With summer in the rearview mirror, the heavier-duty section of your shoedrobe is about to have its moment. But while you might be able to eke out bare ankles for a few final weeks, there'll come a time when there's nothing for it but to pull on a boot.
Many of us will be welcoming the return to a sturdy track-sole, not to mention ankle support, but if you're not used to being "suited and booted" during the colder months, the catwalks have plenty of inspiration before you go shopping.
It's no understatement to say that for AW25, there really is a boot to suit all style personalities. Want something that's practical for the countryside but will still cut in the mustard in the city? Missoni's two-tone stomper should be on your mood board. How about a party boot that's pleasingly after hours-appropriate? McQueen's witchy lace-up has got your name on it (ditto the studded designs at Isabel Marant).
Keep scrolling to see and shop the five boot trends we're bookmarking.
Slick Knee-High Boots
Miu Miu AW25
Its no surprise that this autumn, the hero of the boot world is undoubtedly the knee-high, which appeared on almost every catwalk that featured the footwear. Miu Miu's was an instant talking point because of its buckles, scrunched leather and generally slick appearance that paired with rather bookish separates. Look for stiletto heels, pointed toes or anything that gestures at something a little sharper, spikier, sexier. You know you want to.
Massimo Dutti is our go-to for High Street footwear that looks designer - case-in-point are these distressed leather knee-high boots.
Toteme's croc knee-high boots sell out every winter, so if you want a pair you better be quick.
Me+Em's would be my pick for a knee-high boot that will pair seamlessly with any office-bound outfit this autumn.
Italian label Paris Texas are our go-to for slick pointy boots. This snake print will work styled with a neutral palette as much as it will do with colour.
Ferragamo's boot won't cleave to your calf but it will look fabulous with every type of skirt, from minis to midis to maxis.
Scrunched Thigh-High Boots
Balmain AW25
The thigh-high boot is often a hard-sell—it's just a lot of boot—but we're encouraged by the versions at Balmain, which were pleasingly scrunched instead of suctioned. With a bit more wiggle room, you could even wear them with a pair of straight-leg jeans (imagine!) or leave them to slouch under a flaring denim skirt. The possibilities are endless with over-the-knees. Trust us.
Ba&sh's thigh-thigh boot would look trés chic with a pair of indigo jeans tucked inside (don't knock it until you've tried it).
The suede version of the over-the-knee boot is particularly tempting—and offers a new way to explore the fabric this autumn.
Arket has come up trumps with its satin thigh-high, which has a micro kitten heel for practicality. What more could you want?
These suede boots in goes-with-everything tan will make getting dressed a whole lot easier this winter.
For an "everyday" pair of over-the-knees, you couldn't do better than Aeyde's.
Studded Ankle Boots
Isabel Marant AW25
Studded ballet flats have dominated the group chat for many (many) seasons but for autumn, studded boots will vie for the attention of magpies. And why not? Isabel Marant's heeled version couldn't be more perfect for, whisper it, party season, especially if paired with leather and a stretch of bare leg.
H&M's studded ankle boot certainly isn't subtle, although it's flat silhouette certainly earns points for comfort.
Studded and featuring a pearl-embellished ankle bracelet, Isabel Marant's cool-girl version is sure to be a sell-out.
Hobbs's take on studs is perfect if you want something a bit more subtle for everyday.
These evenly-spaced studs will be the envy of all your friends wearing plain black ankle boots.
Patent and studded, these boots are guaranteed to earn appreciative glances.
Countryside Boots
Missoni AW25
Missoni sent boots down its catwalk that were a cross between a leather stomper and the kind of footwear you'd want for a countryside walk—flat, sturdy and sensible. Channel the vibe—without leaving the city if you so wish—with a shearling-trimmed pair to keep the foot snug or something fit-for-purpose from Barbour.
Toteme's shearling boot will feel like a hug for your foot (in a great way) this winter.
Wrap up for wintery walks with Stuart Weitzman's shearling-lined ankle boots.
The Nanette boots by British label Grenson are on our wish list this winter. This timeless style means you will wear them for witners to come.
Blundstone is the brand for comfortable boots that will go the distance, and this pull-on pair couldn't be easier to incorporate into your shoedrobe.
The chunky rubber sole of Gucci's Horsebit ankleboots make them perfect for everything from pounding the pavements to weekend park walks.
Winter showers call for the most stylish wellies and this pair from Burberry is at the top of our wish list.
Lace-Up Boots
McQueen AW25
Witchy boots were the foil to frou-frou gowns at McQueen, with criss-cross laces from toe to calf on this pair of ruby shoes that definitely weren't Dorothy. Believe it or not, the vibe doesn't have to be Victoriana. Instead, Vagabond's flat version pays lip service to the trend without going full goth-girl. If, however, you do want to prep your shoedrobe for Halloween (and beyond), Aeyde's has the interestingly-shaped heel and slender build you're looking for.
Aeyde's witchy boot has the ability to spice up any bottom half, from boot-leg jeans to lace slips to pinstriped trousers.
Lace up boots don't get slicker than this and the signature Jimmy Choo drop heel means they're much more stable than a classic stiletto heel.
Since taking on a new Creative Director, British label Russell & Bromley have designed some of our favourite and most comfortable shoes. This lace up pair will give last winter's outfits a new season feel.
This glossy lace-up will add sleek points to whatever you're wearing despite the lack of heel.
The slender wedge gives these lace-up boots practicality and playfulness.
