Few things get me as excited as Fall/Winter boots! There are so many different kinds- from flat to tall, suede, leather, patent, etc, that every season I get tempted to buy a few new pairs to spice up my wardrobe. Plus, living in Toronto means that you could literally wear your boots all year long. I swear, I’ve seen girls wear Uggs in the summer! So, investing in good quality pairs makes sense, because you really get your money’s worth. If you get the right pair of boots, they become the focus of your outfit and make even the simplest outfit (jeans and a tee) look phenomenal. One of La Mimi readers – Kaya, had recently asked me to do a 411 on Boots, so this post is dedicated to her, as well as all the other ladies in need of some boot advice.

Here are some of the basic must have boots for every woman’s wardrobe:

Ankle Bootie

The Ankle Boot was originally intended to be worn only under trousers, however after the 80′s when designers put the bootie on the runway with skirts and dresses, everyone began wearing them with everything but the classic trousers. When sporting them with skirts and skinny jeans it makes us look and feel a little punk and edgy.

Styling Tips

- When wearing with pants keep the colors the same to elongate the leg and make you feel fab.

- Opt for a pair that doesn’t cut off straight at the ankle like a traditional bootie, as it will chop off the leg and make you look stumpy.

- Wear them with Black Opaque Tights for an illusion of longer legs.

Thigh High Boots

Thigh high boots are one of the most popular boot trends for Fall/Winter 2009. It’s a bit overdone already, don’t you think? But generally thigh high boots are a great addition to your boot collection for those adventurous nights where you wanna jazz up your mini dress with a great pair of thigh high boots or on those days where you want to look stylish but don’t have the time – just wear an oversized sweater with black tights and thigh high boots. They will make all the statement you need.

Styling Tips

- Thigh high boots look great over skinny jeans or leggings

- Minimal make up and accessories is a must when wearing your thigh high boots. Let them be the focus of your outfit.

Knee Boots

Out of all the boots  out there – knee boots are probably the most popular and practical. The version that every girl needs comes just below the knee and looks best when worn with skirts that hit just above the knee.

Styling Tip

- Black  and tan colors are the best for boots, because they will go with everything in your wardrobe, so you don’t have to think twice.

Cowboy Boots

There are no rules when wearing cowboy boots. They are just as acceptable with cocktail dresses as they are with jeans and a T-shirt. However, the cocktail dress and the cowboy boot is a bit hard to pull off , so I’d recommend either jeans and a T or a flowy dress and funky jewelry or a peasant skirt and a jean jacket. Be creative!

Styling Tips

- A good pair of cowboy boots is going to be quite an investment, but one that’s definitely worth it. So, spend a little money and I guarantee you not only will they last for years in your wardrobe, but they will also be the most comfortable shoes in your closet.

- Most important, you have to beat them up. The old vintage ones are the best, so the older, the better.

Frye Harness Boots

Unwilling to always be so fragile and feminine? Then Frye Harness Boots are for you. These big, chunky boots exude strength and power which most women crave, at least occasionally.

Styling Tips

- The older and more beat up they are, the better

- Wear them with jeans tucked in or with dresses and Boyfriend Cardigan.

Wellington Boots

Wellie is the most practical option for times of rain and since it rains all the time in Toronto, I believe it’s a MUST to have at least a pair. And not only are they practical, but also kind of cool.

Styling Tip

- When buying or ordering them online, make sure to go a size down from what you usually wear – they run big.

Although I appreciate all kinds of boots,  I usually lean toward ankle booties, as well as knee boots.  How about you? What’s your favorite boot?