Nov 16, 2019

I Own 23 Pairs of Black Boots—But I'd Make Room for Any of These

by Nicole Akhtarzad Eshaghpour

As I’ve tried explaining to my husband time and time again—to no avail, of course—you can truly never have enough pairs of black boots. This is especially true for myself, who lives almost exclusively in the shoe style (in one form or another) for most of fall and winter. It's also true for any girl living in NYC, really, where the name of the game is functionality. You need your casual boots, your heeled boots, your snow boots, and everything in between. Then if you're a stickler for details like me, you’ll find that there are subcategories within all of these categories that must be fulfilled as well. For example, the casual boot that won’t get ruined in the rain, the plain pair, and the statement style. Or the heeled boot that looks good with trousers, one for long jeans, one for short jeans, one for dresses and skirts, etc. I could go on and on, but instead I’ll cut to the chase.

Despite owning more pairs of black boots than anyone should ever admit to in multiple closets and storage situations across America, I’ll always be compelled to buy more of my favorite shoe category—but only if they’re good enough. With that in mind, I figured I’d round up the styles I’m eyeing at the moment, plus share with you some pairs I’m already wearing on the regular. Naturally, that total came out to 26 pairs. To get started (and shopping), just keep scrolling.

Dear Frances Cube Boot ($550)

The ones you clicked into this story for.

Toteme The Wide Shaft Boot ($940)

The fashion world's favorite—for good reason.

Topshop Mara Leather Black Point Boots ($110)

These have a witchy vibe that I feel unusually aligned with.

Miista Marcelle Reptile Embossed Bootie ($435)

This is my ideal heel height for a nighttime boot.

UO Faux Leather Block Heel Chelsea Boot ($119)

I actually think I need to buy these immediately.

Nicole Saldana Christina Boot in Black ($401)

If I had these comfortable-looking boots, I'd wear them every day.

Wandler Isa Leather Ankle Boots ($720)

Let's be real—I already purchased these.

H&M Ankle Boots ($55)

I love the leather-and-fabric combo.

Freda Salvador Charm Reptile Embossed Bootie ($495)

I already own these too, but I got so many complements on them recently that I had to share.

Zara Heeled Leather Square Toe Ankle Boots ($169)

I blame my colleague Lauren for making me want these.

Reformation Virginia Boot ($268)

Ref would have the perfect casual heeled boot.

Schutz Maryana Tall Boots ($290)

Yes, knee boots are undeniably back.

Khaite Leather Ankle Boots ($890)

Everything from Khaite just screams effortlessly cool.

Proenza Schouler Stitch Boots ($795)

These are heavily in my rotation at the moment.

Stuart Weitzman The McKenzee Boot ($595)

Of course, you can never go wrong with Stuart Weitzman.

Dr. Martens 2976 Quad FL Boots ($190)

Did I just find the perfect winter boot?

Topshop Halia Leather Black Square Toe Boots ($150)

While I wouldn't suggest wearing these in a rainstorm, the treated look of this leather suggests that they are more durable and water-resistant than your average pair.