Bootstraps.

Boots are a key part of my fall wardrobe. Slipping into a pair of boots feels like fall to me and helps prep me for the falling temperatures and the chill in the air.

You have a lot of boot options this fall– everything from a motorcycle ankle boot to a riding boot is on trend right now. A few choices:

1. Sam Edelman “Naharra” boot ($225)
2. Matisse “Williamsburg” boot ($220)
3. Burberry Shearing Aviator boot ($1,095)
4. Boutique 9 “Cathy” boot ($160)
5. Trouve “Britt” bootie ($140)
6. Apepazza “Liverpool” bootie ($200)
7. Franco Sarto “Lesson” boot ($130)

Okay, are you dying? Because I’m hyperventilating a little over this collage. So amazing; I want them all.

Everyone needs a good pair of black knee-high, high-heeled boots (7). They’re timeless, sexy and can be matched with almost every outfit imaginable. I love the way they dress up a pair of skinnies and a fitted tee, or the edge they add when worn with a little wrap dress and tights.

The riding boot is a super chic way to add interest to an outfit. The staple is basic black (with super shiny leather), but this season the scope has widened a bit to include brown. These gorgeous two-tone brown versions from Matisse (2) are stunning. I love the ombre leather; this boot would work with everything, even black. (Think: black fitted sweaterdress + black tights + these boots.)

Another option for the riding boot is to go a little more rugged, a little less equestrian. These Jessica Simpson boots (1) are still chic, but add an almost-Western edge with the detail at the front of the ankle and the boot straps.

On the short side of things, a flat motorcycle boot (4) is a great addition to your shoe arsenal. Throw them on with leggings to skinnies for weekend errands. They toughen things up, lending a badass element to your outfit.

Have you heard about the military trend? (Sarcasm; of course you have. As I type this, I have Essie’s olive green Sew Psyched on.) Keep marching through with these great buckled shearling boots from Burberry (3) or these fabulous Apepazza camel lace-ups (6). I would pair the Apepazza’s with leggings and an oversized chunky knit sweater? Ooooh. Cozy!

Finally, get a little prim and proper with these Victorian-style booties from Trouve (5). The rounded toe and slim heel scream 1904, but the zipper detail balances things out for 2010.

What about you? Does your wardrobe become boot-heavy when fall rolls around?