Shoes and Swatches

   Deciding on an outfit is a big enough challenge, but even more difficult is deciding what will go on your feet.  An outfit could be shattered to the winds if the shoe choice is poorly made.  This fall there are some truly amazing new trends that have versatility to your entire wardrobe.  So, starting at the top and working our way down, let's review your options! 

  The high rise option, an over-the-knee boot, may be the priciest of all.  However, after saving for a couple of pay periods, you won't even be phased by spending a hundred or two on a pair of hooker heels.  Wander onto Piperlime, and if you have the loot splurge on a pair of L.A.M.B.  Otherwise Chinese Laundry makes really cute over-the-knee boots that are sure to look sexy and edgy with a sweater dress!  Dress down the high risers with leggings and a cardigan.

   Moving below the knee, I'd like to introduce you to the riding boot.  This equestrian look is chic, rather than hick!  One issue with obtaining a pair is it may cost you, only because actual leather isn't cheap and it'll take some cash to avoid looking cheap.  I'm not recommending purchasing a pair of Frye's, though this is the brand I'm dying to get get into.  Instead of Frye, try the other guys!  Madden by Steve Madden and Wanted are both brands that look pricier than they actually are.  Both of which are available at Endless Shoes.  Riding boots are adorable with floral dresses or over a pair of skinny's with a over-sized chunky sweater.  Perfect for picking out that pumpkin come late Autumn.     
  
  

   Taking it down a notch and we are down to boots that come mid-calf.  Imagine a combat boot, usually lace-up, and possibly the least favorite of all boots.  Many celebrities are wearing rugged styles that fold down and slip over skinny jeans.  I have seen them worn with dresses, which is a big no-no.  It's better to keep them casual and avoid putting too much thought into the outfit worn with these.  Consider boyfriend or cropped cardigans.  If the rugged look appeals to you, remember you want to look put together and not sloppy.  Mary-Kate Olson may be able to wear combat boots with knee-length extra-large sweaters and baggy jeans, just do not make the same mistakes she does.  If you are looking for a deal on these boots, Madden by Steve Madden makes a pair that are $99, even cheaper at American Eagle there is a pair for $69.  Both of which are near indecipherable. 
  

  As we scoot down the leg and approach the ankle, the styles begin to steer away from a boot.  Ankle-high styles are varied and vast.  There are booties, shorties, heeled "dress-me-up" styles, and flat cowboy looks.  Personally I prefer the dressier booties with not such a rounded toe.  If you decide on a pair with a kitten heel and a longer sharper toe your foot will not look stumpy.  Also, styles such as these can be worn with jeans or skirts.  These are not a shoe that you wear every day of the week, or even one day every week, so you may even decide this is not a style for you this Fall.  However, if you have the spare change, invest in a pair!  Explore your options at Aldo.

   This just in, oxfords are irresistible.  Just the other day I saw a woman in American Eagle wearing a pair with cuffed jeans and a blazer.  It was the most admirable combination, that was not only classy but comfortable.  She purchased hers from Payless but my favorite pair is designed by Jessica Simpson.  They are sparkly and gray, they succeed in taking me back to elementary school when I wore the classic black and white style with a dress on the first day of school.  Sam Edelman also makes several designs that are splurge-worthy.  When trying the oxford be sure that the toe is not too long.  There are some styles that make the foot look like a size 13, which is not okay!  Also take the time to look at the designer Nicole at Endless Shoes.
  
   Last of all the clog has been seen smeared across every fashion magazine this season.  At first I was hesitant about this fad, but it has really grown on me.  Though I'm not a fan of heeled shoes, I love the clog with a little height.  Yes, clogs seem a little over priced, I mean, it's a shoe missing a heel backing!  Before you knock it, browse the parade of clogs designed by Vince Camuto, fall in love with a pair and spend the $110.  There are a couple other brands that are equally trendy, yet lower in price.  Rocketdog and Lucky have extremely cute clogs available at DSW and Endless Shoes.  Just remember, none of the knit styles and especially not Birkenstock types.  Take a chance with the heel!  I promise you'll love the convenience of slipping on a pair while running out the door.  Becoming a fashionista has never been easier! 

  After all that shoe talk, it may be helpful to get an idea for this Fall's color palette while shopping for pieces to pair with the fits on your feet.  When in doubt look up, unless you decide to shop later in the season, look down at the ground.  I have been drawing inspiration from the leaves.  My favorite color choices include camel (especially paired with deep gray), tree trunk brown (even furry pieces), dusty lavender (search for velvet in this color and let me know what you find, I'm obsessed), crimson red, burnt orange, and the carry-over from the summer-military olive hues!  My advice, color coordinate the closet, see which hue is missing and head out to the mall...an outdoor mall if possible.  It will be easier to draw inspiration from the outdoors in between stores.  Jump into Fall, get shopping!    
    

   

   

Class Time

   Basically, Autumn fashion revolves around the blazer.  It's an easy and classy addition to any outfit!  The real chore is finding a personal favorite...in all my searching I discovered a few versatile pieces that are high quality.  Of course I'm partial to ae.com, and the boyfriend blazer they have in stores currently is amazing....it's actually the one I chose to purchase for this season's wardrobe.  It's a longer fit and has preppy detailed cuffs in a satin material.

   The blazer is big this season because it is effortless!  Blazers dress up jeans and look edgy with a pair of knee-high boots.  An under layer can include a lacy blouse such as the one I found on asos.com (a site in which I am newly obsessed) or a plain blouse (or tee) paired with jewelry.  Any look will look classy and put together as long as you decide on a main accessory and a pair of look-at-me boots!

   Accessory options are endless!  However, a few cute ideas I saw while flipping through the September issues include, but are not limited to: feathered 40's style caps, long multi-chained necklaces, thin patent-leather belts (cinching high-waist skinny's and a tucked-in tee), collar-bone grazing necklaces with an abundant amount of pearls and beads, bulky gold menswear watches and eye-catching patterned scarves. Just a reminder to keep it simple and a representation of self! 

   After you've decided on the ankles and up action, choose your shoes wisely!  There are so many new options for this Fall.  Even if they are an in-and-out trend, get a pair of shooties.  No need to wonder what shooties are any longer.  If you've ever been to a civil war reenactment you have an inkling.  Basically, SHOES+BOOTIES=SHOOTIES!  They are casual, cute and classy, oh and best of all, comfy!  They are the four C's that you cannot pass up!  Paired with cuffed jeans or jeggings, they are the hottest things sweeping across from the east coast this season!  Or, if you are too antsy to wear your boots now that the cold air is coming through, they will suffice!  Actually, shooties or boots are perfect with blazers.  You'll look classic and chic!