The trees may not have shed their leaves, but over the past days there has been a distinct chill to the air, signalling that summer is well and truly over. There can be no more running about in flip flops or ballet pumps because the Irish winter requires something altogether sturdier - and this season there is more choice than ever. Boots are a must this winter, from thigh high waders, to outrageous Yeti styles - whatever you're wearing, if it needs attitude it needs boots. With so much variety to choose from, it's nearly time to make a list of what you need before leaving the house.
Flat boots are coming back, worn with anything from weekend jeans to pencil-thin skirts. But if you want to add some height or glamour to an outfit, dangerously high stilettos or wedges are your best bet. The new look for this winter is Yeti boots but don’t let that deter you. The options for fur, faux-fur and shearling-lined boots go well beyond yeti-like furry feet and into a number of sexier looks. Think bed-haired bohemians in fur pelted shoes through to classic ski-bunny boots for a cute alternative to the Ugg.
Thigh length or slim-line boots create a completely different silhouette but that's the beauty of this winter's collections -- and of course it's about making sure they're comfortable and suitable. Suitable doesn't necessarily mean sensible, but it means that they suit the leg or the look you're trying to create. When you wear boots you've got to think about proportions. Generally, the flatter your heel, the longer the skirt. However, a petite woman needs at least a small heel to carry off the look, or she'll be overwhelmed with those big boots and long skirt.
Boots can also pose a problem for larger-sized women who usually have bigger-than-average calves, so, if you want to wear boots, try a stretch-inset style that accommodates your larger calf, and then cover the top of the boot with a longer skirt. Or opt for an ankle-length boot with pants to give the appearance of a taller boot. The fact that they're sticking around means that boots can now be seen as a blue-chip buy - as safe an investment as a classic winter coat.
That is, as long as you follow these few simple, but golden rules.
SHOE-BOOT CHIC
Half shoe, half boot, the 'shoot' has survived another season to become one of this winter's most fashionable must-haves for your feet. To qualify as a shoe-boot, it must end well below ankle-sock level so it traces a line under the anklebone.
Avoid the rub factor by ensuring you get a good fit. Stay bang on shoot trend for this winter with shiny patent or lace-up styles. And always follow the golden rule of fashion and try the boots on before buying. Just because Pixi Lott looks cool in them doesn't mean we all do.
Try: Purple suede shoe boots from Marks and Spencer (€75)
ANKLE CLINCHERS
There's plenty of variation when it comes to ankle boots. This winter's love or hate trend is the peep toe boot, as sported by Cheryl Cole. As with all high fashion, ankle boots aren't the right choice for everyone, and shouldn't be worn with just anything.
The very high-heeled versions look better with shorter hemlines and slimmer legs. The more chunky-heeled styles work well with jeans. And three-quarter length boots should be kept for outfits with tights - and never with your trousers tucked in. Remember, Bananarama aren't in the music or style charts any more.
If you have shorter legs, look for lower-cut shapes that won't shrink your shins too much. Another of the season's big looks is the pencil skirt and it can work well with ankle boots. Tights are an absolute must though. - just be careful what you pick. Lacy tights smack of those awful American magazines of the mid-Eighties. They don't do anyone any favours unless you're Giselle [the supermodel with the frighteningly perfect bod]. And what's the point of drawing attention to your legs if they're not great legs?" Opaques and neutrals it is, then.
Try: Dorothy Perkins, lace up studded ankle boots €75.
CALF CLASSICS
If you're unfazed by fashion fads and want something more classic, there are still plenty of plainer knee-length boots around that you'll wear again and again.
Even with one of the world's most enviable wardrobes, Kate Moss can't get enough of her old faithful scuffed black leather boots. Fans of comfortable flats will be pleased to know that riding boot styles are huge this season - keep them chic and simple in sturdy leather for added longevity.
In keeping with the military trend on the catwalks you'll also find soldier-style heeled boots with brocade or button detailing.
Try: Tan riding boot €99 at Wallis.
OVER-KNEE CHIC
Once the preserve of pantomime principal boys and on-screen prostitutes, top designers have decided that A/W 2010 is the time to reclaim the much maligned footwear for the world of high fashion. And with everyone from Gucci to Schuh doing a version, they have the potential to be this season's hippest trend. But can the thigh highs ever really shake off their Pretty Woman image?
Super-long boots will help take lightweight dresses effortlessly into winter mode but how you wear them is all-important. Very long boots, to or above the knee, don't suit short people. Mid-calf boots are much more flattering for anyone who doesn't possess long legs. My top tip is to wear a black, mid-calf boot with opaques; hey presto, longer legs can be yours. If you can't resist high boots, or indeed thigh boots, keep your hemlines low, or risk long, yearning glances from unfavourable quarters. Go for a mid to low heel - they're chic and modern, and it helps that they won't snap if you get caught between paving stones, or give your calves a lethal workout.
Try: Over the knee boots: Studded over the knee flat boot €34, Matalan.
