Perhaps global warming is to blame, but there is an interesting trend popping up on fall 2008 runways; despite cooler weather fast approaching, many designers have opted against the knee-grazing boots of winter. The newest shoe on the runway this season stops just above the ankle, and takes on many forms. It is the perfect shoe to bridge the spring and fall seasons and take us seamlessly into winter fashion. Look for three distinct variations of the length this fall with the new gladiator sandal, the over-the-ankle bootie, and ankle-length stockings.

The evolution of the gladiator sandal sees a shoe that is bolder and more daring than the style of the summer. Givenchy's Fall 2008 Ready to Wear collection features a sandal with wide bands crisscrossing the foot and over the ankle. Black, patent leather straps produce a futuristic effect, while gold embossed straps retain a delicate sensibility. Yves Saint Laurent uses gold and bronze medallions to create an opulent gladiator sandal that can both complement a feminine dress and adorn distressed jeans.


Givenchy Fall 2008 (photo cred: Daniele Oberrauch)

This season's over-the-ankle bootie comes in various styles. A slew of booties emulate fall's oil-slicked trend, as executed best by Yves Saint Laurent and Jimmy Choo. The bootie also holds on to last season's love of brights, with Christian Louboutin's super-high, super saturated booties, and as seen on the models at Chlo's Fall 2008 collection. If you are at all self-conscious about your calves, then opt for a style with high heels that fits loosely around the leg.

Mabel Patent Leather Boot (photo cred: JimmyChoo.com)

Dries Van Noten and Abaete embrace fall's new length, and the approaching cool weather, by pairing heels with dark above-the-ankle stockings. Pairing heels with this length of stocking requires confidence and as high a heel as you can stand. Paired with the wrong flat, a girl can quickly go from fashion-forward to dowdy (I'm picturing the classic sock and Birkenstock combo adored by many relatives of mine).



Dries Van Noten (photo cred: Don Ashby & Olivier Claisse)

A shoe this length poses many questions of how exactly to wear it. The new ankle bootie and YSL's gladiator sandal pairs best with flowing, above-the-knee frocks, while the striking sandals at Givenchy shine when worn with black skinny trousers, or over black tights with a structural skirt. Abaete's heels and stockings compliment slate grey separates and wide leg trousers. And how to wear Dries Van Noten's teetering strappy heels? Very carefully.

by Heather Loney