Specifically, I’m obsessed with fall/winter wear — namely boots.

When that last bit of summer air vacates — and truthfully, even before that — I pull down the boxes of boots I’ve had my eye on all summer.

As much as I love boots, I equally don’t love Uggs. It doesn’t matter how short or tall they are, if they’ve extra fur, what color you can get them in, or if they sparkle from sequins. To me, they are Ugg-ly.

Yes, Uggs are comfortable. But so are many other boots if you’d give them a try! That’s why I’m here: to show you the way of the boot and open your eyes to the wide world outside of Uggs.

right, Boots on display at Heirloom Shoe

This fall, popular bootwear styles will be high-heeled boots, wedge-heeled boots, animal print patterns, industrial styles and boots with fringe or other embellishments.

The metro brings a bounty of kicks. Start by shopping at Edmond’s Pink Sugar Shoe Boutique (1389 E. 15th; 359-0044), where you’ll have your pick of several heel and wedge options, booties or knee-high. Vince Camuto is a popular brand there and comes with a reputation of high quality that I can personally attest to. You’ll also find Michael Kors, Bacio 61 and OTBC.

If you want to maintain boutique glam with a hint of down home, look no further than Heirloom Shoe (4415 N. Western; 605-0356). Prepare to be greeted by the shop dog, as well as beautiful furniture and tables full of fancy footwear. In varying types of heels and heights, this boutique is your one-stop-shop for all things embellished. You’ll find fringe and tasteful, elegant glitz, as well as animal prints and neutrals.

Don’t shy away if you’re after industrial styles. Heirloom has an ample selection of those, too, boasting lace-ups and slip-ons. You’ll find labels like Something Bleu, Luxury Rebel and Coclico.

Less boutique-y, the sole haven known as Shoe Gypsy (6434 Avondale; 608-0931) offers a wide variety of styles and colors, and the friendly owner makes the shopping experience personal and fun. You’ll definitely get you industrial and casual foot fix here. With TOMS to Jefferey Campbell, you can get some glam if you prefer.

No need to pay for shipping or fight the crowds at the mall — the metro has plenty of covet-worthy options for the season. Let’s shop, OKC!

Photo by Mark Hancock

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