You can’t wear sandals all the time, even in summer (although I try!). Sometimes your outfit requires actual shoes. One of the hottest trends for 2011 is booties—low boots that work with almost everything. And the great thing is, you can wear these in every season, too.

Something like this patent-leather trimmed suede boot is one example. The blue version would pop, and the black version would go with everything.

A simpler option is the classic shoe bootie, which would look fantastic with trousers or a short skirt and tights.

And for a casual look with jeans, khakis or leggings, these low-heeled laceup booties are a must have.

What’s your favorite bootie look?

I recently saw a question on another website asking about the best shoes to wear with skinny jeans or leggings—if you’re not wearing boots. The asker got a number of responses and the women all agreed that flats, especially of the ballet variety, are the best choice, with other flat shoes like flip-flops coming in second.

So, if you don’t like boots or just want to switch things up when you wear a tunic-legging combo, check out these flat shoe options:

Suede ballet flats with a quilted top are soft and comfortable. Plus they come in a ton of colors, so you can get a couple of pairs if you need to match several outfits.

These essential skimmers are another good flat option, and you can pretty much wear these shoes with anything. Lots of neutral colors or a shiny patent leather!

And if you’re lucky enough to be in a warm place where you still break out the leggings or jeans, these cute ruffled sandals would also work really well.

Just because everyone else pairs boots and leggings doesn’t mean that you have to. Try mixing it up and see what combos work for you.