Exposed-ankle season is coming to an end, people. As temperatures dip, it’s time to bust out the boots. Boot weather, of course, is still an excellent opportunity for sartorial success. There’s nothing cooler or more versatile (or more protective against the cold) than a great pair of boots. Whether you’re in the market for a sleek knee-high style or a petite ankle-grazer, we’ve got plenty of picks. Newer to the trend cycle this season are mid calf shapes—seen on the runways of The Row and Prada—and cozy shearling-lined kicks from Miu Miu and Toteme. Lace-up styles, too, continue to be popular, especially in the form of moccasin-boot hybrids from Bally. For all of our favorite boots to shop this season, check out our edit below.
Knee-High
Whether equestrian, cowboy-inspired, or city slicker, the best knee-high boots for fall come in sumptuous fabrics and chic styles. Massimo Dutti’s Flat Leather Boots mimic the shape of a Wellington, while Proenza Schouler’s take on the ranch boot merges the western look with a polish primed for the New York City streets.
Ankle-Grazers
If you’d like a shorter design for winter, look no further. We loved Aeyde’s ’90s-leaning black leather ankle boots, as well as Dear Frances’s Cade, which provides a more sturdy step.
In-Betweens
Calf-length boots have been a street style staple (typically paired with a tea-length skirt, or a pair of cut-off shorts) for the past couple of seasons at fashion week. Why not give Loeffler Randall’s suede boots with a curved heel a shot, or The Row’s endlessly chic Nobilis riding boot?
Lace-Ups
Tap into one of the biggest shoe trends of the season with a pair of Margiela’s razor-sharp Tabi combat boots, or Bally’s Paphos Ankle Boots, which scream New England in the fall.
Toe-Toasters
Once the snow hits, you’ll want to be prepared—cozy up in these fleece-lined boots for a little extra comfort. Toteme’s black boots would pair fabulously with an ankle-length coat; we also love the height (and drama) on the Miu Mius.
Biker Babe
Are you tired of hearing about sleek boot styles? We’re here for you. Stuart Weitzman is not playing around with the heft of his biker boot, while Manolo Blahnik offers a city-street version that promotes comfort.
Climbing Higher...
Knee-high not high enough for you? Over-the-knee designs spelled luxury on the fall 2024 runways—and our picks include a Lemaire design with a round heel, plus a simply perfect leather Bottega Veneta boot.