Ankle boots and I have a love-hate relationship. They are undoubtedly one of my favourite essential shoe styles, especially for the colder months, but year after year I struggle to find the Goldilocks pair—the ones that are just right. Styles with tall heels look amazing and always instil a certain type of sartorial confidence, but if I'm honest, I'm too much of a wimp to commit to a day of walking around in towering heels. Plus, we can all agree that the higher the boot, the more uncomfortable they tend to be, right? And while a flat of chunky sole boot is certainly more practical, they don't feel elevated enough to wear for every occasion. It's a catch-22, boot edition.
Enter, this season's latest trending boot style: the low-heel ankle boot. Understatedly chic and endlessly versatile, this is the style that promises to solve the ankle boot problem.
Now a bona fide trending shoe style that is set to go nowehere this year, there are plenty of different versions to choose from, and at a price point to suit every budget. Thanks to Toteme and The Row, ultra-thin kitten heel boots with a fitted silhouette are top of the tastemaker wish list and have been adapted for high street prices by the likes of COS and M&S. Styled with straight leg jeans, they add the perfect polished finish to an otherwise casual, easy outfit.
But if you're after something a little sturdier, there are plenty of chunky heel options, too. You can swap the Scandi minimalism of the kitten heel style for a Western-inspired cowboy ankle boot, courtesy of Isabel Marant or Free People. And then there's always the classic block heel, which will work with so many outfits and never go out of style. Whatever your aesthetic, I've found the best low-heel ankle boots for every budget.
BEST HIGH-STREET LOW-HEEL ANKLE BOOTS:
Of course COS makes a gorgeously minimalist pair of low-heel boots.
These would work equally well with long dresses and jeans.
Perfect for those who like a chunkier heel.
These could easily pass for designer.
I'd style these with tailored trousers for an elegant, elevated look.
This tone is such a great choice for taking you from winter to spring.
Suede may be a risky choice for winter wear, but these just look too good to resist.
Ankle boots with a hint of Western flair? I'm sold.
Unbelievably chic. Wear with jeans, dresses, tailored trousers—these will go with practically everything.
The colour, the Western details, the low heel—it's all so good.
BEST DESIGNER LOW-HEEL ANKLE BOOTS:
I've spotted so many influencers wearing these—grab a pair before they sell out again.
These boots have become a cult fashion item for good reason.
Such a practical, versatile boot style.
There's something about the patent croc-effect leather that's just so luxe.
Trust me—these understated cowboy ankle boots will never go out of style.
This would look so chic with a flowy maxi skirt or dress.
I love the Seventies vibe of these Gucci boots with the iconic horsebit hardware.
Imagine how good these would look with white jeans?
These exude effortless cool.
These boots will earn you serious fashion points.
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