Choosing the best boots for winter is notoriously a struggle. As the foundation of autumn/winter dressing, the variety of styles to choose from is truly remarkable, but with great choice comes ever greater confusion. Your time is precious, as is your wardrobe space, so we're here to help you decide which styles are worth going for this season, and which styles are worth a skip.
Instagram is awash with excellent examples of winter boots and how to style them, from the classic Chelsea boot to studded biker boots that you can pair with practically anything (including your favourite midi dress). While there aren't any hard and fast rules when it comes to winter boot shopping, we recommend choosing comfortable, practical styles that you can wear throughout all of winter's turbulent forecast and that you can re-wear over and over again.
In terms of on-trend styles, if the AW23 runways were anything to go by, you can expect to see the classics - but with a slight update. Thigh-high boots have transformed from a skin-tight, seductive choice to a slouchier silhouette, as demonstrated by Burberry, Isabel Marant and Stella McCartney's AW23 catwalks. Gucci and Fendi were among the brands paying homage to Vivienne Westwood's punk attitude, sending models down the runway in military-style boots, and on the exact opposite end of the spectrum, are kitten heeled-boots, which also made an appearance in the ready-to-wear collections of Christopher Kane and David Koma. And, if you're a fan of the Western style, you're in luck, as it seems like cowboy boots aren't going anywhere anytime soon.
Shop the best boots for autumn/winter down below.
SHOP: The Best Boots For Women
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& other storieswww.stories.com
You can never go wrong with a classic, and the And Other Stories' chunky Chelsea boots are an all-time favourite. Available in vanilla or black, take your pick now.
on sale
paris texaswww.mytheresa.com
Paris Texas should win an award for their boots - there, we said it. This gorgeous pair of snake-print knee-highs is the ultimate statement shoe for this coming season.
aeydewww.aeyde.com
Aeyde's boots are something to marvel at, and this pair of Wayne Calf Boots is no exception. Featuring a metal ring, top cap and studded straps, Aeyde has put its own unique twist on the classic biker boot.
M&Swww.marksandspencer.com
If there's one thing we can count on Marks and Spencer for, it's to create timeless wardrobe staples we will keep reaching for. These chunky flatform ankle boots are functional at their core and a fabulous dupe for The Row's leather ankle boot...
river islandwww.riverisland.com
Talk about a statement shoe. If you love cowboy boots but want something slightly different, River Island's silver western boots in leather are all you need.
sezanewww.sezane.com
Thigh-high boots are officially a go this autumn/winter season, and Sezane's iteration may just be our favourite yet. Made from 100% leather and available in six shades (including this gorgeous taupe), add to the basket before it's too late.
zarawww.zara.com
If you're a fan of the kitten heels trend, you'll adore Zara's leather high-heels boots featuring a tiny stiletto heel. The perfect way to dress up an outfit, and also available in ecru white.
dr martenswww.drmartens.com
If you've been meaning to try a pair of Docs but aren't fully on board with the lace-up style, the platform Chelsea boots are a must-have. Not only will these add an edge to your outfit, but they will see you through autumn, winter and even spring paired with your favourite floral midi.
pradawww.prada.com
These boots have had every influencer and fashion editor in a chokehold. It doesn't get better than Prada's Monolith Brushed Leather Boots. Unique and bold, these boots embody the brand's aesthetic perfectly.
uggwww.ugg.com
You know it's winter when it's time to slip into your Uggs. Mini Uggs made a huge comeback last year, and there's no sign of the trend slowing anytime soon. Shop the classic mini in your choice of shades.
zarawww.zara.com
Zara's boot collection is better than ever this year, and we can't stop thinking about this pair. The leather knee-high boots feature a gathered ruching for an added twist on the classic knee-high.
& other storieswww.stories.com
Puffer boots were a big hit last year thanks to Loewe's famous black pair worn by Hailey Bieber, and we're certain they'll still be around this season. Shop the And Other Stories padded winter boots in chocolate brown.
pradawww.matchesfashion.com
Another Prada boot, because can you ever have enough? The nylon knee-high boots pay homage to the equestrian trend we've seen over the last few years and deserve a spot in your wardrobe as an autumn/winter staple.
mangoshop.mango.com
Beige or white boots are typically associated with spring and summer, but don't be fooled. As a neutral colour, beige boots can be worn all year round, creating a great contrast with your darker winter outfits, too.
What are the must-have boot styles for the upcoming season?
As we transition into the colder months, it's time to elevate your footwear game. The must-have boot styles for fall and winter 2023 are ankle boots with chunky heels, thigh-high boots, as well as the classic lace-up combat boots. We're also seeing a resurgence of the classic UGG boot, and thanks to Loewe's famous padded boots, puffer boots are also having a moment this season.
How can I choose a boot style that complements my body type?
Finding the perfect boot style that flatters your body type is all about balance. If you have shorter legs, opt for ankle boots with a slight heel to elongate your silhouette. If you're taller, you can pull off knee-high boots effortlessly. For curvier body types, consider wide-calf boots to ensure a comfortable fit.
Marina Avraam is the Deputy Commercial Content Editor for Grazia. Hobbies include (but not limited to) finding the best designer dupes, buying every iteration of the adidas gazelles and listening to celeb podcasts every hour of every day.