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).
Leather Chelsea Boots, £86 at Dune London
This classic pair of Chelsea boots combines durable leather with a chunky rubberised sole. Combining comfort with modern day styling they feature elasticated inserts and pull tab detailing.
GUCCI GG Marmont canvas and leather ankle boots, £865 at MatchesFashion
Uniting heritage codes with an outdoors edge, Gucci's black leather ankle boots are made from canvas with the iconic GG Marmont quilting on the ankle.
Anna Field Lace-up ankle boots, £23.24 at Zalando
These brown faux leather lace-up boots are a great budget-friendly option.
Heeled Leather Ankle Boots, £160 at Boden
These statement ankle boots are a footwear fusion – of comfort and modern details, that is. Deep grooves on the chunky soles provide reliable support and make this pair hard-wearing.
THE ROW Town leather ankle boots, £1,200 at Net-A-Porter
The Row's 'Town' boots have a sock-like silhouette and minimalistic design, making them both comfortable and versatile. They've been crafted in Italy from buttery soft leather and set on coated rubber soles.
Platform leather ankle boots, £79.99 at MANGO
Calling all YK2 fashion lovers. These boots are giving me all the 00s vibes.
Pointed Statement Heel Boot, £325 at Russell & Bromley
Crafted in Spain from luxuriously soft materials, this leather lined boot epitomises party dressing with a modern twist.
Chunky ankle boots, £79.99 at H&M
These chunky lace-up boots are bang on trend for autumn/winter, plus the elevated sole guarantees their durability.
Molly Suede Boots, £340 at Zadig & Voltaire
These suede boots will satisfy all your western fantasies.
Amina Muaddi Black Pernille 95 Leather Wedge Boots, £1,020 at Browns
These black Amina Muaddi Pernille 95 leather wedge boots are crafted in Italy. Set on a 95 mm transparent wedge heel, they feature a pointed toe, side zip fastening and leather sole. One heck of a statement.
