Of all the shoes I own, my trusty boots have to be the most versatile. I reach for my chunky black lace-ups time and again, whether I'm wearing jeans, midi skirts, or a cute dress. Day or night, rain or shine, I'll probably be wearing boots, which is why I've developed a pretty good eye for spotting the best boot trends over the years. What makes a good boot trend, in my opinion, is its longevity factor; is it something we'll want to reach for again in a year's time, or even in 10? Thankfully, the trends that have caught my eye recently all carry this sense of timelessness that for me, is essential.
I can tell a certain boot style is having its moment in the sun when I see it cropping up everywhere, from the likes of high-end luxury fashion retailers to our favourite high-street shops. But sadly, we can't exactly buy into every popular boot style of the moment, so how do we decide which ones are right for us? Well, as with any shoe trend, versatility is key. If you can picture yourself wearing a pair of boots with at least half of your wardrobe, then it's a pretty safe bet that they'll be a good investment.
To make things easier, I've cherry-picked the top five boot trends that, after careful consideration and research, I think will dominate in 2025.
1. Brown Croc-Effect Boots
Style Notes: While crocodile-effect boots aren't exactly new, they are cropping up more and more in this gorgeous chocolatey brown shade. Seeing as brown boots were one of our favourite boot trends of 2024, it's nice to see fashion powerhouses offering us a new twist on the trend this year. And no matter how long croc-effect boots have been around, there's something about them that feels consistently voguish.
Shop the Look:
Toteme
Croco-Embossed Wide Shaft Boots Dark Brown
Toteme always have a killer selection of boots.
H&M
Ankle-High Leather Boots
The thin strap and pointed toe finish makes these super elegant.
Reformation
Xandra Knee Boot
These are my perfect under the knee boots.
2. Equestrian Boots
Style Notes: My delight to see equestrian-style boots taking the market by storm isn't something I've tried to hide. There's something about riding boots that makes an outfit instantly look more expensive (maybe it's their royal-esque, British heritage feel). I'd style them with leggings when I'm in the mood for a casual, country-girl aesthetic, but they also look fab with mini length dresses.
Shop the Look:
& Other Stories
Leather Riding Boots
If you want to embrace this trend in its most classic form, these are the boots to do it with.
We The Free
We the Free Bryce Equestrian Boots
I'm loving the cowboy-esque twist on these ones.
COS' Riding Boots are quite simply a staple.
3. White Boots
Style Notes: I'll be honest, I'm yet to venture into the world of white boots, but this might just be the year I change my mind. Yes, maintaining their pristine condition isn't going to be easy, but for that retro 60s look, I'll give it a go. We've spotted so many knee-high and over-the-knee boots in ivories, creams and whites recently, and we're expecting them to stick around.
Shop the Trend:
VALENTINO GARAVANI
Pattie 75 Buckle-Embellished Leather Boots
The Valentino Pattie boots in ivory are what are what dreams are made of.
Mint Velvet
Cream Leather Long Boots
Mint Velvet always offer high-quality footwear, at a reasonable price.
ZARA
Over-The-Knee High Heel Leather Boots
Thanks to the foldable flap, these can be worn two ways.
4. Chunky Block Heel Boots
Style Notes: Isn't there something so empowering about putting on a pair of boots with a chunky block heel? While kitten heel boots remain a firm favourite amongst the Who What Wear team, we're also glad to see the chunky heel making a reappearance. You can embrace this trend with a pair of knee-highs or ankle lengths - either one will help you ooze confidence.
Shop the Trend:
STUART WEITZMAN
Bethenny Leather Knee Boots
I'd style these with both midi and mini lengths.
M&S Collection
Chunky Buckle Block Heel Boots
Less than £50 for these boots feels like a steal.
H&M
Knee-High Suede Boots
H&M Premium have released some seriously impressive pieces lately.
5. Moto Boots
Style Notes: As one of our favourite boot trends of 2024, moto boots have passed the longevity test as retailers continue to release new designs. Lace-up boots will always have a place in my heart, but I must admit that I love how these buckle-adorned boots look. We're seeing some of our favourite brands offer new versions of their classic black moto boots, in brown and even with sparkly embellishments.
Walnut brown leather finished with a brass buckle? Perfection.
Vagabond Shoemakers
Eyra Leather Biker Boots
These are the perfect length for flowy midi skirts.
Add a bit of pazazz to the trend with this fabulous pair from Jimmy Choo.