Emily Ratajkowski Just Wore "Cheap" White Boots in the Chicest Way

published 5 September 2024

Emily Ratajkowski stepped out to claim her front-row seat at New York Fashion Week's Proenza Schouler show yesterday wearing an underrated and somewhat controversial shoe trend. Styling a black, pleated leather skirt and low-key sleeveless top, she diverted from a top-to-toe black look by instead selecting tall white boots.

I have to admit that I've always found white boots a little bit cheap-looking, and they've never quite been able to gain the same appreciation as their brown and black counterparts. Perhaps it's their tendency to scuff or blemish, or maybe I've been put off by their over-saturation in the '10s that saw lower-quality pairs dominate the streets. Now though, I'm pleased to see white boots enjoying a reinvention, and it's all thanks to elegant outfit styling like Ratajkowski's.

Making the case for the divisive shoe's revival, Ratajkowski selected a pair of white boots with a slightly slouched silhouette. Injecting a pop of brightness into her monochrome ensemble, she clutched Proenza Schouler's vivid red Park Leather Shoulder Bag (£1,355) and finished off the look with simple silver hoops. This, my friends, is a masterclass on how to look fashion-forward without adopting every trending aesthetic.

Now that white boots are back on the agenda, read on to shop Emily Ratajkowski's outfit, followed by our edit of the chicest white boots for autumn.

SHOP EMILY RATAJKOWSKI'S WHITE-BOOTS OUTFIT:

COS

High-Neck Sleeveless Tank Top

This lightweight top is perfect for layering throughout the summer-to-autumn transition.

ME+EM

Leather Midi Skirt

Style with knee-high boots or wear with sleek leather loafers.

COS

Pointed-Toe Leather Knee-High Boots

Such a chic pair of boots.

Proenza Schouler

Park Leather Shoulder Bag

Shop the bag that EmRata loves.

SHOP OUR EDIT OF THE BEST WHITE BOOTS:

Reformation

Gal Knee High Boot

The kitten heel adds a little height without too much discomfort.

Paris Texas

Croc-Effect Leather Knee Boots

These also come in six other shades.

Jil Sander

Leather Mid-Calf Boots

Style with jeans or wear with a flowing dress.

Sézane

Axelle Ankle Boots

These have a patent finish for a shiny effect.

ME+EM

Chiselled Toe Leather Ankle Boot

Shop these whilst they're on sale.

Charles & Keith

Lucinda Trapeze-Heel Knee-High Boots

These also come in black.

Explore More:

Natalie Munro is Who What Wear UK’s news writer. Having worked in the fashion industry since her time at university—where she obtained a BA in Journalism from University of the Arts London, Natalie's experience spans journalistic and styling roles. In the early stages of her career Natalie predominately worked on editorial shoots for fashion publications such as British Vogue, Vogue Ukraine, AnOther Magazine and Elle UK, before moving into journalism roles.

On completion of her degree she interned in the editorial team at British Vogue and later went on to freelance for the publication. Here, she developed her interest in reporting on the latest fashion news and trends. Inspired by the dynamic nature of the industry, Natalie went on to write for other lifestyle and fashion brands and publications before taking on the role as News Writer for Who What Wear.

With an interest in uncovering the latest fashion trends, Natalie takes a leading role in identifying news for Who What Wear UK. Focusing on trends on and off the runway, as well as street style and celebrity fashion, Natalie reports on a daily basis, ensuring that she remains ahead of the trends. Natalie also creates content for Who What Wear’s social channels including TikTok and Instagram on a weekly basis.