Dan's Papers - October 10, 2008

As the cool, crisp, fall weather sets in, our need for warmer footwear becomes more and more essential. Wearing boots with skirts, dresses, jeans or tailored pants is part of our everyday wardrobe. There are a variety of fashionable boots this season including ankle, knee high, "booties" (a shoe-like boot) and flat boots (like the very popular Uggs).

Before stepping out into a new pair, decide on three key factors: style, budget and comfort. The distinction between each style is very different. The following are this season's hot picks in the riding boot category: Tory Burch Jackson Leather Riding Boot (priced at $495, made with a stacked rubber sole and leather lining-available at Bloomingdales), Burberry Medallion Riding Boot (grainy black leather priced at $995, available at Nordstrom) and Juicy Couture Riding Boots (black-leather lining and sole-priced at $625, available at Saks Fifth Avenue). Popular bootie picks include: Kate Spade's Suede Slip Bootie On (with laces, priced at $348, available at Saks Fifth Avenue), Marc by Marc Jacobs Round-toe Bootie (with smooth patent leather and padded insole, priced at $495, available at Saks Fifth Avenue).

When it comes to comfort there are a few favorites in the running that include Cole Haan, Aquatalia by Marvin K and Uggs. Australian's sheepskin Ugg (also known as Ug Ugh) has been around for nearly 200 years. The term was deemed as a generic name meaning short and ugly. Who would have thought all these years later this once "ugly" boot would be worn by celebrities and fashion gurus around the globe? This snug, cozy, soft boot is not only fashionable, but also great for the cold weather. A few standout styles include Elsey (priced at $300, available in black, chestnut and espresso suede lace-up with wedge heel), Ultimate Tall Braid (priced at $200, available in chocolate, black and espresso) and Sundance II (priced at $200, available in sand, chestnut and black). Check out uggsaustralia.com for a full catalogue of styles and descriptions. Various styles are also available at department stores and local shoe boutiques on the East End.

Italian made Aquatalia footwear is known for their comfort and trendy styles. Log on to aquatalia.com or check out department stores such as Bloomingdales for full color pictures and styles. Don't miss: Crocco Patent or suede leather heeled boot (priced at $475 and $495, available in black and chianti-tall style with microfiber weatherproof lining), Plushy (weatherproof suede wedge heel, priced at $395, available in black and espresso, with a resistant rubber sole) and finally Aquatalia's stylish Avery (priced at $425, available in black, brown and chianti patent leather-with a quilted back panel and faux fur lining).

Celebrating its 80th Anniversary this year, Cole Haan also offers a plethora of great comfortable trendy boots this season. Check out: the Sierra Air Tall Boot (priced at $495, available in black suede and patent) and Fabrizia Tall Boot (priced at $595, available in brown, with a comfortable rubber sole).

The list of hot boots for this season can go on and on. Get some ideas online and then check out your local shoe boutiques for great options. Pick up a copy of Dan's Insider Guide for a full listing of local boutiques such as Jildor (Southampton), The Shoe Inn (East Hampton and Westhampton) and Simpatico (Sag Harbor) just to name a few). Put your best foot forward and start shopping!