Our Fall Shoe Guide Is Here—Meet the Season's 4 Key Styles

Whether it's already cold where you live or you want to be prepared when the cold front hits (you overachiever, you), you've come to the right place. I've got boots on the brain in a major way, so I've put together a guide to the season's must-know pairs. There are four styles, in particular, that matter most this fall and winter, and to no one's surprise, Sorel's new collection has them all. The brand's footwear is always expertly crafted and designed with current trends in mind, but this time around, the people at Sorel really outdid themselves. In fact, I'd argue these are the only four boot styles you need to know about right now. And don't worry—I've got genius styling ideas for you, too.

Let's be clear: No actual hiking (or camping or any other outdoorsy activity, for that matter) is required in order to participate in the hiker-boot trend. These boots are characterized by their lace-up ties and treaded soles, details that offer a slightly rugged, utilitarian look. They're the perfect boot when you want to add a bit of edge to a low-key outfit. I love the idea of styling these waterproof suede boots with apparel in another technical fabric like nylon. The emerald-green utility pants and bright-purple, rain-resistant bomber jacket really pop against the tan boots for a cool, off-duty look.

Classic, flat Chelsea boots made a major comeback last fall, but this year, it's all about styles with a short heel. These ankle boots are arguably the easiest footwear trend to style, whether it's with denim, a sweaterdress, or a miniskirt like you see here. The pleated skirt, argyle sweater-vest, button-down, and exposed socks tap into the school-girl trend that's having a moment right now, but the heeled Chelsea boots make it all feel a bit more polished (read: less "high school uniform").

Lug-sole boots are a fashion-editor favorite, and I can't get enough of them. Sorel makes the coolest version with a block heel, which adds an elevated touch to the otherwise casual footwear style. But the best part is that the boots are two-tone, which makes the lug sole really stand out. I like the idea of leaning into this color-blocking effect with your outfit by wearing a top and bottom in the same colors as the boots. This black and pink combo is giving "'80s rocker chick," and I'm here for it.

The last boot trend that's worth the investment this season is actually half boot, half sneaker. This unique hybrid style is both sporty and comfortable, and I'm favoring this one from Sorel because of the super-convenient pull-on style (no laces in sight!). While this sneaker-boot is a no-brainer with athleisure looks, I also recommend experimenting with outfits that are equal parts sporty and polished. Take this 'fit, for example: The shoes are paired with stretchy, split-hem pants (sporty) and an oversize blazer (polished).