The air is getting crisper and Fall.Winter 2011 has officially arrived. There are so many great trends this fall but I am going to highlight some of my favourites:

Suedes - For the fall you say? Traditionally people in Canada have a preconceived notion that suedes are hard to keep and typically steer clear. But I am happy to say, you’re not going to be able to avoid it this Fall 2011. Suede is a strong material interest being used in all categories, casual flats, platform heels and boots.What I appreciate most about suede is the texture and the richness of the colors. Protect them well with a leather spray and brush them frequently with a suede brush and you’re good to go in wet weather.

Rag and Bone, red suede oxfords. 

Color Blocking - It’s time to have some fun with your shoes! Go color, get bold and if you are looking to add some new life to your outfit do it with a color-blocked shoe. Apparel may be getting more streamlined and simplistic but I think this is a great time to let footwear shine.

Pierre Hardy, color-block ankle peep toe.

Thick Heels - Thick heels are not as “sexy” as stilettos but, you can surely get the sexy height! You can not get away this fall without owning a pair of thick heeled shoes or boots. The 70’s decade is a huge look for fall 2011 and you’ll be needing thick stacked shoes to pair with your flared jeans, trousers and maxi dresses.

Miu Miu, thick heeled oxfords.

Chelsea Boots - This boot style was typically worn by men as a dress boot under trousers. The name of the boot originated in London’s fashionable Chelsea neighborhood in the Victorian era. The signature detail of a classic Chelsea boot are the elastic panels on the sides of the boot. It’s now a wardrobe stable in women’s fashion for fall 2011. Alexander Wang’s version of a Chelsea boot is one that makes my heart pound and palms sweat.

Alexander Wang, Anabela chelsea boot.

H by Hudson, Fairbank boot.

The Wedge -I think the wedge is going to over take the heel this year. It is much more comfortable to walk in and looks amazing both as a casual and a dress item. The wedges have become more exaggerated and I love the extra attention to detail on the wedge design.

Rachel Zoe, Eva wedge.

Animals -  Welcome to the jungle. Clearly the leopard textile reigns supreme this fall/winter but don’t forget about the snake. Go full out and wear it all over animal print, or highlight the shoe with trims and accents.

Betsey Johnson, Sashaa ballet shoe.

Dolce Vita, Cala snake bootie.

Sunny Shum, Footwear Buyer, Blogger & Your Industry Insider | Follow me @partly_sunny