I Texted My Most In-the-Know Friends About Black Boots—Here's What Will Be In for 2026

I’ve reached a point in my wardrobe where black boots do more heavy lifting than any other shoe I own. They’re the grounding piece, the outfit solver, the thing I put on when everything else feels too overwhelming. But the boot landscape is… crowded. There are so many silhouettes that even I, a person who literally gets paid to know these things, started second-guessing what actually feels like my next best purchase.

So I did what any self-respecting fashion editor does when she needs fashion advice: I texted other fashion editors. Within minutes, my phone became a stream of links, photos, and I even got a voice note. After sorting through all the opinions, the patterns became clear—these are the black boots worth buying well into 2026.

Belle Bakst, Fashion Editor

“These black leather Tabitha boots don’t just walk; they strut. You can order them to your calf size for a perfect fit and soft leather that feels like a hug for your legs and make me feel like the main character.”

Gaby Keiderling, Fashion Editor

“This style from Moncler is my go-to come winter weather—the knit upper keeps me warm, and the durable sole can handle the wetter conditions. It’s the perfect example of function meeting fashion.”

“Gucci’s lace-up style is an investment worthwhile. With its price tag, you’re getting a shoe that is endlessly versatile. It can be dressed both up and do, transitioning from day to night seamlessly.”

Shelby Comroe, Fashion Editor

“As someone who mostly wears skirts, a great pair of knee-high boots is essential once winter hits. The Apollo by Khaite fit like a glove, giving my legs that long, seamless line, and the buttery-soft leather makes them feel just as good as they look.”

“Trends come and go, but the Frye Harness boot is truly my old faithful. I dress pretty feminine, and sometimes an outfit just needs a cool moto moment to toughen it up. This pair delivers that edge and is built to handle the elements season after season.”

Trinidad Alamos, Fashion Editor

"I recently discovered Naturalizer’s boots, and they’ve been life-changing. These knee-highs are the perfect day-to-night option—comfortable enough for running errands and attending appointments during the day and sleek to style with a miniskirt for a night out. I’m also a sucker for a square toe!"

Alicia Pettit,Fashion Creative

"I love my Paris Texas collection, but I always end up choosing the stiletto boot. It hits that perfect mix of sexy and edgy without even trying."

Sierra Mayhew, Fashion Editor

Seeing my most-worn boots over the past few years being on sale is an absolute win for me. I’ve convinced multiple friends to buy these boots because they just look good with everything and feel nearly as comfortable as walking around in sneakers. I’ve already ordered a second pair and can’t rave about them enough. The photo above is just proof that I've convinced all of my friends to buy them too—we all showed up to the function wearing them one night.

Remy Schiffman, Shopping Editor

“I’ve been searching for riding boots I could take from fall into winter, especially after moving to Greenwich and getting inspired by the polished, heritage style here. I ordered these leather riding boots from Massimo Dutti, and they exceeded every expectation. Clean lines, beautiful leather, and genuinely comfortable.”

Jennifer Atilémile, Model andBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing Editor in Residence

"My fave boot is this one from Staud. It's giving Givenchy Shark boot—I don't have pics of me. I'm realising I need to get better at that! And my other fave is this one, The Stuart Weitzman Vida 100 High Boot (in Wide). I don't think a wide boot like this is being offered anywhere at the moment. But here's a pic of me in it."

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