It’s almost fall, are you ready for fringe shoes and boots?

I may not be. I think this fringe thing is tricky to pull off — there is plenty of opportunity for mishap, including the very real possibility of resembling Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman. Plus, I keep flashing on a trip I took with my family in 1973, to Estes Park, Colorado. I bought my first pair of moccasins, in one of those fake-old-timey trading posts. And they were the grooviest, you’ve got to believe me on that, I literally wore those shoes OUT. But, it’s now 35 years later, and I’m just not sure I’m ready to look like my 6th-grade self again.

On the other hand, maybe I am: Fringe is fun! It’s hip (not hippie)! It’s also undeniably of-the-moment. Celebrities are wearing it. Blogs are blogging it. And, of course, most importantly: All the top designers have created gorgeous footwear decorated - to varying degrees - with it.

For example:
Christian Lacroix’s pink-heeled beauties and Stuart Weitzman’s Feline include whimsical touches of fringe, to create gorgeous heels that are surprisingly versatile. Meanwhile, Christian Louboutin’s Forever Tina Fringe Boots take an in-your-face approach, combining skyscraper heels with more fringe than you were likely to see in Haight-Ashbury in 1968: this boot is indeed for the bold fashionista. In the middle ground lies Gucci: both its Iggy Fringe Boot and Cambridge High-Heel Moccasin have enough fringe to allow their wearers to participate in the trend, without its taking over their look completely.

Bottom line: There are plenty of options for fringe shoes and boots, even for the fringe-nervous. Let’s take a look at some of your shopping options:

FRINGE BOOTS

Perhaps the most traditional vehicle for fringe, these newly-popular tiered boots have actually been around forever. They’re great for bopping around town on weekends, and look funky with skinny jeans or a short skirt and tights. The newly resurgent Minnetonka makes a classic calf-high boot with 3 layers of fringe. If you seriously love fringe, this is a great choice. If that’s a little too classic for you, check out
these boots by Joie - Deja Vu with 5 tiers of fringe - I love the cognac color and the more delicate fringe. If you’re a one-tier woman, these Dollhouse Loomy boots might be just the ticket. They’re not quite as fringe-y, but are still fun and of-the-moment.

FRINGE SHOES

Fringe is not just for boots! Fringe on high heels amps up their sexyiness and playfulness, no doubt. Speaking of No Doubt, check out these fabulously sexy sandals from L.A.M.B. (Gwen Stefani’s line) – sort of make you want to go dancing, don’t they? Another sexy option is this pair of Marciano heels: the black patent leather is great, and they have kind of a gladiator thing going on too! If you’re looking for a dynamite daytime shoe, these
Moschino oxfords would be great paired with a more conservative outfit. While they have just a touch of fringe, it’s enough to really punch up your look. The same is true for these fun and funky pumps by Juicy Couture, what a great antidote to a boring work outfit.

FRINGE FLATS

Fringe on flats is adorable! Don’t you love these orange fabric/white patent leather confections by Oh…Deer! – they would be absolutely smashing paired with denim. These ballet flats from Juicy Couture
are incredibly versatile, the fringe is very subtle, but they are a great fall shoe. Finally, wouldn’t you feel gorgeous in these Alexander McQueen sandals on your island vacation this winter?

Be bold and embrace this trend, and enjoy your shopping!