I don’t need to tell you that boot season is officially in full swing (and has been for a while). After all, we're in December, if you can believe it! However, if you’re still struggling to find the perfect pair(s), and your budget isn’t making matters any easier, today I am here to help. Not only have I rounded up 18 affordable boots that look anything but cheap, but, as I did with sweaters, I’ve also broken down the three things you should look for (or avoid) while shopping for the footwear essential on a budget. Trust me when I tell you that these tips will help you end up with the most expensive-looking pair possible (even if the price tag is anything but).
So whether you stick with just one of the below rules or want to overachieve with a pair that ticks all three boxes, just keep scrolling to learn what to look for, and, of course, shop my picks along the way.
1. Embossing
The croc-embossing trend on clothing, handbags, and shoes that has been gaining (and maintaining) steam for quite a few seasons now isn’t just luxe-looking when the price tag is high. Affordable versions of embossed items possess the same high-end quality as their designer counterparts, which makes it a great detail to look for in a boot.
2. Minimal Hardware
As my colleague, Allyson, recently pointed out, hardware is a difficult detail to do well at an affordable price, so it’s best to stay clear of shoes with any studs, chains, buckles, statement zippers, and embellishments when shopping for affordable shoes. Poorly done hardware can instantly cheapen an item, whereas minimalist styles tend to look more expensive.
3. Black
Great news for minimalists: The most expensive-looking boot color is, without a doubt, black. Whether it’s suede, leather, or fabric, affordable materials look best in dark colors, and since it doesn’t get darker than black, it’s definitely your safest bet when you don’t want to risk buying something that looks cheap.
Up next: 27 cool bags that are worth your money—even if it's just $24.
-
Spotted at JFK Airport: The Only Boot Trend TSA Won't Give You Side-Eye for WearingComfortable, stylish, and most importantly, functional.
-
Amal Clooney's Croc-Embossed Thigh-High Boots Are About to Cause a StirGuaranteed.
-
The Boot Trend Everyone With Expensive Taste Is Styling Instead of Flats or HeelsWe're here for it.
-
These Are the 7 Stylish Shoe Trends Fashion People Will Be Wearing With Jeans This SpringI see chic denim outfits in your future.
-
If a French Woman Shopped the Gap and Banana Republic Sales, These 30 Chic Picks Would Catch Her EyeOui, merci!
-
It's Official: French Women Love This Boot Style for SpringHere's how they are styling it.
-
When Sydney Sweeney and Lady Gaga Own the Exact Same Boots, You Know They're GoodGreat minds think alike.
-
I Want to Build a New Wardrobe—30 Incredibly Elegant Pieces I'm Eyeing From the Nordstrom Winter SaleBring on the chic outfits.
