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.
-
Soft Knits and Suede Boots Are on My Mind—Here's What's in My Nordstrom Cart
Get in the fall mood with these chic picks.
-
Pump the Brakes on Booties—Kate Hudson Knows the Better Fall Shoe Trend to Pair With Dresses
This outfit combo is top-tier.
-
7 Expensive-Looking Outfits to Wear With Fall's Most Iconic Shoe Trend
Let your outfit do the talking.
-
Forget Lace-Up Boots: This Casual and Easy Boot Trend Is About to Be Everywhere
Make this your first boot purchase for the season.
-
The Pretty Dress Trend L.A. It Girls Are Bringing Into Fall (and the "Basic" Style They Already Forgot About)
It's finally time to part ways with boring linen dresses.
-
I'm Manifesting a Fashionable Fall in NYC With These 36 Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Finds
Frye, AllSaints, Vince, Coach, and more.
-
I Thought Wearing These Shoes With Shorts Was Cringey—Turns Out the Combo Is Peak 2025
Apologies are in order.
-
Fall Is Already on My Mind—I'm Prepping My Wardrobe With These 31 Elevated Nordstrom Finds
Each piece is chic and on sale.