Never in my life did I think I’d be one for combat boots (don’t you love trends that take you by surprise?), but I’m totally loving the military-inspired look for fall. It actually makes me happy that I have yet to find my perfect pair of flat boots for the season ahead, because the lace-up look is definitely something I need to get my hands on (or feet into) by the time fall starts! The flat lace-up style is totally reinventing the stereotypically masculine look into something that’s rough and powerful yet now decidedly feminine to boot with tough-chic details like buckles, fringe, and shiny hardware. They’re surprisingly versatile too — wear them fully-laced for full “military” effect, or folded over for that casually-undone, slouchy boyfriend look. I love how these tall Charles David Regiment boots have a flattering silhouette that accentuate your legs’ shape rather than appearing clunky and clumsy, while these We Who See Rodeo boots have a slightly “preppier” look with their polished finish and “kiltie” detail. For that more distressed look, I’m loving the multi-buckled Michael Kors Joplin boots for the perfect amount of tough-girl edge, while these Joie Jovi boots have a more western feel that’s a bit softer, yet still ready to kick fall’s butt!