Top Women's Shoe Trends for Fall 2008

Models trotted down the runway in simple ankle boots and over-the-top heels during New York Fashion Week in February '08, and some of the top trends will be showing up in retail stores as early as July. If you want to peek ahead at what's in store, here are some of the top women's shoe trends for Fall 2008:

Fall 2008 Women's Shoes Trend: Metallic Flats
Metallic flats were a great match for Barbara Tfank's collection of Asian-inspired designs, and were paired with knee-length coats and silver metallic flats fit snugly underneath wide-length grey pants and tweed suits for the season. Pick up yours in silver rather than gold to lead the season's trends.

Fall 2008 Women's Shoe Trends: Ankle Tie Platform Heels
This trend was spotted on the Bill Blass RTD collection in both leather and suede. This look adds height and sophistication for both short and long-legged women; pick up anything with a high ankle tie that buckles tight at least 2" above the ankle for one of the top trends this year.

Fall 2008 Women's Shoe Trends: Knee-High Slouch Boots
Slouchy boots are back this Fall in patent leather, suede, and classic leather styles. Carolina Herrera matched up these boots over plaid pants and with knee-length dresses. This look is a far cry from the skintight knee-high boots of previous seasons - look for styles that leave lots of space right above the knee.

Fall 2008 Women's Shoe Trends: Exotic Skins
Exotic skins continue to be a top trend for shoes and handbags this year, but they're appearing in new styles with the ankle bootie this Fall. Look for croc and python skins in Fall's top shades - shitake, dark grey, and pewter - to round out that wardrobe. This look was spotted on Donna Karan's collection at NY Fashion Week, and can be worn with both skirts and tailored trousers this season.

Fall 2008 Women's Shoe Trends; Military Boots
The masculine, chunky military boot is back this Fall, and even paired with military-style dresses, pantsuits, and short skirts. Marc by Marc Jacobs turned the spotlight onto this look at NY Fashion Week, and it's a rugged, fashion-forward style in the women's shoe department.