Uggs a comfy, if not unique, boot option

Nothing feels quite like slipping your feet into a cozy pair of Classic Ugg boots for the first… Nothing feels quite like slipping your feet into a cozy pair of Classic Ugg boots for the first time after a long summer spent thwacking around the pavement in rubber flip-flops.’ Uggs enjoyed their time in the celebrity spotlight a few years back, before becoming an autumn and winter shoe staple among high school and college students. And while this boot’s style merits are certainly debatable, one thing’s for sure ‘mdash; they are the most comfortable boots you will ever wear. Sadly, we are not judged by how comfortable our shoes are, but by how visually appealing they happen to be. So, here are a few alternatives to the Classic Ugg boot this season from a few of my favorite shoe stores. First, we’ll start with Nine West. Highly impractical, but drop-dead sexy, Nine West’s boots are sure to amp up the ‘wow’ factor. The store has a plethora of styles, but what really stands out are its ankle boots, or booties. A big trend this fall, booties have been gaining popularity for several seasons. The ‘Santani’ boot features ruching detail on the front of the boot and a four-inch heel in the back. Described as ‘ultra-feminine’ on ninewest.com, this shoe comes in black, dark gray and medium purple and complement Michael Kors-esque ‘Mad Men’-inspired looks perfectly.’ Cash in on the menswear trend with ‘Kimball,’ a front lace-up ankle boot on sale for $69.99. Vintage-inspired, resembling styles from the ’30s, this shoe can be found in either black or brown. The ‘Hilda’ (perhaps named for the sexed-up sister of ‘Ugly Betty?’) will be a titillating addition to your shoe collection. Snakeskin and a side zipper make this bootie a real knockout, while the pleated front adds even more dimension. Get your orders in now for ‘Iam,’ shipping on Oct. 20. Featured in both August Allure and September Elle magazines, this bootie boasts a fierce leather and lace blend, the perfect pair of sweet and sultry.’ Nine West is located in SouthSide Works and Ross Park Mall, or you can browse and buy online at ninewest.com. Aldo Shoes offers an almost overwhelming selection of boots, including all colors, heel heights, materials, shapes and styles. Even choosing which category to browse first on the Web site proves difficult. What’s the difference between City Fashion, Sport Fashion, Dress Fashion, Dress Classics, Career Classics and Casual Classics? I have no idea. But I do know that I love what I see when I click on each one.’ Channel your inner ’90s child and throw on ‘Mumpower’ boots, a Doc Martens-esque ankle high-laced style selling in camel or black. Pair with a grunge-perfect plaid flannel or flimsy floral print dress, and you’re ready to walk out the door. The ‘Flokezi’ boot (where do they get these names?) is the quintessential ‘hippie-chic bootie,’ as the Web site describes it. The suede flat boot resembling a moccasin is outfitted with fringe and metallic studding to keep it stylish. Turn heads in ‘Tamisha,’ a high-heeled, knee-high boot in the must-have color of the season: purple. For everyday wear, nothing beats ‘Cassella,’ a flat leather boot that you can find in dark brown, camel or black. The description reads ‘urban chic meets comfort,’ ensuring that you can run to class while still looking fabulous in this slouchy boot with an almond-shaped toe. Aldoshoes.com and the Aldo store at Ross Park Mall are the places to go for these shoe sensations. Now this may seem a little silly, considering that I’m giving alternatives to Classic Ugg boots, but the reality is that Ugg Australia does have other stylish substitutes to its overdone basic boot.’ Exposed sheepskin, rich leather and a bold buckle all make ‘Langley’ a necessity. These tall boots zip up the back for easy accessibility and come in either black or brown to match every outfit. The ‘Totten’ style evokes a more masculine, equestrian feel, ensuring that even the girliest of outfits stay grounded. Leather and suede in brown on black or black on black are stitched together to create a unique boot that you can trot all over town wearing. Don’t think just because ‘Raya’ has a high-heel that this style isn’t comfy ‘mdash; a sheepskin foot bed ensures that your tootsies have a luxurious place to stay the day. Suede, leather, two metal buckles and sheepskin trim finish off this stylish boot. The ‘Caroline’ style, featuring a strap that buckles around the shaft of the boot and supple black or cigar colored leather, make this high-heeled boot a definite fashion favorite of mine. A sheepskin foot bed is an added extra to an already stellar shoe. I’m not giving up my Classic Uggs anytime soon, and I wouldn’t advise you to, either ‘mdash; they are just too warm! But a girl’s got to have options. Happy shopping!