Ugg boots have been a featured player in many popular magazines and runway shows. These boots, which are made from sheep's skin and wool, may look like a strictly winter item, however, when Hollywood and celebrity icons started wearing them, they quickly caught on as a year-round fashion item. While the popularity of this boot style has faded in and out in the context of the history of shoes, the controversy over the term "ugg" continues to this day.

The Beginning of the Ugg
Ugg boots are sheepskin boots that have a tanned leather outer, a fluffy, wool liner and usually a synthetic sole. The terms "ugg," "ug" and "ugh" have been used to describe this type of boot for decades. While ugg boots look like they came from Alaska and are primarily manufactured in the U.S, they actually originated in Australia where they continue to be manufactured today.

Trademark Controversy, What Can Be Called an Ugg
In 1971 the term "Ugh-boot" and several other related terms were registered with the Australian Trade Mark Registry by Shane Stedman. Several decades later he sold his registered rights to Deckers Outdoor Corporation, which is an American shoe manufacturer. After acquiring these rights Deckers Outdoor Corporation went on to register these terms and others with the U.S. Trademark Registry. However, this didn't stop many Australian manufacturers from continuing to use the term "uggs" and related derivations of this term, to describe their products.

In 2003, Deckers had had enough and threatened to sue these companies for trademark infringement. The Australian manufacturers, however, felt that the terms registered were generic terms that had been used for generations to describe traditional Australian sheepskin boots and filed their own legal actions. By January 2005, the Australian Trademark Registry had repealed the trademark protection for the terms "ug," "uggs" and "ugg boots."

Today if you buy ugg boots, there is no guarantee that you will be buying "Ugg Boots." To make sure you are getting the designer version, you will need to buy them from a Deckers distributor. However, if you are looking for the traditional Aussie ug boot, just look for a product with "ug" or "ugh" in the boot's name.

While the basic silhouette of Western boots has survived through the decades, designers have updated the original looks with exotic skins, fur trim, embroidered patches and even sequins and jewels. What will make its way to your closet?

From classic gringo styles to exotic ostrich skin, Western boots continue to be the prized possession of fashionistas across the country. Cowboy boots and ropers can be decked out with leather detailing, embossing and tassels for a classic Southwestern look that's steeped in history. While the basic silhouette of Western boots has survived through the decades, designers have updated the original looks with exotic skins, fur trim, embroidered patches and even sequins and jewels.

It's clear that the country-Western look is here to stay, and boots are the easiest way to pull together a stylish, eye-catching ensemble for any occasion. You don't have to live on a ranch to step into the Western lifestyle once in a while; just pull on a pair of traditional ropers, durable knee-high boots or a fashionable take on classic designs for a one-of-a-kind look!

Western boots are easily distinguished from your average leather boot or bootie with their high shaft, lace-free design and either a rounded or pointed toe. Cowboy boots usually end at mid-calf, have a small heel and can be finished off with a pair of spurs. The roper style usually ends above the ankle and features a squared heel and a rounded toe. The roper is ideal for pairing with short skirts and dresses, while the traditional cowboy can be worn with jeans, leggings and pants. When you want to update your look with some Western inspiration, a pair of boots with some unique details could be all you need to start a new trend.

Luchesse, Old Gringo and Charlie One Horse are just a few of today's bestselling Western boot brands that capture the classic look of an era gone by. Handcrafted boots feature painted designs, embossing and prints to create a unique twist to any outfit. While some may not be high on the comfort factor, they're designed for maximum visual impact and are available in an array of colors. Want to dress up that all-black outfit with a sexy twist? Try a low heel, leather buckle boot that gives you some height with a two- to three-inch heel and sleek, form-fitting style. Dress things up with painted flower designs, embossed leather or zippers and buckles - the perfect combination of fashion-forward looks with Western flair.

Ropers made with rubber soles and leather uppers are a lightweight version of the calf-length boots, a durable and sturdy design with extra cushioning for comfort. Laredo, Ariat and Tony Lamaoffer pairs of practical, unique styles for men, women and kids. Fun and casual, these boots can get you through your daily trek for months, even years to come.

When fashion meets function, you can still catch the Western look with styles from Ariat, Frye and Dingo. Boots and mules from these designers feature wing tip patterns, whipstitch detailing, short and practical heels and either suede or leather construction. Stirrup-friendly soles mean you can still stay stylish on your horseback riding days, and special arch and heel support keeps you in good form on any type of route.

Whether you choose a slouch boot or suede knee highs, fashionable boots with a Western appeal can perk up any standard outfit!