Hot Chocolate

Dark brown boots do everything black boots do but look softer and warmer. They go with denim, camel, cream, grey, burgundy and even black.

The deepest shades, like espresso and cocoa, are the easiest to wear every day, and suede adds extra texture.

I split the edit into two groups: brown ankle boots first, then brown knee high boots.

The chocolate suede ankle boots with low kitten heels look neat under straight jeans, and the pointed espresso suede bootie on a slim heel is the dressiest pick. The brown leather boot with a block heel feels very seventies.

For every day, the chocolate suede chelsea and the zip front suede boot on lug soles are tough and comfortable, and the root brown leather chelsea is a classic.

My fitting room test: wear them with the jeans you love most. The shaft should slide under or sit just below the hem. What I would skip: suede without any water protection for rainy cities.

Tall brown boots are the fall workhorse. The espresso leather riding boots look polished with skirts and jeans, the brown leather kitten heel boots feel sleek, and the chocolate suede styles with slim heels are softer and very pretty.

The slouchy suede boot is relaxed, and the chunky brown leather boot on a platform heel is the fun one.

What I check: the calf fit. Tall boots should close easily over a thin pair of jeans. What I would skip: boots that crease deeply at the ankle after a few steps.

Wear brown ankle boots with dark jeans, a cream cable sweater and a camel coat. For a night out, try tall chocolate suede boots with a burgundy knit dress.

Match your bag or belt to the boots for an outfit that looks planned.