Just because summer is over doesn’t mean you're going to give up your sneakers. But if ever there was a time to lace up a pair of boots, it's autumn. But here's the thing about boots: they need to be tough—you can't baby them because they actually look better with a few battle scars. Which is why you want to invest in a well-made pair that can take the shit getting kicked out of them. But you don't need to go broke buying a pair either. While there's no shortage of investment-level boots on the market, there are also a handful of reasonably priced options from respectable brands. Better yet, they're available in a range of styles and colors to suit your tastes.

One thing they all have in common? They all deftly toe the line between bulky work boots and fancy dress versions. Simply styled with a substantial sole and crafted with quality leather and suede, these boots are handsome, rugged and decidedly modern. They pair nicely with your tailored suit pants or cuffed wool trousers but, of course, were made for beat-up denim or worn-in chinos. So find yourself a pair, wear the hell out of them and don't feel the need to take them off anytime soon.