Fall's footwear is rugged - but luxe
If you’re looking to turn heads (and can’t get a hold of Alexander McQueen’s armadillo heels—those hoof-like monster booties Lady Gaga wore in her “Bad Romance” video), then try the Botkier VAL wedge, $395, available at Botkier, Manhattan; and botkier.com. Credit: Handout
The funky, chunky footwear you're seeing around, sort of hiking-bootish or construction-workery, with grommets, lug soles and industrial laces, is not - repeat not - meant for rugged activity. It's too fab for that.
Fall's hot footwear trend is rugged chic, with labels offering utilitarian boots at every price level - Gap, Nine West, Guess, Steve Madden, Coach, Dolce & Gabbana, Michael Kors, Polo Ralph Lauren. The list goes on . . . and on.
Tommy Hilfiger's over-the-knee, dominatrix (but in a good way) duck boots are so popular they sold out on his website (there's now a waiting list). Even Tory Burch, known for those sleek, girlie ballet flats, has nearly a dozen rough-and-ready versions. "I love the unexpected mix of utilitarian edge with glamour, like a rugged hiking boot updated with a heel and vibrant laces," Burch says.
Which brings us to the big question - how do you wear them?
You've got three basic choices, with one thing in common: the narrow, tapered leg.
Whether you're bare legged (like Gwyneth Paltrow, spotted wearing a Burch bootee with shorts) or in leggings or skinny jeans, the look is lean. No wide pants and long full skirts, or you'll look like something out of "Little House on the Prairie." And not in a good way.
