Polished yet versatile, grown-up yet comfortable, knee-high boots are surely the Holy Grail in the autumn shoe stakes. With a history that dates back over six decades (more if you include military uniform), this is the sort of wardrobe staple that you know you'll be wearing from your 20s right into your 60s and beyond. I bought a pair from Zara two years ago, and they were all I wore to work last winter, whether it was with a printed dress, floaty midi skirt or wide-leg jeans. They instantly elevated any outfit while still keeping me warm and my feet dry during an arctic January. I honestly could not live without them.
Perfect for both work and play, there are so many ways to spin this trend. Fancy bringing out the '70s vibes? Buy a pair in tan leather and style them with flared jeans. For a '90s twist, go for a black suede pair worn over skinny jeans à la Katherine Ormerod. So many options, so little time. Trust us—knee-high boots are the new season saviours you'll return to year after year (just ask Kate Middleton). Scroll down to see five easy ways to style knee-high boots this autumn.
Tan Leather Co-Ord + Snake-Print Boots
Style Notes: If your outfit is in need of a lift then try a pair of snake-print boots. Ellie from Slip Into Style uses hers to add interest to a leather midi skirt and shirt.
SHOP THE LOOK
'60s Skirt Suit + White Boots
Style Notes: The '60s are a clear source of inspiration for Hannah Stefansson's cute co-ord, and we love how she's added white tights. Get her look with Mango's new-season green checked skirt suit, which would look equally good with tan boots, FYI.
SHOP THE LOOK
Midi Dress + Oversized Jumper + Pointed Boots
Style Notes: Knee-high boots are perfect for making your summer frock work for the autumn months. This showgoer keeps things practical by adding an oversized roll-neck knit and blazer.
SHOP THE LOOK
Related: 15 Spring Dresses From Finery, Whistles and Arket That You Can Wear Now
Checked Separates + Neutral Blazer + White Boots
Style Notes: If you weren't sure whether knee-high boots would work over printed trousers, then just check out Nnenna Echem's checkered look. Our takeaway? Keep everything within the same colour spectrum to avoid print overkill.
SHOP THE LOOK
Tonal Separates + Suede Boots
Style Notes: If you prefer to keep things a little more simple, take your cues from Katherine Ormerod who creates a classic '90s look with suede boots, skinny jeans, a roll-neck and a pinstriped blazer.
SHOP THE LOOK
Next, the capsule beauty kit you need if you work a zillion hours a week.
-
*Not* Brown Suede: Everyone With Taste Is on the Hunt for This Dated Winter Boot TrendGrab a pair before it's sold out everywhere.
-
Every Fashion Person Has a Version of These 6 Night-Out LooksHow to reply to "What are you wearing out tonight?"
-
These $50 Old Navy Zipped Boots Are Just as Chic as the $1500 Pair I Have Been Coveting Since Last WinterThey're on sale for $30 right now.
-
Looking Chic in Cropped Jeans This Winter Means Wearing This Boot Style and ColorElizabeth Olsen would know.
-
Sorry, Crewneck Tees—in 2026, Everyone With Taste Will Be Layering Sweaters Like ThisThe recipe for a perfect winter outfit.
-
My Sister Asked Me What She Should Buy From Amazon—30 Fashionable Items I SuggestedBasically, everything on my Black Friday wish list.
-
Elizabeth Olsen's The Row Boots Are Chic, But These Ones Cost $1360 LessIt's girl math.
-
The Ashley Olsen Way to Make Simple Black Coats Look Chic, Not BoringIt's so easy, yet so impactful.
