Honestly, These Boot Trends Feel a Little Dated—4 That Are So Much Fresher

There are many sartorial reasons why I love the cold months of autumn and winter, but at the top of the list is the return of boots. As someone who relies on trainers on an almost daily basis, boots are just about the only other footwear style that I gravitate towards—they're just as versatile, but somehow always manage to make any outfit feel more considered. So, as the time arrives for me to reassess my collection, I of course wanted to figure out which boot styles I may need to press pause on, and which trends I definitely need to embrace.

From my runway stalking and Instagram scrolling, it's clear that there a few standouts. Overall, it seems like boot trends are leaning towards nostalgia, looking largely to the Nineties for inspiration. The grunge-inspired biker boot is back in a big way, largely thanks to Scandi influencers who are wearing them with everything from oversized jeans to mini slip dresses. Then there's the cowboy boot, which those-in-the-know had already started pairing with denim shorts and breezy dresses during the summer months.

While knee-high boots are undoubtedly the top silhouette of the season, there's a style to suit every wardrobe need—after all, sometimes a sleek ankle boot is just what you need to go with the crop of your jeans or tailored trousers. Personally, I'm most excited for the animal print trend. I've had a pair of snakeskin boots for years and they've become the unlikely hero piece of my footwear collection. With the look now trending once again, there are plenty of new options to choose from, so I'm convinced now is the time to finally replace the much-loved pair...

No matter your style or boot silhouette preference, there's a trend for you this season. Scroll on to discover my pick of the very best.

See The Boots Trends We Think Are Dated for 2024, and the Ones We're Replacing Them With

1. Pausing: Lace-Up Boots

Loving: Cowboy Boots

Style Notes: Western-influenced style is back in a big way this season, from the rise of the suede jacket to the return of the classic cowboy boot. Suede or leather, embroidered or plain, this sharp silhouette is taking over from riding boots in the equestrian-inspired footwear charts. Pair with jeans and t-shirt for a cool, relaxed look, or use to add a tough edge to floaty dresses.

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2. Pausing: Metallics

Loving: Animal Print

Style Notes: Last year, metallics were the playful footwear trend, but this year animal prints and textured leather are the new must-have. Snake and leopard print are the most on trend, and this season designers and high street favourites alike have plenty of different iterations to choose from. I'll be using mine to break up my go-to all-black autumn outfits.

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3. Pausing: Sock Boots

Loving: Moto Boots

Style Notes: Maybe its due to the resurgence of interest in Nineties style and the grunge era that it was famous for, but biker boots are back. The moto style is oversized, chunky and adorned with silver hardware. Wear yours with everything from jeans to mini skirts.

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4. Pausing: Square-Toe

Loving: Pointed-Toe

Style Notes: The sharper the better is the shoe-shape rule this autumn. While I'll always love the look of a square-toe, this season the sleek look of the pointed-toe boot is the one to go for. This elegant silhouette elevates any outfit, from knitted dresses to evening looks.

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