Time and fashion have done to the Wellington boot what they do to almost every article of clothing, from trench coats to bomber hats.

Since their first appearance in London, "Wellies" have morphed into a stylish accessory worn around the world. Regardless of size or color, these insulated, rubbery galoshes are an excellent -- and increasingly stylish -- defense against the rain, snow, slush and mud that characterize autumn and winter weather.

Also known as topboots and gumboots, they were born almost 200 years ago when Arthur Wellesley, the first duke of Wellington, returned home after defeating Napoleon. He instructed his London shoemaker, Hoby of St. James Street, to modify an uncomfortable Hessian boot commonly worn since the 1700s. The cobbler obliged, and the duke was photographed in 1815 wearing the new close-fitting, calf-high, short-heel look.

It wasn't long before style-conscious British men, influenced by their war hero, began wearing the leather boots. Soon dubbed Wellingtons, their popularity spread across national borders and today they're hotter than ever. Usually made of rubber or a synthetic equivalent, the warm, waterproof boots are traditionally favored as dark green in England, black in Canada and black with yellow soles in the United States.

But, like most styles that get swept up in the winds of trends, Wellies this season come in an array of colors and patterns. And you can easily find them in the $30-$50 range.

Women's styles are particularly varied and abundant. London Fog has a blue print similar to the Burberry plaid, and J. Crew's vivid colors and prints range from bright red with brown side laces to brown textured wool with blue side bows and vivid yellow and green versions with critter images sprinkled on them. Many have quilting, and more high-fashion styles sport sherpa linings or sweater cuffs.

The fun and funky styles for women look good with garments ranging from skinny pants and cuffed denim to leggings and casual skirts.

"It's the old story," said Ron Friedman, owner of Ten Toes in Shadyside, which is carrying brown and black plaid styles by Rocket Dog.

"It started at the end of the season last year. We got a few in around Easter and they sold out, and they just sort of continued for the last year," he said.

"They're not expensive, and there's no age limit on these things."