It’s that time of year again…the leaves are changing colour, the nights are drawing in and we need a practical but stylish solution to the question of what to wear on our feet.
Welly boots have their place, of course – but for sophisticated alternatives, read on.
Biker boots
Once the domain of ‘bad boys’ and genuine bikers, the chunky, sturdy appeal of a biker boot now transcends seasons and age groups.
Biker boots are easy and practical to wear. Their flat, and frequently chunky soles, provide comfort and support, while their design – usually featuring buckles and zips – and role in fashion history mean that they give an edge to even more conservative looks. For instance, they look great with floaty florals – or with long, free-form animal prints.
They’re also great with jeans – and in the colder months, when you really want a chunky sole and a pair of thick socks between you and the damp ground, or wet grass, they serve a cosy, as well as a stylish, purpose. They’re also available in a range of lengths, giving you greater choice.
Let’s take a look at some of the best available this season.
Parked Harness Leather Biker Boots
Dune £160
This take on the biker boot is ideal for the mature woman, as the slight heel and the shaping through the toe give a more classic look. Made from premium leather, and embellished with metal details, these boots are bound to see you through the chillier months.
Rodeo Drive Boots
Steve Madden, £250
The longer length, the option of washed grey soft leather and minimal hardware give these boots an elegance possibly not always associated with a biker style. They’d look equally stylish worn over jeans or under a dress, slipping on without any closures or fastenings.
Mint Velvet Leather Biker Boots
Next, £159
The side zip closure on these boots will be welcome to those with a high instep, or who struggle to pull fastening-free shoes on. Those who prefer gold over silver might also like that the hardware is gold-toned. Made from 100% leather, these boots are bound to go the distance, with plenty of ‘give’ for comfort.
Over-the-knee boots
Why should men have all the fun? Over-the-knee (OTK) boots were originally created as men’s riding boots in the 15th century, but by the 20th century, people had cottoned on to what a stylish addition they made to a woman’s wardrobe – not to mention keeping your knees that bit warmer when the mercury drops.
Styling is everything, of course – while many younger women might enjoy wearing their OTK boots over bare legs with short skirts or dresses, this may not be a look that a mature woman is comfortable with. No problem – these boots look great over jeans and leggings, as well as under skirts and dresses.
Wearing tights will also make a difference to how comfortable you feel in OTK boots – they can feel a little tricky to bare flesh in, so try layering yours over opaques if you choose to wear them with something other than trousers.
Mature women may also feel more confident wearing a flatter heel – or a solid, rather than spiky one if looking to add height.
Unlike biker boots, which tend to look best when crafted from leather, OTK boots look great whether they’re made of soft, supple suede or buttery leathery – giving you even more choice regarding texture and style.
Here are some of our current OTK picks.
5050 Bold boot
Stuart Weitzman, £750
Although also available in Stone and Walnut, it’s the Rosewood that really has our pulses racing – that deep burgundy colour is perfect for the colder weather, bringing a much-needed pop of colour to winter and blending harmoniously with the brilliance of Autumn.
Other bonuses? The pull-on style features a stretch back, to suit most calf shapes and sizes, and the block heel means that these boots are quite literally made for walking.
They’re also crafted by artisans in Spain out of luxurious, high-end suede, so although the price tag is high, you know you’re getting quality for your money.
Long Tall Sally Black Stretch Boots
Next, £70
As a more affordable way into the OTK look, these boots are a great option for the taller woman. The lower price tag means you get a textile upper, rather than leather or suede, but they’re still a stylish option with their metallic trim.
The low heel and zip opening also signify comfort, both when putting them on and when standing or walking for periods of time. All in all, a great and relatively inexpensive addition to your autumn/ winter wardrobe.
Sirenna Black OTK Boots
Dune, £175
For those who want their OTK knee look to come with the elevated glamour of a heel and a shaped toe, these leather boots from Dune could be just the ticket. They’re available in sizes 3-8, and the heel height is 7cm: just enough to add some height without being dizzying.
Importantly, the heel is still solid, rather than spiky, providing stability and comfort. Additionally, the discreet zip fastening comes halfway up the calf, making these boots a great choice for those with a high instep.
Zara OTK High Heel Leather Boots
Zara, £149
Zara has named this colourway ‘vanilla yellow’ which doesn’t quite capture how lovely they are for Autumn weather – but, in any case, they encapsulate style and a warm, autumnal hue.
The block heel, rounded toe and zip fastening all spell comfort, while the opening at the back of the boot allows increased movement, as well as fitting a range of leg sizes. The stitching and panelling also create an extra-elegant look.
Ankle boots
Wonderfully versatile, ankle boots have been worn by women since the early 19th century, although – being made of such fabrics as silk and satin – were probably not suited to a busy, 21st-century lifestyle.
Today, ankle boots tend to be versatile and hard-wearing, made from suede or leather, as well as synthetic versions. They’re also the perfect ‘in-between’ – just that bit smarter than trainers, and with more coverage than pumps or ballet flats.
Here are some of the best to be found this season.
M&S Leather Cowboy Block Heel Boots
Marks and Spencer, £69
These ankle boots combine a bit of Western flair with the classic ankle boot, tapping into two trends at once. That’s just one thing to love about them: another is the price point, which demonstrates great value, considering these boots are made from real leather.
There’s also the block heel, which provides height without sacrificing comfort – plus, the shaped toe will help to elongate the appearance of the legs.
Whether styled with jeans, a dress or a skirt, these boots represent a great buy and could continue to be worn beyond the colder months and well into spring.
Andria Lace-up Ankle Boots
Schuh, £42
For those who want extra comfort and a utilitarian look, these chunky boots are ideal. Again, they’d look great paired with trousers or dresses, with their sturdiness giving your outfits an edginess.
The lace-up style adds to the practical appearance of these boots, and the chunky rubber sole will provide extra warmth and protection from the cold ground.
The upper is made of PU, so they’re vegan-friendly too.
H&M Heeled Boots
H&M, £37.99
Available in three different colours, these ankle boots represent a dressier option, with their spindly heel and pointed toe. They’d look great worn with black trousers for the evening, or simply for a more formal daytime outfit. They could also be styled with a dress, giving it a more contemporary look.
Again, they’re not made from leather, which is reflected in the very affordable price point.
Lake Side Zip Faux Fur Lined Boot
Russell & Bromley, £345
The higher price point of these boots means they’re an investment purchase, but will see you through season after season of cold weather.
Available in both leather and suede, they feature a 3cm heel for just that little extra bit of height, while the zipper fastening allows for ease when putting on or taking off. The rounded tag and tassel feature are fun too.
Made in Italy from genuine calf leather, the faux fur lining will keep your feet deliciously warm, while the traction sole will keep your step steady on sometimes-slippery surfaces.
Classic knee boots
The 70s were an iconic era for fashion and music – no wonder elements from that period keep coming back, season after season, embracing that eclectic, boho vibe.
Knee-high boots serve so many purposes. As well as looking stylish, they keep your legs warm – a bonus, when the temperature dips! They also look great whether worn over or under an outfit.
For example, jeans tucked into knee-length boots is a style staple that never gets old – while long boots under a dress or skirt make their appearance when you’re seated with your legs crossed. It’s like a flash of leg without showing skin and, as such, very sophisticated and alluring.
Since this style of boot has been around for so long, you might get lucky enough to grab a pair in great condition and the right size from a charity shop or second-hand shopping site: either way, read on for inspiration.
Phoebe L Calf Leather Knee Boots
Jones Bootmaker, £190
Available in black and tan, the higher price tag on these boots comes with assurance that you can find the calf size to suit you, as well as foot sizes ranging from 3-8.
The buckle detailing gives these boots a stylish equestrian slant, while the stitching and panelling create interest in the timeless design. Additionally, the low (5cm) heel adds height without straining the calf muscles.
The fact that the boot is lower at the back than at the front also means it will be easier to wear over jeans and leggings, reducing bunching. A true investment purchase that you’ll wear year after year.
Recycled Stretch Calf Boots with Heel
La Redoute, £80
You can give your eco-halo a bit of a shine-up with these boots since the uppers are made from 100% recycled polyester. They also have a zip opening on the inner leg, making them easier to put on and take off.
A 9cm heel provides loads of height, but its satisfying blockiness means that you’re likely to feel stable and secure when you’re walking – plus, the almond-shaped toe adds an elegant and leg-lengthening look.
Available in black or brown, these boots are made to be stylish, comfortable, and affordable.
Public Desire Black Leather-Look Knee High Cowboy Boots
New Look, £59.99
Combining the appeal of a Western look with a classic knee-high boot, these leather-look beauties feature contrast embroidery for a bold style statement.
The low block heel ensures comfort without strain on the calves or ankles, even while the pointed toe helps to make legs look longer and slimmer.
The pull tabs on either side at the top add a nice design flourish too – a nod to cowgirl style while keeping things elegant.
Karamel Knee High Block Heel Boots
Office, £115
The deep brown leather of these boots is so 70s that it makes you want to burst out into a Carly Simons song!
Available in sizes 3 to 9, these boots really have something for everyone – and for every occasion. Beautiful stitching, a zip fastening running the entire length of the boot, a block heel and a roomy, but shaped toe.
They’re also available in two types of black – shiny and matte – but we’re just a bit smitten with the brown for all the autumnal feels.
Final thoughts …
As difficult as it may feel to put away the flip-flops and sandals when the leaves start to crunch underfoot, there’s a whole world of comfortable, flattering and warmth-enhancing boots out there!
Whatever your preferred style, heel height or calf width, some careful shopping around should make sure that you have footwear that pairs beautifully with your autumn/winter wardrobe, and that it’s stylish and flattering.
Yes, boots tend to be more expensive than summer shoes, but that’s partly because there is – out of necessity – more material involved. If you’re looking to buy genuine leather (which is pricier than its look-alike counterparts), be sure to buy a style of boot that you think you’ll be happy wearing for years to come.
And if you want to experiment with different looks and lengths? Budget permitting, try buying leather-look boots in a variety of styles and play around with what you feel comfortable with.
Chances are, you’ll settle on something that makes you happy and be able to decide on an investment purchase next time the need for autumn/ winter shoes arises.
What’s your favourite winter boot style? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below.