If you can only splurge on one new item to update your wardrobe this fall, make it a new bootie. Why? Because this season’s crop of footwear with their lower heel heights and streamlined toe boxes will instantly update your wardrobe. So whether it’s to put a fresh spin on your skinny jeans or add a modern edge to your favorite midi skirt, our list of the best booties in town will give you instant fashion cred.

The sock bootie is a season must-have, and this velvet version by Prada ($875) lets you cover two trends with one shoe. The sock bootie—which fits snugly up to about mid-calf—elongates the leg by creating a sleek line. Nordstrom, Cherry Creek Shopping Center, 2810 E. First Ave., 720-746-2424, shop.nordstrom.com

Looking for something more classic? Try Coclico’s blue suede bootie ($410). The color will give your wardrobe neutrals a bit of pop, but still plays nicely with patterns and jewel tones. Strut, 3611 W. 32nd Ave., 303-477-3361, strutdenver.com

For the outdoorsy, yet chic types, Tory Burch’s Cooper shearling bootie ($428) is our pick. The olive green hue is on-trend (it also comes in black), while the compact shape and sleek styling makes it perfect for pairing with jeans or skirts. Tory Burch, Cherry Creek Shopping Center, 3000 E. First Ave., 303-388-1383, toryburch.com

Prada velvet sock bootie, $875, Nordstrom
Coclico
Coclico suede bootie, $410, Sturt
Tory Burch suede and shearling bootie, $428, Tory Burch
Celine leather boot, $1,140, Max
Klub Nico suede Chelsea boot, $250, Nordstrom
Christian Louboutin sequin Disco bootie, $895, Neiman Marcus
No. 6 leather buckle boot, $395, Cedar & Hyde

Western influences are all the rage this season (see 5280’s fall fashion feature for our take on the trend) and that means cowboy boots are back. Celine’s high fashion version ($1,140) comes with contrast stitching and a substantial angular heel. Max, 264 Detroit St., 303-321-4949, maxclothing.com

For a menswear take on the bootie trend, try the Renita by Klub Nico ($250). The burgundy color and mixed materials are a nice update to the classic men’s Chelsea boot. Nordstrom, Cherry Creek Shopping Center, 2810 E. First Ave., 720-746-2424, shop.nordstrom.com

Skip the Christian Louboutin platform stilettos this season and go instead for his Disco bootie ($895)—my personal pick, particularly if I were joining a glam rock band. The two-tone sequins flip from gold on one side to black on the other, so you can change the pattern on the shoe just by passing your hands over it. Neiman Marcus, Cherry Creek Shopping Center, 3030 E. First Ave., 303-329-2600, neimanmarcus.com

Cult-fav brand No. 6 may be best known for their handmade clogs, but their tough-chic buckle boot ($395, also handmade, BTW) is a season standout. With its chunky heel and lug sole, this boot’s added grip makes winter walking a piece of cake. Plus, the leather is already water repellent. This is one boot that’s both good looking and functional. Cedar & Hyde, 2015 10th St., Boulder, 720-287-3900, cedarandhyde.com