Our Editors Reveal the Boots That Changed Their Lives
The thing I love most about boots? The ability to wear a heel with stability, minus the pain. But have I personally encountered a style or brand of boot that has changed my life? Not quite. I certainly wore my way through last year's fun pair of buckle Jeffrey Campbell's, but nothing absolutely life-changing (sigh). So until I find the perfect pair, I have turned to the opinions from the Who What Wear Australia team on what boots they love.
In the last few winter seasons we've seen metallic make a statement, the patent revival, the comeback of the kitten heel, and the It-boot of 2017 (the boot the Hadid sisters can't get enough of): The white ankle boot. Since a lot of our team are running around the city for meetings and even travel for work, you can trust they're not only stylish but comfortable for everyday wear.
Keep scrolling to meet the team, read what boots have changed their life, and to shop the styles.
"As soon as I spotted the Acne Studios Pistol boots when they were first released, I knew I had to get my hands on them. I'm now onto my third pair, and I can safely say I wouldn't know how to do winter without them. They're the perfect wear-everywhere ankle boots—taking me from work, to dinners, to weekend errands. I wear them with everything from jeans and leather skinnies, to slip dresses, and skirts. What will I do if Acne Studios ever stops making them?"
"I'd have to say ATP Atelier, because I don't think anyone cuts a suede boot as well as them. I just bought their Mei boot, and I never take them off."
"For me it's the Acne Studios Jensen Boot. I was fortunate enough to find the Beige Grain on sale last year and it has been the best purchase I've made to date. So much so that my next boot purchase without a doubt will be a pair in black. They are the most versatile shoes I own and I can't go anywhere without being stopped and asked where they are from."
"These R.M. Williams boots are my must-wear boots through winter and beyond. Go-with-everything black and a slight heel, which gives a little extra lift. They're easy to wear with jeans and dresses—they look good with pretty much everything!"
"After spending the last four winters searching for the perfect black ankle boots, I am surprised to be writing it's actually a gold pair that changed my life. I snatched up these Saint Laurent boots on sale recently and while it took me a couple of tries to feel 100 percent comfortable, I now live in them. The brushed and soft gold leather means they don't overtake what I'm wearing. I love wearing them with jeans and T-shirt, or black midi-length pieces. They're also the perfect height for looking 'done' but still being able to walk anywhere I need to without getting sore feet. I definitely think they add a layer of cool to my wardrobe, kind of like an unexpected twist."
"High-ankle boots have changed my life. As someone who is a serial boot wearer in both the winter and the summer—it’s my shoe of choice. These babies are the ultimate boot for everyday wear because they’re reliable. They can match any outfit—from jeans to palazzo pants—are extremely comfortable, and their heel height is perfect for someone like me, who's always running around."
"Definitely my Wittner ankle boots. The style is 'honesty' and I bought them last year (they're back this year!) and wear them pretty much every single time I go out, and they're relatively comfortable. I debated buying them in brown as well, now that it's coming into spring I might have to. Plus, they're only $250, which isn't bad for leather boots!"
Opening images: Style Du Monde and Collage Vintage
Who's your style icon?
Jenny Walton. She has a quirky, French, feminine style I adore. She mixes designer, vintage, high street really well and isn’t afraid of colour and print. My style board on Pinterest is full of street style images from her at fashion week events.
Who are your 5 favourite people to follow on Twitter/Instagram?
@unconditionalmagazine, @ilona_hamer, @thefatjewish, @glossier, @giorgiatordini
What's the fashion essential you can't live without?
My vintage red tartan jacket. It's timeless and bold. I love wearing it with a red matte lipstick.
What's your desert island album?
Any '70s playlist will do!
-
Wearing Cropped Jeans With This Type of Shoe Keeps Them From Looking Dated
You probably already own them.
By Allyson Payer
-
I Want a Rich-Looking Wardrobe—33 Perfect Picks FromReplica Store's (Early) Black Friday Sale
Get a head start with these chic gems.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
Katie Holmes Made This Outdated Leggings-and-Boots Outfit Feel Just Right for 2025
A combo I will live in.
By Nikki Chwatt
-
J.Lo Wore the Brand-New Uggs That'll Go Viral and Sell Out By December 1—Guaranteed
Don't say I didn't warn you.
By Eliza Huber
-
Zoë Kravitz Just Wore the One Winter Boot Trend That Every Chic Celeb Agrees On
Dakota Johnson and Sofia Richie are also fans.
By Nikki Chwatt
-
Katie Holmes Just Wore the Elegant Boot Color New Yorkers Are Abandoning Black For
Take note.
By Nikki Chwatt
-
Black Shoes, Watch Out—This Alternative Color Is Chicer, More Elegant, and Just as Classic
Brown *just might* be the new black.
By Copelyn Bengel
-
Don't Come for Me, But I'd Pick Hailey Bieber's Elegant Bag Over a Margaux Any Day
It's that chic.
By Eliza Huber