Lace up Boots Leaving their Footprint on Fall Trends

By Bonny Osterhage

When it comes to boots, I cannot have enough. My closet is filled with knee high, ankle, zippered, pull on and cowboy (I am from Texas after all) boots, that I lovingly unpack at the first sign of a chill in the air.  Just when I thought I had a boot for every outfit, along comes a trend that makes me wish I had held onto the Doc Martens of my youth. Yep, it seems that lace up boots are one of the hottest trends in fall footwear, and (like my Doc Martens), they are being worn with everything from jeans to skirts and leggings. There is no “right” way to do it and there is no “one style fits all” approach. Tall, short and in between, as long as it laces, we love it! These vegan and eco friendly boots have the trend all tied up, and the only footprint they leave is a green one!

An educational note: There is a difference between eco friendly and vegan. Vegan means that absolutely no animal products are used, but the materials are not necessarily sustainable. Call it socially responsible. Eco friendly means the materials used are either recycled, vegetable tanned leathers (as opposed to chemically tanned) or other sustainable textiles.

As you know, our Top 10 stories now call out which finds are “ECOnomical” (good for the Planet and your wallet) and which are worthwhile “Splurges” (in our humble opinion).

Dollhouse Tiger Brown Lace Up Work Boot

Love this rugged, yet sexy, mid calf vegan boot. From the pointed toe to the wrap around buckles and the ribbed sock that peeks above the top, this boot has great detailing. A nice surprise is the faux leopard fur lining to keep your tootsies toasty when it gets cold. A steal at $57 at www.lulus.com.

 

 

Hearts of Darkness Charisma Laceup Tall Boot

 

From this affordable collection by Cri de Coeur comes this vegan, faux leather, knee high lace up that will definitely be your fall wardrobe “go to” boot.  Think about it — great over leggings, skinny jeans and with skirts and dresses for a cool casual look. And, the one inch heels make them so comfy. Also has an inside zipper so you don’t have to lace them up every time.  $150 at www.cridecoeur.com.

 

Madden Girl Zummah

This traditional old school lace up boot is destined to become one of your favorite fall additions. The style is in the simplicity that is just edgy enough to up your hip factor considerably. $69 at www.mooshoes.com.

 

 

Member Black Faux Leather Combat Boots

 

Combat boots are back and better than ever! The perfect accessory to the season’s military trend, this vegan version looks tough on the outside, but features a girlie floral lining. Very cool! $38 at www.alternative outfitters.com.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Beyond Skin Hattie Bootie

 

Kind of a cross between a spectator and a bootie, this striking vegan lace up personifies the menswear look that is one of the major trends this season. Great with slacks, a suit or pencil skirt, it is hand made from faux patent and cotton. Comes in solid black and a turquoise check, but we thought this black and white Prince of Wales check was smart and sophisticated.  £148.00 (approx. $233) at www.beyondskin.com.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cri De Coeur Sara Lace up Wedge Mid-Boot

 

So many trends, such little time. Thankfully, this vegan style incorporates several trends in one, allowing us to kill several looks with one fashionable boot. Fun and futuristic, the cool mid-length, wedge heel, and neutral shade are all major blips on the fashion radar this season. Why divide and conquer when you can have it all? $390 at www.cridecoeur.com.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mink Shoes Black Panther

 

Like the cat for which it is named, the Black Panther is sleek and sexy. The vintage black fabric has a touch of sparkle and is offset by the feminine, organic cotton ribbon laces. A comfortable low heel makes this knee-high the cat’s meow! Currently available for special order. $395 at www.minkshoes.com. Email info@minkshoes.com to inquire or order.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Naya Oxford Brown Leather Nefertiti

This smart looking ankle boot goes the distance with luxurious veggie tanned leather. Zips up the side, and has a soft, faux shearling liner. The rich chocolate hue compliments the season’s palette, while the side buckle ensures a custom-made fit. This is fall at its finest. $285 with free shipping at www.shoes.com.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Swedish Hasbeens Lace Up High

 

Good things come to those who wait, so jump on the wait list NOW for these awesome black lace ups! While they may look basic, like all shoes from Swedish Hasbeens, it is the wearer that makes them unique. Made from veggie tanned leather, they are funky with a shirt and tights, flirty with a dress and ultra casual with your rolled up cargos. A must have boot that will last a lifetime! $375 at www.junoandjove.com.

Terra Plana Mamie

A vintage look with totally modern appeal, the Mamie ankle boot is right on trend. The soft velour upper creates a sumptuous suede-like appearance. We think it looks adorable peeking out from under the season’s longer, fuller skirts. Available in three fabulous fall shades. $225 at www.terraplana.com.