As someone who works in fashion, I pay especially close attention to footwear on the runways, and this year's autumn and winter shows had plenty to say about boots. Second skin silhouettes, comfy heels, and ultra rich finishes dominated the catwalks, and sock boots came back with a vengeance for 2026.
Chanel and Calvin Klein traded 2016's sky high stilettos for micro kitten heels and extra tall over the knee boots. Elsewhere, Gucci brought in crocodile embossing, while other luxury brands played with oversized buckles on classic leather.
Dior softened things up with suede, and while everyone was talking about the pared back Western boots at Chloé, I was pleasantly surprised to see the slouch boot making a comeback, too.
What makes the five boot trends below truly special: the silhouettes feel familiar, but the colors and textures are fashion forward enough to walk (ahem!) you straight into next season.
Sock boot
Defined by a pull on design and stocking like silhouette, sock boots swing in the opposite direction of chunkier styles for the sleekest fit possible. Look for stretch leather or flexible knit, both of which feel more like a second skin than fussy footwear. When you have a gazillion layers on, that glove like fit- be it thigh high or right at your ankles - definitely comes in handy.
& Other Stories Leather Sock Boots
Boden Stretch Velvet Ankle Boots Black Velvet
Slouch boot
Slouch (or scrunch) boots naturally gather around the ankle. They’re known for their soft, suede texture and laid back, borrowed from the ‘70s vibe. Mid calf is the most universally flattering height, though modern knee high styles give you a little extra coverage over skinny jeans when temps truly drop. Bonus: the wide shaft makes them super easy to tuck in bootcut denim or trousers for added style points.
River Island Brown Cone Heel Slouch Calf Boots
Next Black Forever Comfort® Suede Knee High Slouch Boots
Buckle boot
Traditionally styled in leather and lug soles for maximum edge, buckle boots are showing their softer side this time around. Think gold hardware on a heeled suede silhouette or even a classic rain boot, balancing hard and delicate textures. Don’t worry, though: your favourite moto boots are still rocking about, now with heavy duty straps and triple the hardware.
Dorothy Perkins Wide Fit Faux Leather Bonnie Buckle Biker Boots
Dorothy Perkins Wide Fit Faux Leather Bonnie Buckle Biker Boots
Lara and James Women's Buckle Knee-High Biker Boots
Lara and James Women's Buckle Knee-High Biker Boots
Micro kitten heel boot
If comfort tops your list, barely there kitten heels are the trend to get behind. Like her older (and slightly taller) sister, the ultra low kitten heel brings a little lift and a lot of polish to everyday outfit formulas. This season, you can take your pick from curved, coned, and traditional heel shapes.
Massimo Dutti Low Heel Ankle Boots
Reptilian boot
Step aside, snakeskin. Crocodile is coming for your turf. The best pairs right now come in high gloss hues like deep brown and cherry red - even embossed suede is getting in on the action. And for anyone wondering: yes, this animal print still counts as a neutral.
Free People Sweet Talker Snip Toe Boots
Whistles Brown Darla Croc Heeled Boot
Nobody's Child Brown Croc-Embossed Leather Ottilie Ankle Boots
