The Top-Voted Black Ankle Boots Are Actually Budget-Friendly, Too

The specifics may change, but there's one item that's a staple in our wardrobes season after season: simple, black booties. Maybe it’s because of our tendency to latch onto a uniform, or to stick to a color that's guaranteed to flatter. Either way, the simplicity of a stark, black boot has become a symbol of no-fuss, immediate style. Acting as a transitional piece from hot to cold and day to night, it's the sartorial equivalent of a best friend — it's reliable, it mixes well with company, and it always has our backs, er, feet. Coming in at number-one in the category is Sam Edelman's Petty suede bootie. It earned the spot thanks to its best-seller status, budget-friendliness (less than $140), and rave reviews. Sitting low on the ankle and featuring a small-but-mighty two-inch heel, these booties leave wearers most impressed with their comfortable fit and wear-with-everything versatility. One Amazon customer praises the style: "I purchased this bootie to wear with jeans and dresses. It seems to look great with every outfit. It is one of the most comfortable shoes I have ever worn, and the size is right-on. The construction is high-quality, the heel is dressy enough for work but casual enough for everything else. I could wear this shoe every day." Now's the best time to think about investing in staples, as we approach Labor Day (specifically: Labor Day sales). Saving on the little black boots you'll wear all fall gives you a bigger excuse for stocking up on other seasonal favorites, from flared jeans to saddle bags. With a closet full of effortless fall styles, don't be surprised when you're suddenly asking yourself: Summer who?