One of the best things about fall’s arrival might just be that it signals the start of boot season. Boots are one of the wardrobe staples that will carry you well into the new year and can be paired with everything from jeans to dresses. Plus, they just automatically make any outfit feel cooler—it’s no wonder we get so excited when stores start stocking these footwear favorites.

So where does one start when it comes to shopping the myriad offerings? To cut through the noise, we’ve narrowed down the six boot trends you need to know this season. We also picked our favorite finds in each category to help you kick-start fall in style.

Western Front

Isabel Marant Dicker suede ankle boot, $560; net-a-porter

Prepare to see every iteration of the classic cowboy boot this fall, from bold multicolor styles to subtler takes. If your vibe is more refined than rodeo, try a Western-inspired ankle boot in a neutral hue and opt for supple suede in favor of stiff leather or an exotic skin. You’ll get the gist of the trend without taking it too literally—and risking looking like an extra on Westworld.

Slouch Down

Zara Flat Leather Boot, $229; zara.com

The ’80s is one of those eras that seems to find its way back into fashion frequently. Again, everything old is officially new again, and the slouchy boot that dominated in the decade of decadence has returned for another round. Lean into the look with an understated neutral pair that has just enough structure to keep it sophisticated. Read: Skip the fingerless lace gloves.

Into the Wild

Steve Madden Brave bootie, $110; stevemadden.com

Whether you opt for leopard, tiger, or snakeskin (oh, my!), in taller boots or ankle styles, animal print is an unequivocal must-have for fall. With this faux reptilian pair, your look will be instantly up to date—without going over the top. Plus, the not-too-high block heel makes these incredibly wearable.

Knee Deep

Vince Casper Suede Boots, $595; vince.com

The past several seasons have seen an abundance of over-the-knee boots and ankle-high styles. Lost in the shuffle: the classic knee-high boot. Tried and true, this shape looks as chic with midi skirts and dresses as it does with skinny pants (tucked in, of course)—and it’s back with a versatile vengeance for fall. So feel free to take your footwear to new, er, old, heights.

Kitten Around

Aquazurra Quant Croc-Effect Leather Ankle Boots, $895; net-a-porter.com

The ’80s have been slowly creeping back into the fashion zeitgeist, and, as mentioned above, the style revival has reached fever pitch this fall. That doesn’t mean suiting up in shoulder pads and leg warmers—some things are better left in the past. You can, however, incorporate a little of the old-school aesthetic in your wardrobe with a pair of kitten heel ankle boots. In croc-embossed burgundy, this nostalgic nod is still undeniably modern.

Chelsea Lately

Coach Bowery Chelsea Bootie, $295; nordstrom.com

Another classic that’s returned in a big way for fall? The Chelsea boot. Think of this style as the cool-weather version of your favorite flats—reliable, comfortable, and beyond versatile. It’s all in the details with this pair from Coach—note the hidden goring, low stacked heel, and subtle charms on the pull tab.

Ready for a fall style reboot? Shopping this trend cheat sheet is the perfect first step.