I'm a Fashion Expert–These Are the Fall Boot Trends Everyone Will Want to Wear

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As someone who works in fashion, I pay especially close attention to footwear on the runways—and this year's fall and winter shows had plenty to say about boots .Second-skin silhouettes, comfy heels , and ultra-rich finishes dominated the runways, while sock boots entered their comeback era.

Chanel and Calvin Klein traded 2016's sky-high stilettos for micro kitten heels and extra-tall over-the-knee boots (OTKs). Gucci brought in crocodile embossing, while other houses played with oversized buckles on classic leather. Dior softened things up with suede, and while everyone was talking about the pared-back Western boots at Chloé, I was pleasantly surprised to see the slouch boot making a comeback, too.

What makes the five boot trends below truly special: the silhouettes feel familiar, but the colors and textures are fashion-forward enough to walk you straight into next season.

Sock boot

Defined by a pull-on design and stocking-like silhouette, sock boots swing in the opposite direction of chunkier styles for the sleekest fit possible. Look for stretch leather or flexible knit, both of which feel more like a second skin than fussy footwear. When you have a gazillion layers on, that glove-like fit — be it thigh-high or right at your ankles—definitely comes in handy.

Mtzyoa Over Knee Boot

CUSHIONAIRE Rialto Knee-High Stretch Boot

Quince Italian Leather Stretch Sock Bootie

Madewell The Paisley Flat Ankle Boot

Slouch boot

Slouch (or scrunch) boots naturally gather around the ankle. They're known for their soft, suede texture and laid-back, borrowed-from-the-'70s vibe. Mid-calf is the most universally flattering height, though modern knee-high styles give you a little extra coverage over skinny jeans when temps drop. Bonus: the wide shaft makes them super easy to tuck in bootcut denim or trousers for added style points.

Shoe'N Tale Knee High Boot

Modatope Knee High Fold Over Boot

Steve Madden Lennox Pointed Toe Bootie

Free People Sway Low Slouch Boot 2.0

Buckle boot

Traditionally styled in leather and lug soles for maximum edge, buckle boots are showing their softer side. Think gold hardware on a heeled suede silhouette or even a classic rain boot, balancing hard and delicate textures. Don't worry, though: your favorite moto boots are still rocking out, now with heavy-duty straps and triple the buckles.

Style & Co Macy's Women's Belt Almond Toe Bootie

Calvin Klein Jasen Buckle Strap Block Heel Bootie

Barbour Hepburn Ankle Wellington Boot

Steve Madden Rocky Knee High Boot

Steve Madden Everest Harness Boot

Micro kitten heel boot

If comfort tops your list, barely-there kitten heels are the microtrend to get behind. Like her older (and slightly taller) sister, the ultra low kitten heel brings a little lift and a lot of polish to everyday outfits. This season, you can take your pick from curved, coned, and traditional heel shapes.

CUSHIONAIRE Barbi Kitten Heel Boot

Quince Italian Leather Kitten Heel Ankle Boot

Madewell The Ciel Slim Ankle Boot

Silent D Heidi Scrunch Boots

Reptilian boot

Step aside, snakeskin. Crocodile is coming for your turf. The best pairs right now come in high-gloss hues like deep brown and cherry red. Even embossed suede is getting in on the action! And for anyone wondering: yes, this animal print still counts as a neutral. Go head-to-toe or make it a single, hot statement on date night.

Aachcol Pointed Toe Low Kitten Heel Ankle Boot

Sam Edelman Sylvia Knee High Boo

Sam Edelman Pammy Bootie

Dolce Vita Roxla Knee High Boot

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