The 5 Ankle Boot Trends That We're Really Into
When buying a new pair of ankle boots, it pays to do your research, as this is an investment purchase you want to see you through until next summer. This is where we step in. We have looked through all the new-in boots to bring you the five key styles which are worth buying into this season. These trends are all over new-in sections, however, they aren't a fad that you'll wear for just one year.
The Western silhouette is dominating this year, and you either opt for a subtle cowboy boot or go all-out Dallas. Then the animal print trend has made its way into footwear, as snakeskin boots are having a moment. If you want something a little more classic, then we love the mock croc-stamped effect on ankle boots (the below Nanushka pair are the dream) and lace front detailing, as made popular by Instagram label By Far. Keep scrolling to see and shop the five ankle-boot trends we're most into for autumn.
1. Snakeskin
 
Snakeskin ankle boots are arguably the key buy for 2018, and there are several styles available—depending on quite how much animal print you can brave at once. Mango's dark brown £100 boots are chic, standout style.
2. Chunky and Practical
 
Hiking boots are no longer reserved for weekends in the Lake District, as designers like Proenza Schouler and Jimmy Choo have made practical boots a fashion-girl favourite.
Related: 15 Affordable Pieces Everyone Wants Right Now, According to Instagram
3. Updated Western
 
Western boots have been popular for several seasons now, and they remain a key buy for autumn 2018. Many of the styles out there have Cuban heels and square toes in black leather, which give them a modern update.
4. Lace-Up Front
 
Chloé's Rylee boots can't be restocked fast enough. Unsurprisingly, a number of lace-up front boots have followed suit. The laces add a quirk to classic black leather boots.
Related: Winter 2018 Fashion Trends: The Only Looks You Need to Know
5. Croc Effect
 
When it comes to the most Instagrammable accessories for autumn/winter 2018, it's all about croc-effect boots. It makes the leather look so much more expensive.
Next up, see our guide to the autumn/winter 2018 trends to know.
Opening Image: Style du Monde

Emma is a freelance fashion editor with over 15 years experience in industry, having worked at The Telegraph, Grazia and, most recently, British Vogue. Emma was part of the founding team of Who What Wear UK, where she worked for six years as Deputy Editor and then Editor—helping shape the team into what it is today is one of the biggest privileges of her career and she will always see herself as a Who What Wear girl, contributing to both the US and UK sites. Whether she's writing about runway trends or spotlighting emerging brands, she aims to write about fashion in a way that is democratic and doesn't promote over consumption.
- 
Here's the Comfy Yet Incredibly Chic Boot Style Fashion People Are Already Wearing on RepeatThese make any outfit look more expensive.
 - 
Irina Shayk and I Agree: Leggings Look Chicest With This Specific Boot Style and ColorTrust me.
 - 
We Did the Research: These Are the 25 Best Pairs of Chelsea Boots, Hands DownThey're so back.
 - 
Not Skinny Jeans, Not Leggings—Everyone With Good Taste Is Wearing Boots With This Fall Staple InsteadThe chicest outfit formula of the season.
 - 
Meghan Markle and Kate Middleton Agree: This Boot Trend Is Made for Skinny JeansAre you on the same page?
 - 
Forget What You've Heard—Ankle Boots Are Still In, and This Expensive-Looking (But Just $50) Pair Is ProofGrab them before they're gone.
 - 
I Walk Over 5 Miles a Day Working in Manhattan—Here's an Editor-Approved City Girl's Guide to Fall ShoesPlus, how I'd style them.
 - 
Wearing a Preppy Cardigan With This Controversial Boot Trend Makes It Look 10x CoolerYou won't believe it.
 

