Boot season used to be confined to the winter months, but not anymore. Fashion types have cemented boots as a year-round shoe staple, from cowboy boots to knee-highs worn with mini hemlines. 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 fresh and inspiring ways in their summer collections for 2022, 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 season ahead, we thought it would be a good idea to revisit our favourite 2022 boot trends, as witnessed on the runway. 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. 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 seven key boot trends that kept cropping up on the 2022 runways and our wish lists. Scroll on to see them.
Style Notes: Practical boots have been the order of the day for the past few seasons, but designers including Saint Laurent 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.
I’d like to wear these with a matching oxblood coat.
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 previously 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.
Such a fun take on the timeless Chelsea.
One word: wow.
The high/low look of these lace-up boots feels so fresh.
Style Notes: Be it on loafers or heels—or, yes, boots—the platform sole is 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 retro platforms.
Style Notes: A subtle move on from the chunky track-sole boots that have dominated these past few years, biker 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.
A sleeker take on the trend—the zip saves any faff of getting them on and off.
A mix between hiker and biker, these are just ready and waiting for those autumnal walks.
Jimmy Choo is always a go-to for love-forever styles.
Style Notes: Let’s face it—the cowboy boot is rarely out of sight, no matter the year or season. Whether you go for an ankle style to tuck into your jeans or a tall pair to add to minidresses, 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.
All our editors love Reformation’s drop of authentic-looking cowboy boots.
Style Notes: Metallic shoes often make a comeback for party season, but for 2022, designers including Emporio Armani and Courrèges 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.
Tick off multiple trends in one.
Style Notes: There is no mistaking the fact that over-the-knee boots are reporting for duty this autumn. From Isabel Marant’s slouchy styles to Victoria Beckham’s bright sock thigh-grazers, they come in many forms—all you need do it take your pick!
Cream and beige over-the-knee boots were all over the runway.
Proof over-the-knee boots look excellent styled with miniskirts.
If tan is more your thing, this pair from Reiss is hard to beat.
