Rosie Huntington-Whiteley wearing The Row boots.
Boots are always a key investment for the cold season, and this year is no exception. Paired with jeans or dresses, midi skirts or tailored trousers, boots are the footwear of choice for winter, ticking off the practicality and style boxes in brilliant fashion.
The best part of boot shopping is the fact that, whatever silhouette and aesthetic you go for, you can be confident that it will always come back into style. Classic silhouettes like Chelsea boots, sleek leather ankle boots and knee-highs have a timeless quality that means they always look good, and are versatile enough to go with so many different looks. And more directional styles will always rotate back into the fashion set's favourites. As we noted in our autumn/winter fashion trends report, this year's hot boot is the thigh-high—the taller the better. And while it may seem like a bolder choice, you can rest assured that you'll be turning to the style for years to come.
With that in mind, of any shoe purchase you make, boots are the undoubtedly the one where it's worth investing in a high-quality pair, and I'm confident I've found the designers who make the best of the best. If you're into the chunky-boot trend, then Prada, Proenza Schouler and Bottega Veneta are the brands leading the charge here. If you want something a little sleeker, we love the knee-high boots at Paris Texas and Gianvito Rossi. If you want your designer boots to be distinctive, then Gucci's logo-emblazoned boots or The Row's markedly contemporary designs might be the ones for you. Keep scrolling for the investment boots we love, broken down by designer.
The Best Designer Boot Brands to Invest In
1. Paris Texas
Italian shoe brand Paris Texas was launched in 2015 by sisters Annamaria and Margherita Brivio, but over the few past years, the brand has catapulted to cult-label status.
The most iconic style.
A really sultry take on the classic Western style.
Ankle boots will always be useful, and the colour of these is so good.
2. The Row
The brand every fashion person subscribes to, The Row—which was founded by Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen—has been tempting us with its bags and clothes for years. Now, though, its boots are in the style spotlight, never remaining in stock for long.
It's the cult boot that always sells out—and they also come in half sizes.
A sleek take on the riding boot.
You're definitely going to see some of your favourite influencers wearing these at this year.
3. JIMMY CHOO
The brand may be best known for their red carpet-ready heels, but I think their boots are equally special.
So good from every angle.
This pair comes with a shearling lining to add an extra cosy touch.
I predict these will be a new brand icon.
4. Staud
It's not just Staud's glossy handbags that has caught the attention of fashion types; its boots have proven to be just as covetable thanks to their sleek silhouettes and expensive-looking finishes.
A beloved pair with seriously timeless appeal.
The fluted heels and bold red shade make these especially striking.
A fashion-forward option.
5. Prada
Prada has a pair of boots for everyone—from reliable chelsea boots to striking heeled booties.
Prada brings a sleek feel to this boots with a contemporary nod by way of the squared toe and thick sole.
So refined.
A high-fashion version of the classic Chelsea boot.
6. Bottega Veneta
Bottega Veneta's 2024 boot offerings are focused on timeless designs with an intricate contemporary edge. Look out for striking heel details, as well as renowned chunky boots that the brand itself revived.
The tall boot that everyone is eyeing this season.
No one does chunky sole boots quite like Bottega Veneta.
For those who like high impact.
7. Gianvito Rossi
Gianvito Rossi's shoes are always made from the softest leather and suede, and the knee-high stiletto boots are our favourites.
An understated, elegant boot that would look great with midi dresses and skirts.
These would be the ideal finishing touch for a jeans-and-jumper outfit.
This season, brown shades are especially elevated.
8. Proenza Schouler
Proenza Schouler's hiking boots were hugely popular last year, but this year is all about sleek silhouettes.
I love the deep brown colour of this suede.
These are the ultimate statement boots—pair with a mini dress or a long dress with a serious split to show them off.
Wearable, refined, and sure to move quickly.
9. Gucci
Gucci creates some of the flashiest boots around, with the brand's logo and gold hardware detailing.
With just a subtle nod to the House's equestrian heritage by way of the Horsebit detail.
Trust Gucci to make the sexiest black boot.
The horsebit gold detail from the brand's signature loafers, reimagined in a chunky boot.
10. Aeyde
Aeyde is one of my favourite contemporary shoe brands and creates beautiful knee-high and ankle boots.
Simple, sleek, gorgeous.
These have the perfect hint of Western style.
A comfortable low heel for all day wear.
11. TOTEME
This beloved brand has a cult following for it's minimalist styles with a Scandi style twist, and their sleek boots absolutely live up to its fashionable standards.
Flat boots have never looked so good.
How great would these look with a slinky slip skirt?
The croc finish is such a nice touch.
12. ISABEL MARANT
If there's one boot every fashion fan covets, it's one of Isabel Marant's suede, Western-inspired boots. The easiest way to elevate a simple jeans-and-jumper outfit.
A western edge is always welcome.
Short and sweet.
This buckle pair are coveted by so many fashion fans.
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