With the end of one season and the start of the next, what we're going to wear is front of mind as a fashion editor, and right now, I'm focused on Boots. Whilst summer favours lighter fabrics and barely-there silhouettes, the seasonal shift means planning for styles better suited for the cooler weather. Be it a low-lift loafer or a timeless boat shoe, "freeing the foot" is best left to a heatwave. And, personally, I’ve always found that an elegant boot is the most practical option.

Not the heavy, weather-beaten boots you dragged through February, or the shearling-lined pair that saw you through last December. The boot trends cropping up on the autumn/winter 2026 runways feel fresher, cooler and decidedly more considered than ever before. Not only are they an easy way to extend the lifespan of your warm-weather wardrobe, but they also offer that elusive combination of practicality and style. One which will make dressing for autumn all the more enticing. Whether you're interested in flat boots that go the distance or are looking for something fun to wear for party season, below I've charted the six boot trends that matter most for 2026. Trust me: these styles will still feel relevant for a good few autumns to come.

The 5 Biggest Autumn Boots Trends of 2026

1. Knees Up

Style Notes: Knee-high boots might not be new, but this season they're stretching well above the knee and up to thigh-high proportions. Pairing just as well with miniskirts as they do slim-fit jeans, this versatile silhouette is equally at home mooching around shops (well, maybe a flat-soled version) as it is embracing your inner Sienna Miller on a trip to Paris. So whether you opt for a cosy, lined pair à la Chloe or a grittier, dominatrix-esque boot c/o Isabel Marant, ultra-tall boots are head and shoulders above the rest in 2026. Sorry, ankle boots.

Shop Over-the-Knee Boots:

2. Bringing Back Boho

Style Notes: After Chemena Kamali made her runway debut as creative director for Chloé during the autumn/winter 2024 collection, modern bohemia was officially back on the agenda. How does that translate to the boot trends I hear you ask? Well, what could feel more boho than a slouchy boot? Softened silhouettes with relaxed proportions are so laid-back they're horizontal, and this elegant style is set to be everywhere this autumn.

A little bit Vivienne Westwood with a dash of Captain Hook, Sinead Gorey paired suede boots with playful argyle-print tights, giving the bohemian style noughties energy, whilst Chloé, meanwhile, kept it romantic with pretty pink princess skirts. The standout boot of the season, though, had to be Masha Popova's unique shade of moody blue: a statement all on its own.

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3. Witchy Wonders

Style Notes: If you’re after a boot with a little more pizazz, might I direct you to the wonderfully witchy boot? Less Sabrina the Teenage Witch and more Practical Magic and Hocus Pocus, this style first emerged as a microtrend during the autumn/winter 2025 shows thanks to McQueen and Ann Demeulemeester. The Victoriana-coded style featured heavily on the 2026 runways; see Prada's fanciful feathered pair for one example. Their exaggerated pointed toe, lace-(or button) up detail and corset structure make these boots decidedly spellbinding.

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4. Pretty in Print

Style Notes: Leopard, deer, python or croc: animal prints aren't going anywhere. But now, as we move into autumn 2026, the way we wear them is changing. Once synonymous with maximalism and glamorous Italian women, this season's animal print is entering its demure era. At Isabel Marant, snake, leopard and cheetah print boots were tempered with distressed red jeans and micro-shorts, giving the traditionally wild motif a deliberately undone edge. Situationist took an altogether more sculptural approach, pairing zebra-print pointed-toe boots with a sweeping black leather maxi skirt. And I’ve seen plenty of It girls (Dua Lipa) style these motifs with light-blue jeans and lightweight dresses too.

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5. In the Ring

Style Notes: If, at first glance, these flat calf boots remind you of the boxer boots worn by Michael B. Jordan in Creed, you’d be correct. A year after Alex Consani stepped out in an all-white iteration of the style at Stella McCartney, we were convinced—the once strictly functional silhouette had plenty of fashion credentials. For autumn 2026, it seems the boxing boot has officially entered the ring. Onitsuka Tiger showed a myriad of mid-leg styles in luxe snake print, whilst Lueders leaned into a more utilitarian mood with khaki-green iterations. And, always one step ahead of the curve, Miu Miu reimagined its gymnasium-inspired style with a gorgeous knee-high pair—equally suited to the gym and the streets.

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I've been living in Brooklyn for a few years now and love the personal style of everyone I pass by. I find myself asking passersby the details of their outfits, especially their shoes. This year, spring is taking a longer time than usual to hit my favorite borough, but I've been preparing anyway. I noticed during our short stint with the sun, aka Fool's Spring, boots were still everywhere.

Boots don't have to be limited to winter, but I was caught by surprise at the number of people still wearing boots. I'd assume people would wear sandals, heels, flip-flips… but then it hit me: These boot trends will be everywhere once spring has officially arrived. From moto boots to animal-print, boots will still be a major spring trend.

If you're into wearing boots for spring, keep scrolling to see outfit inspiration and shop all the trends.

Moto Boots

These boots are everywhere. My best friend and one of my neighbors has a pair. During all my café and errand stops, I keep seeing this edgy trend styled with casual outfits and leather jackets, namely. Moto boots are so back for spring.

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Slouchy Boots

Slouchy boots are so chic to me. They marry an outfit seamlessly by adding texture without having to try hard. Effortlessly cool is always the vibe we're going for in Brooklyn.

Shop Slouchy Boots

Kitten-Heel Boots

If there's one shoe I see religiously worn around my block, it's a kitten-heel boot. Since winter, it's been a major trend in NYC, and it's clearly a fan favorite for spring, too. I'm wearing my pair with shorts and a tank top for an edgy, cool-girl vibe.

Shop Kitten-Heel Boots

Animal-Print Boots

This trend is definitely for the bold and brave dressers. If you're not much of a print person, I suggest trying animal-print boots with a simple outfit like below. You can also pair them with jeans or pants and have the print as a slight pop to zhuzh up your outfit.

Shop Animal-Print Boots

Tan Boots

If you're not into white boots for spring, tan boots are the perfect alternative. This hue is a neutral that truly blends into an outfit and is also great to wear for transitional weather.

Shop Tan Boots

As the temperatures drop and the days get shorter, many of us cope by shopping for fresh pieces to add to our collections—whether it's a cozy cashmere scarf, a heavy wool coat, colored leather gloves, or the perfect pair of boots for various cold-weather outfits. Winter has its way of pushing even the most disciplined shoppers to indulge in a new seasonal wardrobe.

While there's a lot to browse, today we're focusing on women's boots, specifically the It boots that insiders are buzzing about behind the scenes. These are the pairs that fashion people are coveting, debating, and sharing links to in secret Slack channels, with paid Substack subscribers, or discreetly with a select group of loyal followers through Instagram broadcast channels.

While I may not be part of most private chats, as a fashion editor, I have a lot of insider intel about the It boots for 2025. This makes me an expert in the field. But don't worry, I'm not gatekeeping them. Instead, I compiled a list and visited various designer stores and department stores in NYC—from Toteme to Khaite and Nordstrom to Saks—to try on each style and give an honest review of whether they're worth your time and money. I considered not only size and color options but also comfort, versatility, and which styles pair best with jeans and trousers, as well as long dresses and skirts. With that said, keep scrolling to hear my thoughts on the must-have boots for fall and winter 2025 and shop them as you go.

The It Boots for Winter 2025

I've always been a big shoe person, so over the years, I've seen my fair share of styles; however, I have to say, this croc-embossed ankle boot from Toteme might just be one of the most elegant pairs I've ever come across. Croc-embossed leather is really having a moment right now, making its way into everything from handbags to outerwear and, of course, footwear, and Toteme has nailed it. The brand has taken a classic flat ankle boot silhouette and elevated it with this stunning crocodile print. While the color is technically chocolate brown, the subtle hints of black and beige woven into the pattern give it the perfect versatility, making it a neutral that pairs well with any outfit. The style is also very comfortable, especially around the ankle, where the leather is soft rather than stiff, and the design is roomy. For a sophisticated designer shoe like this, being under $1000 is a win in my book.

Size range: 35–42

Colorways: One

Sizing tip: Runs true to size

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It wouldn't be an It boot roundup without a pair from Khaite. Every fall, the New York-based ready-to-wear brand unveils a lineup of stunning boots, and while they're all undeniably elegant, there are usually one or two styles that capture that elusive It factor (think the Nevada and the Arizona). For fall/winter 2025, the Sybil boot holds that title. This style is almost sold out everywhere—and for good reason. It can only be described in three words: sculptural, hot, and sleek. Its distinct contoured heel flows seamlessly into the silhouette, complemented by a hidden zipper and the elongated pointe toe that Khaite has perfected. The glossy patent leather finish elevates the boot even further, and it's crafted from vegetable-tanned leather that will develop a natural patina over time for a rich, lived-in look. While the Sybil runs true to size, its narrow fit and tighter ankle mean that going up a half size may be ideal for those who prefer wearing thick socks and like more room.

Size range: 35–42

Colorways: Three

Tips: Runs true to size

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Staud's Wally Boots, ranging from ankle to knee-high designs, have been popular for many seasons; however, in 2025, fashion people are especially craving the knee-high style in snakeskin. Yes, the pattern is very trendy this year, and while not all designers have nailed it, Staud has.

When it comes to the silhouette, this knee-high style is a versatile choice. It can peek out below tailored trousers, complement your favorite mini skirt and tights for a night out, or tuck into your go-to jeans. But it's not just the knee-high design that makes these so desirable. It's also because that kitten heel has just enough height to boost your stature while keeping you comfortable all day. Plus, the elongated square toe adds a modern and sophisticated touch.

Size range: 35–42

Colorways: 19

Sizing tip: Runs narrow but true to size

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Another knee-high boot that's a bit more casual than The Wally is Vagabond's Kelsey boots. I'd say this style falls somewhere between a riding and a western boot. It has a polished look with a pointed toe and a high-low shaft design—higher on the outside of the calf and lower on the inside. Despite having a heel, they're comfortable enough to wear all day. I've walked in them for over 10K steps and could have gone longer. This is a pair I own and often choose when I want something easy to wear—with a minidress or when dressing up leggings and a sweater. I'll even tuck slightly-baggy jeans into them for that effortless cool-girl look.

Size range: 5–12

Colorways: Two

Sizing tip: Runs true to size

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I always like to highlight different brands in my stories, but Toteme's winter boot selection is so impressive that I had to include a second pair here. This style features a sock-like fit around the ankle, a sleek pointed toe, and a curved heel that sits closer to the middle of the shoe rather than at the back, as most do. Before trying the pair on, my sales associate warned me that the unique heel design might feel weird and different on the foot at first—and she was right. It's hard to explain the feeling until you put them on, but they did take some time to get used to as I walked around the store. However, it wouldn't be enough to hinder me from buying them, as my feet and ankles still felt stable and supported. I also want to point out that despite these not having a zipper, they're extremely easy to slip on and off. The 100% lamb leather is very supple and flexible. If you're looking for an ankle boot to wear with jeans or trousers, something that's a bit more sophisticated and will give you height, these are for you.

Size range: 5–11

Colorways: Five

Sizing tip: Runs true to size

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I've been saying this for a while now: Free People's We The Free boot selection is seriously underrated, and I'm not the only one who has noticed this. For example, I saw the Blaze Pull-On Boots online, and they immediately caught my eye because of their western-inspired design, with white contrast stitching and subtle distressing on the heels and toes. I also loved how they were a bit more casual and came up about 5 inches below the knee, making them perfect to pair with midi or maxi dresses and skirts. When I received them in the mail, I was excited because they looked just as good in person as online. I thought I might be the only one with them, but I was wrong. The following week, at a work event, I spotted a well-known fashion influencer wearing the same pair. I wasn't disappointed; it just confirmed my good taste. Since then, I've seen them more frequently on the streets of NYC and on my Instagram feed, establishing them as a must-have boot of the season.

Size range: 6–11

Colorways: Nine

Sizing tip: Runs narrow but true to size

Shop the boots:

Shop More Chic Boots for Winter

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear, fashion is our speciality. Our editors have years of industry experience, from reporting on seasonal fashion trends seen at international fashion weeks to working with some of the most recognizable names in fashion. Every item we recommend is carefully selected based on current trends, quality, and real-world wearability.

We regularly try pieces ourselves, including everything from bestselling jeans to designer shoes, speak to external experts and fashion insiders, and stay closely connected to what our readers are searching for. Our advice is grounded in expertise and has to pass our exceptional taste levels—so you can feel confident in every recommendation.

The weather across the country is cooling down, which means wardrobes are changing and people are starting to pull out their boots, coats, and pants. Instead of classic jeans, though, fashion people are now opting for leather pants and pairing them with boots. Naomi Watts is one example of someone who has recently made this style swap.

Today, while in Paris, Watts was spotted walking the streets in a leather-pants outfit. She specifically wore a cropped, baggy pair, almost like culottes, that she styled with a black bomber jacket, tall combat boots, and Valentino Garavani's Panthea shoulder bag.

On Naomi Watts: Valentino Garavani Panthea Shoulder Bag ($3800)

The British actress, set to star in the new Hulu series All's Fair, could have opted for black jeans to complete her monochromatic look, which would have looked chic. The leather pants took it to the next level, making her outfit look fresh, sophisticated, and expensive. While Watts styled them with tall combat boots, this pant style also looks great with pointed-toe ankle boots, slingbacks, and open-toe heels, as seen on the style set during Milan and Paris Fashion Week.

That said, if you're interested in refreshing your wardrobe ahead of winter, keep scrolling because we've rounded up the best leather-pants–and-boots pairings.

Get the Look

Shop Leather Pants and Boots

Fall is officially here, and there are only a few new trends that I’m falling for. I’m mainly sticking to the tried-and-true ones that we tend to overlook in our closets. One pant style, in particular, has been on my mind since I saw what Lila Moss just wore in Paris. She opted for a pair of flare pants. The trend might be considered “dated” to many, but on the contrary, it is very much back for fall 2025, and given the roomy fit from knee to ankle, they're the perfect pant style to wear with everything from ankle boots to even bulky knee boots.

Moss’s look included a pair of black boots, a vintage-inspired, leather motorcycle jacket, and a pair of black sunglasses. She looked every bit the model off duty in Paris that she is. Given that it's officially boot season, you're probably going to want to make sure your pant collection has plenty of options to pair with boots, and as Moss just proved, flare trousers are the most logical style to add to your wardrobe. So on that note, keep scrolling to shop flare pants and boots to wear with them.

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There's one shoe style I return to again and again, regardless of the season, and that's boots. Let's be honest. In the UK, a shower-free summer is never guaranteed. A cloudy morning can turn into anything, from a light mist to a full-blown downpour. Although I love flirting with trendy thong sandals and rope-soled options, a summer outfit with boots is my go-to when the temperature dips and the skies inevitably turn.

Now, I know what you're thinking: Summer styling plus shoe options equals sandals. I love a pair of sandals as much as the next person, but boots, especially when paired with warm-weather outfits, provide a level of practicality needed for British summertime. Plus, timeless boots are guaranteed to go with everything in your capsule wardrobe. That's a bonus!

It's not just us Brits who love a summer outfit with boots. Having deep dived into my social feeds, I noticed some of the most stylish dressers, from Paris and London to Copenhagen and L.A., are all booted this summer too. All that's left now is for you to pick your player! Will it be cowboy boots or a moto biker style? Traditional riding boots or classic knee-high boots? Thankfully, all styles seem to be having their moment in the sun. As for how to wear them, keep scrolling to see seven of my favorite summer outfit-and-boot pairings for the season ahead.

Summer Outfits With Boots

1. Frye Boots + Jorts + Off-the-Shoulder Tee

Style Notes: I first discovered Frye boots on American fashion-person TikTok, and I've been obsessed ever since. There's a vintage je ne sais quois to them that brings elevation to any outfit. A key rule that I try to stick to when styling jorts and boots is that it's okay to show some leg! By leaning into this look, your outfit will have a relaxed pull-on-and-go feel. These boots also work just as well with a maxi or miniskirt on cooler days as they do with a dropped-waist dress when the sun's out.

Shop the Look

2. Brown Knee-High Boots + White Linen Skirt + Striped Tee

Style Notes: At some point, I feel like we've all owned a pair of brown knee-high riding boots. They haven't been on my radar for a while, but now, they are firmly back, and I can't wait to work out multiple ways to style them. A pared-back, simple style, this silhouette perfectly balances playfulness with sophistication. With so much of your lower half covered, they'll keep you warm in cooler temperatures.

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3. Brown Moto Boots + Lace Skirt + Graphic Tee

Style Notes: When I bought my biker boots last year, I never thought that the moto trend would be as big as it is now. Easy to style, they're shoes I turn to as soon as the weather starts to grey. For a casual look, wear them tucked under jeans and with a denim jacket in the Canadian tuxedo kind of way. When it warms, just switch your bottom half for shorts! A foundational look to my off-duty wardrobe is styling these as Millie Holmes (pictured above) has, wearing these boots with a graphic tee and lace maxi skirt for a look as elevated as it is cool.

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4. Black Pointed-Toe Heeled Boots + Black Lace Skirt + Black Leather Jacket

Style Notes: An all-black look is considered chic for any occasion, and for me, Tobi Ojora absolutely aces the long-skirt-and-boot combination. The key to pulling off a long skirt with boots is to ensure the hem of your skirt falls just below the tops of your boots so no skin shows when you're standing. Finish the look with pointed-toe boots and a touch of leather via a jacket, and you've created an outfit that's as cool as it is polished.

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5. Square-Toe Boots + Bermuda Shorts

Style Notes: Some boots can feel harder to style than others. Enter square-toe biker boots. If jorts and the Gen Z aesthetic aren't your thing, these Sons of Anarchy–adjacent shoes might not seem like the obvious choice. But styled right, they can shift from tough to cool. Take a cue from Izabella Lilly (pictured above) and create contrast. Think khaki Bermuda shorts, a crisp white tee and a soft milk-brown bag to create a look that feels as casual as it does considered.

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6. Biker Boots + Ruffled Miniskirt + Scooped-Neck Vest

Style Notes: Temi Ojora's approach to moto boots is a master class in modern edge. With the boots' clompy soles and heavy buckles, this outfit combination is often seen on the festival circuit, as it creates a dressed-down take that still feels directional. If you're looking to elevate the boots even more, why not pair them with fresh white jeans, a crisp tee and a soft suede bag? Sometimes, simple really is best!

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7. Brown Boots + Broderie Skirt + Barn Jacket

Style Notes: Remember when I said boots work hard with both your summer and winter wardrobes? Chloe Butler proves just that. Pairing pieces that we gravitate towards in autumn, like a barn jacket and tall leather boots, with summer pieces such as a broderie miniskirt and striped tee means you can make your capsule wardrobe work so much harder for you. This is a smart way to extend the life of your summer wardrobe. You'll be getting more wear out of your favourite pieces, forecast be damned.

Shop the Look

Autumn is still weeks away but the style set has officially embraced it. Swapping their strappy sandals for a weather-proof shoe, the fashion crowd appears to already be honing in on a growing boot trend set to thrive next season.

With a durable sole, thick leather exterior, and long lace-up detailing (this part really separates them from their buckled moto biker-boot counterparts that have also been trending this summer), the combat boots trend conveys a hardy and tough energy that many can't resist. Already wearing them with dresses and skirts, the trend looks all the more cool when worn with the thick layers and draping trousers that the autumn season allows.

Originally designed to be worn by soldiers during combat, the boots feature a tall design that extends to or above the ankle and sits close to the skin. Utilitarian by nature, the boots have long been favoured by fashion people looking to add an instantly grungey edge to any given outfit. Combat boots were a staple part of the 1990s fashion scene, being worn with everything from parachute pants to slip dresses. And, perhaps it comes as no surprise, that a similar aesthetic is growing yet again in 2024. Sure, are a practical shoe choice that can see you through a long jaunt or a wet-weather day in comfort, but these heavy boots also act as a forever kind of choice when it comes to looking effortlessly stylish.

Luckily for us, high street and designer brands are meeting the growing demand. I stopped in my tracks when I came across H&M's buckle-embellished pair and Prada's Re-Nylon style has been on my mind for months.

More alternative than the loafer and Mary Jane trends that dominated all summer, this resurgence for combats compliments a wider shift towards "undone" and relaxed styling. Whilst I wouldn't say that combat boots are ever "out" of style, it's clear that they're having a major moment right now. Read on to discover our edit of the best styles to shop this season.

SHOP OUR EDIT OF THE BEST COMBAT BOOTS HERE:

In terms of clothing and accessories, Shopbop has everything one could want this season. From fashion director Caroline Macguire's latest finds to Who What Wear editors' picks for last-minute gifting, there are hundreds of pages to browse and almost just as much to buy. 

But as much as I would like to have hundreds of pairs of boots (or a closet that fits as many!), the truth is that the best styles can usually be worn with several looks and are made from materials that will tolerate the elements. Of course, Shopbop has plenty from which to choose, but with the holidays approaching, not everyone has time to click through every product to find the perfect fit. 

So I did it for you. Consider it an early gift! Just kidding. From chunky Chelsea boots to luxurious leather knee-high styles, I'm confident that there's at least one pair you'll want to wear regularly this winter. However, if you're eager to make a purchase, then it's time to start scrolling: The 17 best boots on Shopbop below are practically walking off the shelves! 

Our Favorite Boots at Shopbop

The only thing better than transitioning to sweater weather is when it's finally time to change shoes, swapping out sandals and sneakers for boots. One or two pairs could suffice, especially if you don't live in a place where snow is a concern. But in my experience, it takes at least three styles of boots to get through winter and fall in style. 

Chelsea boots top the list as an essential wardrobe staple because they go with everything, are easy to walk in, and look totally timeless. Invest in a well-made pair, and keep them looking pristine with shoe polish, waterproofing, and regular sole maintenance, and they'll last for seasons to come. 

Next are flat, lace-up ankle boots. These run the gamut from sturdy snow shoes to cool combat boots and can be found in an array of materials from leather to nylon. Opt for a chunky sole, or look for a combat-boot style with buckles and embellishments. It's a subtle statement shoe no matter how you wear it. 

Finally, the prettiest boots in our closets are often knee-high heeled boots. They're not always practical but are guaranteed to take any outfit to the next level. Choose a stacked heel for maximum comfort, or try out a short heel in stunning suede to wear with a mini or midi skirt. And don't forget boot inserts or hangers to help the tall shaft keep its shape while in storage. 

Ready to complete your capsule wardrobe with a new pair just in time for the holidays? We've pulled several versions of each style that demonstrate the versatility within each category. The only hard part is choosing which new boots to break in first. 

1. Knee-High Heeled Boots

 2. Flat Lace-Up Ankle Boots

3. Chelsea Boots

Finding a good pair of boots that you can wear again and again, year after year, and trend after trend, is harder than you might think. For starters, boots aren't built like they once were, and if you live in a place with varying climates throughout the year, it's difficult to keep your footwear from getting destroyed in the snow, slush, rain, and beyond. So, when you find a pair that lasts, it's practically girl code that you have to share it, and of all the celebs I know of, no one seems as loyal to girl code as Taylor Swift.

On the Sunday evening following their appearance together at SNL's after party, Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift were spotted hand-in-hand again, this time after dinner at Waverly Inn in the West Village. For the date, Swift wore a sheer, floral-patterned Jean Paul Gaultier tee with a Balenciaga bustier underneath and a leather miniskirt, accessorizing with a Roger Vivier handbag in the color of spring 2024, according to the runways. On her feet? The Louis Vuitton ankle boots she's had since 2016, specifically during her iconic Bleachella era.

The last time we spotted the exact boots on Swift was in May of 2016, a month after she debuted her bleach-blonde bob at Coachella when she was seen leaving Anna Wintour's West Village apartment in a Louis Vuitton plaid dress and the brand's Star Trail Ankle Boots, variations of which have also been worn by the likes of Selena Gomez and Taylor Hill. To match her grungey new 'do, she wore a gray-and-black plaid Louis Vuitton midi dress from the brand's pre-fall 2016 collection and a cropped leather jacket. Her lace-up, lug-sole boots were equally appropriate for the singer's chosen aesthetic at the time. 

Below, shop 14 pairs of look-a-like boots to the ones Taylor Swift's kept in her closet for the last seven years. 

On Taylor Swift: Jean Paul Gaultier Black Fleurs Petit Grand Long-Sleeve T-Shirt ($320); Balenciaga Stretch-Jersey Bustier Top ($1850); Roger Vivier Viv Choc Bag ($3995); Louis Vuitton boots

On Taylor Swift: Louis Vuitton dress and boots; Mark Cross Grace Box ($2350)

Shop Similar Ankle Boots for Fall

From your Instagram feed to the latest runways and street style, you are guaranteed to spot a plethora of outfits with relaxed jeans this season. Baggier denim is officially having a comeback. As for how to style a pair, let's start with the shoes. When it comes to jeans, you can wear them with just about any shoe style, but there are a few shoe trends, in particular, that we have spotted fashion editors and celebrities pairing with relaxed denim.

One of the shoe trends is undeniably a pair of throwback sneakers. We're talking about Adidas Sambas and Adidas Gazelles as well as '80s-era New Balance kicks. These create a casual-cool vibe. If you're wanting to dress up the roomy jeans, then reach for a sleek pair of pumps. Keep scrolling to check out all three shoe trends, plus some outfit inspiration and our top picks for getting each look.

1. Pointed-Toe Heels

Senior market editor Judith Jones paired her collared top and baggy jeans with white pointed-toe pumps.

Dua Lipa was spotted on the streets of NYC in a backward cap, a black leather blazer, relaxed jeans, and Gucci pointed-toe pumps.

Our own Lauren Eggertsen wore her baggy light-wash jeans with vintage printed Manolo Blahnik pumps.

Hailey Bieber is party ready with her glitzy top, furry coat, baggy jeans, and studded white Balenciaga pumps.

Associate editor Sierra Mayhew goes classic with a black turtleneck sweater, relaxed jeans, and black pointed-toe heels.

2. Throwback Sneakers

Laura Harrier is downtown cool in a black leather jacket, a white tank top, belted relaxed jeans, and New Balance sneakers.

Judith shows us a great denim-on-denim look with popular Adidas sneakers.

Editor Eliza Huber is matchy-matchy with a friend—both in relaxed jeans and cool sneakers.

Model Elsa Hosk paired her extra-baggy jeans with New Balance 550s.

Here, again, is Eliza in another relaxed-jeans-and-sneakers combo.

3. Lug-Sole Shoes

Bieber wore a pair of sleek lug-sole boots with her baggy jeans and leather jacket.

Editor Anna LaPlaca shows off her Instagram-worthy outfit—a black leather jacket, a floral-printed top, relaxed jeans, and chunky lug-sole boots.

Sierra is winter ready with a great leather jacket, stylish slouchy jeans, and tan lug-sole boots.

Kylie Jenner stepped out in a classic long coat, a peekaboo top, relaxed jeans, and Prada lug-sole shoes.

Hosk keeps things casual in a cropped white T-shirt, baggy jeans, and black lug-sole boots.

Shop Our Top Relaxed-Denim Picks

Next up: I'm Gutting My Closet and Saying Goodbye to These Basics (But I'm Adding These)

Do you remember the first time you slipped your foot into a pair of thick-soled, high-top leather boots? Was it an aha moment? Did you feel totally badass? I certainly did.

I got my first pair of Dr. Martens in the '90s and have been a devout fan ever since, treasuring my well-worn boots season after season while adding to my collection when there is a new style I simply cannot resist. I share this freely, as I know many fashion-industry peers feel the same. 

In case this is your first encounter with the iconic British brand, it's important to know that this boot is backed up by over a century of consumer satisfaction and cult-classic status. In fact, the company, which traces its roots back to the early 1900s, was originally favored by postmen and factory workers in the UK and cost just £2 in the 1960s (roughly $30 today). 

Although prices have increased appropriately over time, the distinctive air-cushioned sole and yellow stitching remain the same. Moreover, the quality craftsmanship of each shoe holds true—if my feet hadn't grown, I'm certain I'd still be wearing my very first pair—which is why Dr. Martens continue to be found in wardrobes around the world. 

When looking for the best boots, are you searching for a versatile, reliable pair? Start here: Dr. Martens is always topping the lists of the best combat boots. Accordingly, we've identified the best Dr. Martens boots plus some outfit inspo to get your search started on the right foot. 

1. Dr. Martens 1460 Pascal Boots

2. Dr. Martens Jadon Boots

3. Dr. Martens 2976 Chelsea Boots

4. Dr. Martens Sinclair Booties

5. Dr. Martens Rometty Platform Chelsea Boots

Dr. Martens Outfit Ideas

Extra points for highlighting your Dr. Martens with visible socks. 

For a Gen Z look, try a miniskirt with a mesh printed top. 

May I offer you another variation on the printed mesh look?

For the depths of winter, this pattern-clashing look is supreme. 

Dr. Martens boots are also ideal for travel days. 

Next, Fashion People Are All About Dr. Martens—Here's How to Style Them Now

Lately, I can’t help but have my eye on fall fashion. Not only am I looking forward to the cooler weather, but I'm particularly excited about the great pieces that come along with it. Sure, chic coats, stylish sweaters, and hoodies are all in focus, but really great boots are what I'm most interested in at the moment—especially a splurge-worthy designer combat boot.

In the past, combat boots were pretty straightforward. They commonly came in simple, black, laced-up designs, but now more than ever, the selections offer a variety of details to satisfy just about any personal style. If you're looking for an edgier pair, there are sleek picks with fashion-forward touches like bold stitching. If you're looking for something trendy, then a great lug-sole pair is your best bet. Going for something more classic? A pared-down style will always be a go-to.

Scroll on to shop 32 of my top designer combat boot picks to see which pair speaks to you the most. You'll be wearing these investment shoes for many more seasons to come.

Black Combat Boots

Neutral Combat Boots

Laceless Combat Boots

Next Up: 5 Fall Trends We Won't Buy This Year and 4 We're Already Shopping