French Renaissance writer and philosopher Michel de Montaigne once said that "one must always have one's boots on and be ready to go."

Words for women to live by this fall and winter as the boot takes center stage in fashion footwear.

The hottest boots this season are equestrian-inspired or Western-influenced, scrunched or thigh-high, with crochet detailing, studs, buckles, fringes or atypical colors. They range from perennial faves like ultra-cozy UGGs to chic high-heeled booties in calfskin, patent leather or suede.

"The boot is the footwear must-have of the fall, and this season there is something for every preference," said Erin Conroy, spokeswoman for online retailer shoes.com. "One of the most popular styles for women is the bootie, which can be paired with opaque tights and a dress or worn under wide-leg pants. For women who prefer a knee-high or over-the-knee boot, tuck in jeans and slim pants for a polished and sexy look. We're seeing consumers choose boots with details like fringe and buckles, as well as colorful boots to accent neutral outfits."

Riding boots are a big trend, influenced largely by Ralph Lauren's runway looks this season and lifestyle branding in general. Lauren has numerous riding boot designs in each of his lines from Polo to Ralph Lauren Collection, as well as booties and knee-high styles in calfskin, crocodile, suede and leopard print.

Ecco sent out a similarly wide range for women, including a handsome black-burnished gray patent leather riding boot that just arrived at Littles in Squirrel Hill.

"For ultimate comfort, flat boots are very popular and fashionable this season," said Ms. Conroy.

At Bondstreet Shoes on Ellsworth Avenue in Shadyside, owner Karsten Chorus said more customers are choosing shearling-lined riding boots by Italian brand Manaf or equestrian-style boots with buckle and knit detail by Apepazza.

He's selling "a lot of flat boots, maybe with a little heel," he said.

Women who prefer a more high-fashion look are reaching for the bootie, which is available in a stunning array of styles and materials with high heels and assorted embellishments. They look good with long skirts, leggings and skinny jeans.

Meanwhile, the mass popularity of UGGs Australia waterproof sheepskin boots shows no sign of waning. At Littles, which has one of the few in-store UGGs stores in the United States, scores of new styles have arrived in colors such as metallic silver, metallic gold and dark gray and in new prints such as leopard and baroque.

There are new wedge and low-heel harness styles, in addition to the normal flat UGG boot, which comes in a low-rise and high-rise with tops that can be folded down for a different look.

"They're selling everywhere still, but in Pittsburgh maybe more so because it's cold here and you stay warm and dry in them," said the store's Justin Sigal. "They're comfortable and functional, and they're versatile."

If you can add only one new pair of boots to your wardrobe this season, Ms. Conroy at shoes.com recommends the slouch because it's versatile.

"It can be pulled up for an over-the-knee look with minis and skinny jeans or scrunched for a more casual bohemian feel with jeans and dresses," she said.

"Regardless of style preference," she added, "it is important to make sure your boots fit well and are wearable. Toe shapes run the gamut this fall, so select the shape that feels best for your feet. Round and almond-shaped toes tend to be the roomiest. If you love a higher boot, look for a pair with a platform, which adds height while also offering more stability than a stiletto heel."

Here are some tips for buying and caring for boots:

• Try on both boots at the same time and walk around in them.

• Try on the next lower and next higher sizes for comparative fit. Some brands design smaller or larger than standard numbers indicate.

• The way boots are constructed, it's normal for there to be a little room in the heel.

• Wear clothing to the store that you'll be wearing with the boots to make sure the heights are compatible.

• Wear the type of sock or hosiery with the boot that you plan to normally wear with it.

• Before wearing boots, apply a water-repellent or stain protection. Such products can protect against mud stains, rock salt, etc. If boots are leather, polish them before first wear to enhance scuff-resistance and moisture protection.

• Monitor the condition of heels and toes, which usually are the first areas to show signs of wear and tear.

• Can't invest big bucks in a new pair of boots? Dress up an old pair with Booty Bling! low-fastening decorative cuffs, $29 to $109 each at booty-bling.com.