Also try wearing them with tights and a shorter skirt, knit dress or long tunic.
• Proportionately, you want to ensure that over-the-knee boots fit only 2-3 inches over your knee. Otherwise, the pair won’t be as flattering.  

BOOTIES:

• Ankle booties—whether casual or dressy—are great transitional shoes.
• An open-toe pair with buckles has a military vibe, and is very fashion forward. Try them with a seamless tight or a shorter rolled up pant if they come up over the ankle.
• On that note, tread lightly with booties that cover the ankle because they tend to make your legs look shorter. To minimize the effect, wear them with a pair of tights or leggings in the same tone.

How to wear:

• Try your booties on with dress pants, boyfriend jeans or skinny cords.

HEELED BOOTS:

• Look for styles with platforms which add height and may minimize discomfort. Lug soles are also really in right now.

MID-CALF BOOTS

• Mid-calf boots are just fabulous for fall.
• They are great when worn with this season’s fuller skirts and ladylike retro styles. For instance, a ladylike pair with ruffle detail, a pointy toe and kitten heels fits perfectly with the feminine trend we’re seeing a lot of this season.
• And slouchier pairs are great for casual wear. You can wear them with chunky knit socks layered over your skinny jeans or with a skirt.

How to wear:

• Try to ensure that your tights are in the same tone as the boots so that you get that uniform look. The tights can still be patterned or have texture. You just want to avoid cutting off your calf.

SOCKS/TIGHTS: