Take 12: Boots and Bags for Fall

Ladies, it's time for fall accessories. I'm choosing to focus on boots and bags for two very good reasons: I need a new pair of boots, and a few friends said they need a new bag. 

(Most of the bags and boots that I feature here are available in various colors.)

Here's what you should look out for in bags: 

1. Hardware on the strap—any kind of chain-link or metal on the strap is going to look super-luxe.

2. Quilted or other textures—while a crocodile print always looks super-fresh, try a quilted, ruffled, or pleated texture for a different style.

3. Purple and gray—just go for it! Any shade of purple (besides pastel) and light or dark gray is going to be huge this fall. If you're looking for another color, a deep green, navy blue, or wine color will also look very now.

The following are a few finds that I love...some are pricey, but look at them for inspiration, unless you can swing it! Then, by all means, indulge!! (Our economy needs all the help it can get!)

I'm loving this J. Crew bag — it comes in gray and other colors too. About $300.

This bag is sleek! Banana Republic, $270.

The textures on this bag are bangin'! The silver rings that connect the handle are stellar too. Nine West, $85.

The shape and wine color of this Kenneth Cole bag make it very versatile. I also think the shoulder strap looks really comfy. $168.

Love the darker gray of this Nine West bag, plus the stitching on top. And it's on sale right now! $40.

The shape of this bag is really cool...the pleats remind me of a skirt. And the color's almost a sandy gray—a great neutral. Target, $23.

Now what to look for in boots:

1. Try something slouchy—for higher boots, with or without heels, try a more casual look. These boots look great with dresses, skirts, and skinny jeans or leggings.

2. Go for the booties—don't be afraid of a lower boot, with folded tops or buckles. They'll look awesome with dresses and skirts and, depending on the style of the top, will work with pants as well.

3. Again, purple and gray—Why buy boots in one of these colors, you may ask? Well, gray is just as neutral as brown and black and it's unexpected. Purple goes with a lot more than you may realize. Seriously. You can wear purple shoes with just about any color on top.

Here's some favorites:

These are seriously the coolest boots I have seen in a long time. I just love the color, the shape of the seam, the buttons, the height of the heel, everything! Now, my calves may be a bit thick for these high boots, but if I see you in them, I will admire you forever. Chinese Laundry, $89.

I am feeling these boots! Obviously I love the slouchy style, but the chunky heel and buckles make them that much cooler. Wear with skirts, floral dresses, and skinny jeans. Style & Co. (Macy's), $79.

Every winter I know someone looking for a pair of classic black boots. There a go-to item for women everywhere because they go with everything. Personally, I always like styles that are shinier, pointier, and have some kind of metal detailing—but not too much. I love lower heels...must be because I've lived mostly in climates where you actually have to walk in snow and ice in these. These are a good price—$99—and could last you two winters if you care for them properly. Also, your local cobbler can do wonders by replacing the heel, sole, and fixing up a scuffed toe for year two. Style & Co. (Macy's).

As I said, I usually can't do knee-high boots, so I'm going to try one of these two styles soon. Nine West, $119.

Or these, by Jessica Simpson, $130.

These are just fun, and I love the shape, with the dip in the front. Sex-y! Nine West, $119.

The following are some purple boots I found that I heart oh-so-much!

Love the suede! Very in this fall. Nine West, $79.

These tall Aldo boots are HOT! Awesome for skirts and dresses. $140.

Love the shape of these! So unique. They look really comfortable, and I think they'll work with skirts, dresses, and under or over pants. Nice. Aldo, $130.

Finally, these are another favorite. I love the color, and the folds at the top are just so cool. These are top-notch, I say (please say this sentence in a British accent). Report, $115.