Boot season used to be confined to the winter months, but not anymore. From cowboy boots to knee-highs worn with mini hemlines, fashion types have cemented boots as a year-round shoe staple. Of course, this isn’t news to Brit girls —our changeable weather (even in the height of summer) means that we keep our boots within arm’s reach at all times.
More brands than ever showcased boots in their summer collections for 2022 in fresh and inspiring ways, and a lot of those themes have continued through to the autumn/winter collections as well. So as we start to look forward to the new season ahead we thought it would be a good idea to revisit our favourite 2022 boot trends— some we’re already wearing, and some we can’t wait to wear more of when the cooler months arrive.
Fashion may not have progressed as quickly as it usually would over the past few years, but 2022 marks a distinct shift in the type of trends we’re seeing—particularly where boots are concerned. Yes, practicality and comfort still play an integral design role, but now, it looks as if designers have rediscovered the joy in creating boots for show, too, with spindly heels, fancy embellishments, and even metallics making a comeback.
Below, I’ve identified the six key boot trends that not only kept cropping up on the 2022 runways, but also on our current wish lists as well. Scroll on to see them.
Style Notes: Practical boots have been the order of the day for the past few seasons, but designers including Blumarine and Vivienne Westwood are embracing super-high stilettos this year. These likely won’t be the most comfortable boots you’ll ever own, but who cares when they look so fabulous?
The perfect alternative to black.
These come in all the colours of the rainbow.
So fierce, and they’ll go with everything.
Style Notes: Getting dressed up and feeling fancy is a 2022 vibe, and embellished boots—along the lines of the jewel-encrusted type seen at Jil Sander—will give your shoe collection a serious lift. Choose a flat boot style for maximum wearability, or a high-heel pair for special occasions.
One word: Wow.
Such a fun take on the timeless Chelsea.
The high/low look of these lace-up boots feels so fresh.
Style Notes: Be it loafers or heels—or, yes, boots—platform soles are one of 2022’s biggest overarching shoe trends. Handily, there are so many excellent options you can shop now for every budget.
We also have our eye on the white version of these chunky boots.
The platform makes these heeled boots so comfy.
Yes, yes, yes to power platforms.
Style Notes: A subtle move on from the chunky track-sole boots that have dominated these past few years, combat boots are taking over in 2022. Reminiscent of the ’90s grunge era, use them to add an edge to dresses or to contrast ecru jeans.
The zip saves any faff of getting them on and off.
These are just ready and waiting for those autumnal walks.
Dear Frances is always a go-to for love-forever styles.
Style Notes: Let’s face it, the cowboy boot rarely goes out of sight—year after year, across all seasons. Whether you go for an ankle style to tuck into your jeans, or a tall pair to add to mini dresses, you’ll never run out of ways to style the Western.
This simple black pair is so wearable if you’re new to the trend.
Of course Isabel Marant has so many iterations.
Toe caps are another trend this year.
Style Notes: Metallic shoes often make a comeback for party season, but for 2022, designers including Emporio Armani and Courreges have given them year-round appeal in boot form. Silver was the shade most prevalent on the runway—opt for treated leather or go all out with some glittery Victoria Beckham knee-highs.
This contrast heel Khaite pair gets our vote.
There’s no being a wall flower in these statement knee-highs.
