For as long as I can remember, I’ve been searching for the perfect fall bootie. From my college days in the city and walking 20 blocks to and from a part-time job, to running errands during internships, to my current job, which has me trekking to showrooms and events all over New York, a “perfect” pair is crucial. But I suffer from the classic “Champagne taste with a beer budget” problem — I know I can go into any luxury boutique and walk out with a pair that would make my feet happy, but I also know my wallet won’t agree with the choice. This fall, however, I’ve been keeping my eyes peeled for that special pair of boots — and hooray! This is finally the year. My search is complete — and it’s only October!
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1. GOOD AS GOLD
Evening booties are rare — and affordable ones are even rarer. So when I saw this pair, I had to try them on. I dig the slim fit, short heel and embellished gold toe. I definitely want them, but the regal details mean they work best only in the evening — and the tiny heel might be too hard to walk in.
“Percy” suede and metal booties, $295 at VC Signature, 667 Madison Ave.
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2. CLOG CONFIDENTIAL
Every winter I see stylish girls in Brooklyn sporting clog booties on snowy days. These are cool and comfortable, but I’m still not convinced clogs are right for me — it’s a little too “hippie” for my taste.
“Tecla” suede clog booties, $445 at coclico .com
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3. WEDGE-OUT
This lace-up wedge has a throwback feel reminiscent of one of my favorite styles — the classic desert boot. I can picture myself pairing them with a pair of boyfriend jeans and comfy sweater — but I can’t see myself walking around all day in the sky-high heels.
Lucky Brand suede booties, $109 at piperlime.com
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4. STRAP HAPPY
Matt Bernson is known for everyday booties, and he’s got celeb clients to prove it — Olivia Palermo and Ashley Greene are fans. I can’t imagine looking any cooler running errands than I would wearing these. But it’s hard to justify buying a color other than black.
“Coup D’Etat” suede and leather booties, $231 at Matt Bernson, 20 Harrison St.
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5. BURGUNDY BABE
I’ve seen versions of this boot out and about on the streets of New York, and it makes me turn my head every time: The perfectly pointy toe and rich suede make it a lush showstopper. Too bad I need a bigger bank account to swing these!
Tabitha Simmons wedge, $1,295 at net-a-porter.com
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6. WINNER! DAY BOOTIE
I always knew that Rebecca Minkoff designs great bags, but her shoe collections get better each season — and these booties are the perfect example. I love how low the boot hits at the ankle, which allows me to wear these with my go-to skinny jeans and dresses yearround. While these are technically flat, a tiny heel makes them comfortable to walk in — and gives my legs a lift.
Rebecca Minkoff boots, $295 at Bloomingdale’s, 1000 Third Ave.
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7. WINNER! NIGHT BOOTIE
Sigerson Morrison shoes are a staple on my “Must Have” list, and this season the collection is full of killer booties, including this style. It’s got everything I’m looking for: sleek black and dressy gold, and the perfect three-inch heel height.
Sigerson Morrison leather and suede boots, $495 at couture.zappos. com.