Boot weather is upon us, and the annual decision of which pair to go for just doesn't get any easier. For the last couple of years, the stomper ankle boot stepped on the toes of every other style going (thanks to Bottega Veneta). Now, a new boot has been given the instant seal of approval from fashion editors and influencers alike. Meet the flat knee-high boot, AKA, your new best friend.
Knee-high boots haven't always been for everyone, with the heel heights sometimes being a little too high and the fit around the calf too baggy or too tight. The low-heel (/no-heel) version, however, is here to save the day.
Making a strong case for the flat boot style is creative director Jen Azoulay, who wore a pair with a tiny heel from Chanel. If your budget doesn't stretch that far, fear not, there are plenty of other options. Stylist Erica Davies, in fact, has just launched a brand new collection of boots with John Lewis & Partners - and they're rather special. Each pair is specifically made to have a wider calf to make knee-high boots more inclusive for all.
If you still love the stomper, the good news is that chunky thick-tread pairs are everywhere. Alohas has a khaki knee-high iteration ready for winter walks. Russell & Bromley has a knee-high snake-print (hear us out!) style that is easy to slip on, thanks to the elastic sides.
Then there's the classic rider style that the likes of fashion influencer Sara Flaaen Licius (below) approves of. The easy-to-walk-in style is timeless, wearable and, as you can see, works a treat with minidresses.
No need to stick to classic black or tan pairs either. Renia Jazdzyk, the influencer behind @venswifestyle, wore these glitter boots (Bottega Veneta) with a printed polo neck and LBD (Prada). One word: wow. Made to make a statement, we've also found some fun styles that'll liven up the most simple of looks (Bottega Veneta's pair also comes in yellow, FYI).
Which ever boot style you go for – from Chelsea and stomper to lace-up – we've found the best flat knee-high boots that you're guaranteed to wear on heavy rotation this year - and beyond.
SHOP: Best Flat Knee-High Boots
These sleek leather boots are available in sizes 2-9. Go, go, go!
Spanish brand Alohas works on a pre-order basis to avoid waste. Put an order in for this chunky pair ASAP.
Creating a boot collection with John Lewis & Partners, stylist Erica Davies has made boots that are bigger around the calf area. Finally!
The Dear Frances new-season boots have just dropped online, and boy are you in for a treat. This strap rider boot style also comes in four other colours.
It's the contrast stitching for us. Looking way more expensive than they are, this Oasis pair also comes in tan and beige.
The classic Chelsea boot has an epic new look thanks to Russell & Bromley. Imagine this snake-print style with a knitted dress and trench coat.
Fresh in from Vagabond are these chunky, stomper boots that'll see you through winters for years to come.
Ganni, Knee-High Chelsea Boots, £441 at Farfetch
New-season Ganni never disappoints and these cool-girl boots are bound to be the next cult buy.
The elevated wellie boot doesn't get much better than Bottega Veneta's Puddle. You'll be ready for the Great British downpours.
Perfect for upcoming winter walks, these thick thread boots are easy to pull on and off with the elastic side panels.
Totême, Leather Knee High Boots, £710 at Mytheresa
Trust Tôteme to make a glossy pair of knee-highs you'll love forever. Try them out with a midi dress and knit vest combo.
Kurt Geiger, Bird Knee Lace Up Boot, £229
The laces will allow you to adjust the fit, plus the side zip will mean you don't have to unlace every time. Perfect.
A buttery soft leather, this flat boot is the one to wear with a top-to-toe tonal outfit. Trust us, it works.
With a foam insole, these uber comfy boots will be a winter wonder buy. And they're under £70!
Add these to a floral-print midi dress and they'll take it straight into autumn territory.
The black version of this wide-brim boot has already nearly sold out online, no doubt these will have the same fate.