The Budget Fashionista

Recently, we’ve seen ankle boots lauded as the transition shoe trend for Spring. Wait a minute -- weren’t ankle boots the hot trend for fall and winter? Are heavy-looking ankle boots really, REALLY a shoe for spring? We are skeptical at best -- sometimes we think the powers that be are just trying to see what they can sneak by us, and get rid of some leftover inventory at the same time.

Of course, we actually do love an ankle boot in general, and if you are completely in love with the look and want to carry it into Spring, the way to wear it is showing as much leg as possible (or as is appropriate) -- think dressy shorts or a short, straight spring skirt, keeping the leg line as long as possible. Also, we think color choice can make all the difference -- consider abandoning dark neutrals for a grey or beige number, or maybe even a pop of that oh-so-popular vibrant color if you think you can pull it off. A bootie to consider: this J. Renee Women's Weston croc print boot, $64.99 at Shoemall.com.

An offshoot we’re REALLY confused about? The peep toe bootie (like these odd ones from Overstock.com), which has been seen on trendy celebs as of late. Umm, with all the adorable peep-toe, sling back, platform colored sandals out there right now? We think we’ll pass . . .