Forget pumpkin spice. Boots are the real superstar of fall. And while good ones should last for years, there's nothing more exciting than a brand new pair that's totally on trend.
This season there are a lot of timeless styles in the spotlight, but combat, chelsea and western styles are hitting hard. Less practical but totally swoon-worthy, structured knee-high stunners have pushed out the more slouchy styles and we have to admit, it makes us feel totally validated for holding onto those skinny jeans after all. And like everything else in current fashion, 90's inspired styles are hot as well. As far as color, black obviously never goes out of style, but light neutrals (like taupe, sand and even white) make the case for stepping (see what I did there?) out of your comfort zone.
I live Vermont which admittedly isn't exactly a style mecca (I mean, the most fashion buzz we've ever gotten was for a pair of handmade mittens.) It is, however, boot season approximately nine months out of the year, so trust me when i tell you that I've owned more than my fair share. I've spent countless hours internet shopping for styles all across the spectrum and it truly would be a shame to let that hard work go to waste.
Here are some of the not-to-be-missed fall boots of 2021.
Timberland Allington Block Heel Bootie
These lug sole Timberlands are giving us major 90's vibes and we're totally here for it.
Schutz Analeah Knee High Western Boot
Well, well, well. If there were a pair of boots that aimed to check every Fall 2021 trend box, these would be it. Light neutral? Check. Western style? Sure thing. Knee high? You got it. Sold!
Marc Fisher Gadri Pointed Toe Bootie
Grey might not be the first color you think of when it comes to boots, but it's surprisingly versatile. Grab it in this bootie style and every sweater and jeans pairing looks effortlessly on point.
Lucky Brand Calypso Over the Knee Boot
Practical but polished, these over-the-knee pull on boots have a rubber sole to keep you from slipping while you wander through the leaves.
Jeffrey Campbell Cromwell Cut Out Western Boot
Cowgirl booties > cowgirl boots. With their deep slit and filigree-motif metal rands at the pointed toe and block heel, this stylish pair from Jeffrey Campbell hits all the trends without trying too hard.
Free People Wild Rose Slouch Fringe Boot
Every person needs one pair of boots with fringe in their closet. Full stop.
Dr. Martens Sinclair Bootie
Like everything else 90's fashion, combat-style boots are back big time. But find me a mom with the time to lace those puppies up while also doing battle with kids who can't put their own shoes on...
That's where this twist on Doc Marten's classic really shines. The zip front makes them practically a slip on but you still have the option to lace them up if you want to.
Sorel Joan of Arctic III Waterproof Wedge Chelsea Boot
With a chunkier more flared heel, Sorel's 2021 update to their popular Joan of Arctic Chelsea Boot is absolutely fantastic. As the owner of a previous version, I can attest to the fact that these boots are made to survive the apocalypse and look fab while doing it. (Case in point, they got me through 2019 and 2020 in Vermont.) Their waterproof upper and grippy rubber sole keep you ready for whatever weather may come but also looks hot enough for date night.
Universal Thread Anya Ankle Boots
Cute, comfy and super wallet-friendly, these booties are just begging for a fall photo shoot.
Vince Camuto Phranzie Knee High Boot
If kicking butt and taking names is on your fall bucket list, well, this is the footwear for doing so. The mix of luxe leather textures and not-messing around shaft height says you came to slay and slay hard.
Kork-Ease Ryder Ankle Boot
You can't go wrong with this elevated essential from Kork-Ease. The gorgeous leather bootie not only goes with everything but also feels comfortable right out of the box.
Dolce Vita Hinto Studded Lace-Up Bootie
Look at you! You never even knew you needed boots with a calf hair trim and here we are. These obsession-worthy lace-up booties take the classic style in a fashion-forward direction that just CRUSHES. (And they even have an inside zip to make tugging them on easier.)
Dolce Vita Caster H2O Waterproof Block Heel Bootie
Who doesn't love the holy matrimony of function and fashion? These block heel kicks are the perfect answer to "What kind of shoes are we supposed to wear now that skinny jeans are out??" while their waterproof upper and chunky rubber sole make them apple orchard adventure-ready.
Hunter Original Waterproof Chelsea Rain Boot
They may be known for their stall-mucking appropriate knee-high boots, but the Hunter Chelsea is the true superstar. They're far less cumbersome and are the only shoe that can tromp around the dog park and out for drinks with the girls without missing a beat.
Swedish Hasbeens Zip It Emy Clog Bootie
The 70's Swedish clogs with their hippy, arty vibe have never really gone out of style. And while I'll always be obsessed with the basic black leather, this season's leopard print calf hair has me rethinking everything.
Ugg Saoirse Waterproof Bootie
With a moto-style and lug sole, these everyday boots work with everything from jeans to dresses. (And they're totally waterproof too!)
Red Wing Clara Boot
Durable, timeless and designed to get better with age, Red Wing boots could be the last pair of boots you ever buy. (Hahahahha! Yeah right. Like that would ever happen.) The Minnesota brand has been making high-quality footwear for well over a hundred years and we're pretty sure some of those first pairs could still be wearable. The Clara style with its modest heel and perfectly-stitched toe makes an ideal addition to a capsule wardrobe.
Sam Edelman Laguna Waterproof Chelsea Boot
It's Chelsea boots as far as the eye can see this season, so why not step away from the basic black comfort zone when you jump on board? These are bringing me back to the days of flipping through the Delia's catalog in search of the perfect cropped sweater and plaid pants and it turns out life comes full circle, huh? Cue the Alanis and let's do this.
Soludos Venetian Bootie
We're loving the wrap-front style of this simple bootie from Soludos. The brand gets top marks for their all day comfort that requires no breaking in.
Madden Girl Women’s Honeyy Chelsea Boots
Gucci taste on a Target budget? (Me too, friend. Me too.) These stylish Trip-dupes are just what the doctor ordered. And look at it this way. You're not spending 80 bucks—you're saving $1,020.
