There is one style of shoe that I believe is superior to any other. Its versatility and limitless number of toe shapes, heel heights and colours make me excited for the warm weather to end every year—solely because it means this particular shoe can come out of hiding. I'm referring to the boot: My all-time favourite type of footwear. And if you're in the need of a new investment pair, these best boots under £500 will exceed your expectations.
Whilst a trainer may be comfortable and a heel is stylish enough for going out, a boot can do both impeccably. Come autumn, boots are the ultimate sartorial sidekick and a fall-time staple, taking you through to winter and onto spring. They're a given when you're styling a sweater dress or skirt look, and they partner flawlessly with any cut of jeans, from cropped fits to voluminous flares. They go together like coffee and cream with a cosy jumper, and you won't find a better shoe that works in both casual and more sophisticated settings.
To make your shopping decisions easier (I know finding the perfect investment pair is no easy feat), I've categorised this list into different style types to ensure you not only have a flat-soled knee-high boot in your rotation but also the perfect pair for holiday parties.
Shop the Best Boots Under £500, According to a Fashion Editor
1. The Best Heeled Knee-High Boots Under £500
Style Notes: To start off your boot shopping, we have to look at none other than the iconic high-heeled, knee-high boot. They're one of the most reliable footwear choices when you want to feel dressed up in the coldest months. Even on days where you're less than thrilled with what's in your closet, a good pair of these boots can absolutely change your outlook. Santïna's sweater dress look is the epitome of how to style these boots to perfection.
COS
Slouched Leather Knee-High Boots
A more relaxed boot is a fun way to change up the usual silhouette of a knee-high.
I have a hard time believing these aren't designer.
STAUD
Wally Suede Knee Boots
Suede has become my material and texture of choice this winter, from boots to bags. That had led to this pair joining my wish list.
2. The Best Flat Knee High Boots Under £500
Style Notes: Compared to their high-heeled counterparts, flat-soled knee-high boots are another must for your boot collection that are made for the everyday and perfectly executed by French girls. Their sophisticated silhouette dresses up any outfit but they're comfortable enough to be worn for nearly any occasion or errand run. Go for a chic monochrome look like Franny has done, or make your boots pop out from an outfit in a contrasting colour.
Reformation
Nancy Knee Boot
This is my idea of the perfect investment knee-high boot.
Whistles
Black Quin Stretch Knee-High Boot
These stretch boots are practically made to be worn with sweater dresses and midi skirts.
Charles & Keith
Leather Buckled-Strap Knee-High Boots
The buckle and rounded collar of this boot define it as a classic riding boot, but it certainly has a modern edge in my eyes.
3. The Best Chelsea Boots Under £500
Style Notes: Does it get more classic than a Chelsea boot? I think not. This familiar silhouette has been around since the 1800s and was made for royalty—and it's still a popular and easy-to-style choice today. Whether you pair it with a show-stopping fur coat like Lucy has, wear them with flare jeans, or style them with a skirt, you'll get many years of wear out of this specific type of boot.
Sézane
Lena Low Boots - Glossy Black
A timeless option that'll last you for years.
Sandro Paris
Ankle Boots With Notched Sole
I'm obsessing over the details on these boots, from the contrast stitching to the toe cap to the metal accessory on the sole.
Arket
Faux Fur Leather Boots
These have a faux-fur lining for an extra cosy element.
4. The Best Heeled Ankle Boots Under £500
Style Notes: Heeled ankle boots are winter's answer to your favourite pair of heels or mules, and it's worth investing in some that match with most of your seasonal capsule wardrobe. You have plenty of options to choose from too, whether you like a kitten heel, a square toe, a chunky sole or something sky-high. Nnenna's outfit is one gorgeous example of this boot's versatility. Copy her and style yours with jeans, or test them out with tights and a maxi skirt.
COS
Square-Toe Leather Ankle Boots
The mini square-toe and leather material make these look convincingly designer.
STAUD
Wally Suede Ankle Boots
A kitten heel is the best of both worlds as it looks sophisticated but it's often more comfortable than a stiletto.
H&M
Heeled Leather Ankle Boots
Such a sleek pick in a very seasonally popular colour.
5. The Best Chunky Boots Under £500
Style Notes: A chunky boot is a cool way to balance streamlined, clean-cut outfits. Their bolder shape gives more of an edge and they come in numerous styles that'll pair best with the looks you normally gravitate towards, whether you like a thick flatform or a grungier biker boot. Marianne's chunkier boots are a great choice for peeking out of longer trenches and wool coats.
GANNI
+ Net Sustain Paneled Recycled-Leather Chelsea Boots
I love the slightly-taller cut of these rubber-soled boots.
Arket
Leather Biker Boots
A biker boot is another cool way to embrace a chunky sole.
PROENZA SCHOULER
+ Sorel Caribou Leather and Rubber Platform Chelsea Boots
For when function matters too.
6. The Best Party Boots Under £500
Style Notes: Another important style that can't be forgotten when you're curating your collection of the best boots is party shoes. These are the boots that you may not wear day-to-day, but are important for holiday parties or the moments when you need an outfit-defining statement. Chiara's sparkly boots with black toe caps are a perfect example of how to make a statement with your footwear this season.
Reformation
Remy Knee Boot
Chic animal prints are everywhere this winter, and wearing them in boot form is perfect for parties and other occasions.
John Lewis x A.W.A.K.E. MODE
Mode Stiletto Heel Long Leather Boots, Silver
Match the tinsel and sparkle of the holidays in this stunning knee-high pair.
Sézane
Axelle Ankle Boots - Patent Purple
Patent leather + red = the perfect party boot.
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