by Sarah Morrison

The cheeky over-the-knee, the go-anywhere Chelsea, the now-notorious sock bootie (tres tres chic): ah, yes, the footwear of fall is a sight to behold.

Ask any fashionista and he or she will tell you, the cool season would be nothing if not for the widely held resolution to put those trusty boots back into regular service once again.

The appeal of a sleek pair of boots is crystal clear: in a perfect world, they’re functional (bring on the chill!), they’re flattering, they’re versatile and not to mention, comfortable. Take, for example, an elongating leather number, say knee-high or just above; it finds its way into the office with a modest low heel, just as often as it does out on the town, perhaps with a slightly higher lift for after-hours fun. Then, there are your foolproof booties; whether teamed with tried-and-true skinnies, wide-legged trousers or an always-appropriate midi skirt, the ease and understatement of the ankle boot simply can’t be beat.

Constructively speaking, boot styles in enduring fabrications like leather, leather-like (be mindful of shine here) and suede, although maintenance-intensive, will outlast and outlive each and every alternative. If you’re like me, an urban dweller caught commuting by foot any day of the week, then you very well know how much our feet are put through the wringer. If there’s anything we should invest in, it should certainly be our shoes—particularly as the mild weather starts to turn and boots are the flavor of choice for braving the elements.

Alas, the most covetable boot designers never fail in reimagining these smart fabrications, season after season, offering fresh takes that still manage to tick all the boxes. Packing comfort, timeless style, quality, and then some, a select few designers, as it would seem, are indeed listening to not just one, but all of our fall boot prayers. What’s more, based off our Instagram feeds, it would also seem our favorite It-girls, influencers, and fashion editors agree: the power these designer boots wield is undeniable. Here, I’ve done the heavy lifting and rounded up 5 current or soon-to-be cult-status boot brands casting a spell over nearly every fashion aficionado around.

1. Loeffler Randall

From conference calls to cocktails in impeccable style—that’s Loeffler Randall for you. A little bit playful, a little bit polished (actually, ever more so), Loeffler Randall is the easy choice for conquering the 9-to-5 and date night all at once. Brimming with modern appeal, and unique for its special detailing (think tassels and metallic accents), the brand is also the picture of understated, standout style. Oh, and did we mention? It doesn’t hurt that the boots are supremely comfortable, too.

2. By Far

Every once in a while, a gem comes along that just can’t be ignored. Ever since its launch in 2016, By Far has worked quickly to seal its place as more than just a brand to watch. It’s directional, it’s meticulously crafted for comfort and style, and it’s pretty much everything we could hope for in a statement shoe brand. Beloved by fashion girls, editors, and all who keep their finger on the pulse, we can’t see this one going anywhere, anytime soon.

3. Stuart Weitzman

The ultimate fixture in the footwear world—bar none. If Stuart Weitzman is the millennial’s sartorial promise land, than its over-the-knee boot is the holy grail. Over the last few years, Stuart Weitzman has seen its popularity surge with the massive success of It-girl-backed (we see you, Kendall!) campaigns as well as countless celebrity endorsements. If not for the current state of my wallet, I’d be picking up a pair of the swoon-worthy style in every color.

4. Rag & Bone

Rag & Bone is truly the gift that keeps on giving. Now considered a veteran in the world of contemporary footwear, the brand is still as committed as ever when it comes to upholding their most everlasting and cherished designs. Its iconic Chelsea boot, for example, with its leather-on-leather construction, is stabilizing, and yet ever-so-chic looking (I mean, just look at it!)—just one testament to the brand’s current standing as a pillar in every stylish woman’s wardrobe.

5. Paige

When you think of contemporary label Paige, footwear might not be the first thing that springs to mind. Trust me on this one, last year’s launch of Paige’s footwear line could very well be the best thing to happen to the brand (and not to mention, it’s loyal customers). Not only are the designs beyond chic, but the comfort is everything to write home about. Paige, you’re the jack of all trades our closet has been waiting for.

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