If you’re wondering which accessories to invest in to tick off those autumn trends for 2021, then I have two words for you: ankle boots. They are high on the sartorial agenda, and it’s easy to see why. Whether it’s slimline silhouettes silhouettes, or chunky track sole boots, the best ankle boots will adapt themselves seamlessly to your existing wardrobe and elevate any outfit, from the most basic of knitted tracksuits to the chicest winter dresses.
Though we may still be in summer (though the weather begs to differ), they’re still a great footwear option for that tricky summer to winter transition, especially when teamed with short linen suits or summer dresses.
As always, the catwalk is a great source of inspiration when it comes to your new season wardrobe, and this season was no exception, even though most designers presented their collections digitally.
Cowboy boots, having had a bit of a bad rep in recent seasons, are now officially back in fashion, as seen as Isabel Marant and Celine, and we want in. Team them with oversized jeans and a blazer for that ultimate French girl chic.
Feel-good dressing is a main trend for AW21 and it extends to your feet. Now that we’re allowed to resume our social life, it’s all about dressing for the part. Think sequinned boots and metallic pointy toes with sky high heels – look to Balenciaga and Louis Vuitton for inspiration.
That said, if you’re after a simpler style, don’t worry: the chunky track sole boot is going nowhere. In fact, the likes of MatchesFashion and Net-A-Porter have already re-stocked bestselling boots from Prada, The Row and Balenciaga, so you’re all sorted.
If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, the high street is full of them, from ARKET to Zara and H&M. For a slightly chicer silhouette, look for Chelsea ankle boots, which never go out of style (and for even more styles, shop my edit of the best winter boots).
ISABEL MARANT Darizo suede ankle boots, £535 at Net-A-Porter
Isabel Marant champions Western style like no other and these boots really drive home that point. This 'Darizo' pair is made from versatile brown suede detailed with distinctly shaped paneling and subtle embroidery along the pointed toe.
Duck Lace-Up Boots Redbole, £460 at Manu Atelier
This style is one of Manu's best sellers, and for good reason. They are super comfy as well as stylish and just put a smile on your face. I love this red iteration for AW21.
Leather Chelsea boots, £79.99 at H&M
The high-street chain gives us a fresh take on Chelsea boots this season with these beige delights.
GANNI Black Chunky Leather Chelsea Boots, £345 at Browns
These black GANNI chunky leather Chelsea boots feature a round cap toe, elastic inserts, pull tabs at the front and back, and chunky ridged rubber sole. An editor favourite.
Pink form boot, £495 at Dear Frances
Smooth, sculptural and as soft as butter, this statement ankle boot features a distinctive curved block heel, back zip closure and a unique asymmetric toe shape.
LEATHER HIGH-HEEL ANKLE BOOTS, £99.99 at ZARA
These pointy boots also come in a trend-forward lilac shade.
Crepe Sole Leather Boots, £175 at ARKET
Crafted from smooth leather that has undergone a chrome-free tanning process, these clean-look boots are made in Portugal.
aeyde Brown Kate 75 Embossed Leather Ankle Boots, £345 at Browns
These western-style brown aeyde Katie 75 embossed leather ankle boots are constructed in Italy and feature a pointed toe, side panels with stitch detailing, rear pull tab and a contrasting red stitch on the counter.
SILHOUETTE ANKLE BOOTS, £1,320 at LOUIS VUITTON
One of Louis Vuitton's emblematic styles, the Silhouette Ankle Boots are revisited this season in black and white Monogram velvet for an effect that is both graphic and feminine. This model is known for its distinctive heel in the shape of a Monogram Flower.
Chunky Sole Lace Up Biker Boot, £155 at Dune
The chunky cleated sole and the upper of this cream boot are constructed in the same colour to give it a modern effect.
