Few things make venturing out in the autumn chill and mizzle less appealing than when you are lacking the right footwear. But finding a stylish pair of boots, that can handle whatever the weather may throw at you while working for different occasions, isn’t always easy.
So, we’ve done the hard work for you and narrowed down the options. From comfy boots for stomping around the countryside to chic versions for the office and party options for the festive season, here are the best boots to shop now.
Best boots for the office commute
Marks & Spencer Chelsea boots, £69
marksandspencer.com
A flat Chelsea boot is a staple in any wardrobe, and this affordable, wide-fit style in a subtle bordeaux colour will be invaluable this autumn. Wear with cropped jeans and a chunky jumper for more relaxed offices, or style with longer wide leg trousers and a striped shirt for smarter days.
Dune Parked biker boots, £160
dunelondon.com
A biker heel gives you a little height while still being comfortable enough for running around town. I’m a big fan of these pull-on Dune London boots, which will look modern with black tailoring or stylish with a mini dress. The square toe also makes these fantastic for people with wide feet and those who prefer a slightly roomier footbed.
Zara suede kitten heel boots, £69.99
zara.com
zara.com
Nothing says “hello, autumn” like a pair of brown suede boots, and this Zara style is affordable and chic. The 1.7in heel pairs well with skirts and dresses to give a sense of height, yet is low enough to comfortably walk in. Invest in some suede protector to see you through the season.
& Other Stories heeled Chelsea boots, £145
stories.com
Block heels are a commuter’s best friend, and this style from & Other Stories is versatile enough to wear with most of your wardrobe. They’re slightly higher than an ankle boot, so will work with midi dresses and wide leg trousers, as well as being perfect to wear with cropped jeans.
John Lewis knee high boots, £149
johnlewis.com
If you prefer knee high boots then this brown style, with a walkable 2.7in heel, is worth checking out. They are classic enough to go with anything you throw at them yet they feel very new season with their cylindrical heel and small gold buckle detailing. I would wear them with a fitted maxidress and blazer. Melanie Wilkinson
Best boots for braving bad weather
Hunter Chelsea boots, £90
hunterboots.co.uk
Comfortable enough to wear all day, and versatile enough to wear with anything from jeans to leggings and dresses, these are my go-to on a rainy day. On particularly wet days when you’re not WFH, pop them on for heading to the office, then swap into something less functional for meetings. The sturdy pull tab at the ankle means they can be quickly hoiked on and off.
Muck short boots, £130
muckbootcompany.co.uk
The original pull-on Muck Boots are 100% waterproof and lined with neoprene for flexibility – little wonder they’re a countryside and city favourite. They are supportive and feature a durable rubber outsole, which makes them as ideal for field and forest walking as they are for strolling along leaf-strewn pavements.
Merrell Siren 4 Thermo boot, £180
merrell.com
amazon.co.uk
These boots are ideal for snow days because they offer excellent warmth, great traction and a waterproof membrane to seal out water. They are light enough to wear all day and the knitted marl detailing gives them a luxury fashion touch.
Xtratuf ice boots, £150
xtratuf.co.uk
Designed for Alaska winters, the Xtratuf ADB ice boot offers excellent traction on slippery surfaces. This pair features a faux shearling lining, which is wonderfully cosy when slipping into them after a cold water swim or surfing session. As supporters of the RNLI, Xtratuf also donates £1 from every pair bought to the lifeguard charity.
Sorel Caribou boots, £165
sorelfootwear.co.uk
These boots are as good looking as they are durable. With a seam-sealed waterproof construction and a soft fleece cuff, they will keep you cosy and dry, and offer excellent grip in slippery conditions. Proof you don’t need to forgo style for substance. MW
Best boots for the party season
Mint Velvet silver ankle boots, £149
mintvelvet.com
Silver boots still have a place in your going-out wardrobe this autumn; they’ve become the new neutral. This pair is great for walking, dancing or just standing in the pub. Wear them with jeans and a cosy jumper as a bold accent accessory, or with your favourite party dress. MW
Carvela Hotsox ankle boot, £179
carvela.com
You might worry that you won’t get enough wear out of a pair of fun party boots like these, but my experience says you will. All of a sudden your black trousers will be elevated, and your Friday night jeans and a shirt will have a new personality. With just enough flair and sparkle, but still quite subtle, you’ll end up wearing them with everything. MW
Ganni western boots, £625
ganni.com
An influencer favourite, these boots feature a low-angled heel and contrasting embroidered detailing. They come in 10 colours, including metallic blue and silver. You could wear them with a short dress or skirt to show off the full boot, or use them to add a pop of colour underneath dark trousers and jeans. Chloe Mac Donnell
Stradivarius animal print boots, £35.99
stradivarius.com
Leopard print is gearing up to be among this season’s biggest trends. Give a nod to the mood with these printed ankle boots. They have a dance-able heel height and snug fit around the ankle. The pointed toe shape will give a sharp edge to simple wardrobe staples such as black trousers. CMD
Silent D Erena boots, £220
anthropologie.com
Unless you’re a maximalist, a snake-print knee high boot may sound a little OTT. But this kitten-heeled pair will bring a fun twist to muted looks. For a dinner party or night at a chic bar, try styling these with loose-fitting jeans, black trousers or a midi skirt. The kitten heel is low enough not to require a taxi too. CMD
Best boots for long days in the city
Merrell Marquette Thermo boots, £125
merrell.com
These waterproof boots are fleece-lined to keep your toes toasty even on the coldest of days. They feature a supportive foamy footbed and chunky rubber outsole ideal for hitting those city pavements. The pull-on tab gives them a casual edge. Wear with straight-leg jeans or slightly cropped trousers.
Haltham knee high boots, £250
duoboots.com
These boots come in eight different calf sizes, making them ideal for those who have ever struggled with getting boots to fit their legs. The neat stacked heel is low enough for running errands but will still give you a little elevation. They would look great underneath a dress or with jeans tucked into them. Although the boots are designed for a sleek fit, they have an internal elasticated stretch panel, so they remain supportive rather than too tight. They also come in a petite size.
Tommy Hilfiger Chelsea boots, £170
uk.tommy.com
These Chelsea boots feature a chunky sole to put a modern spin on the traditional design. The elasticated side panels means you can wear them with extra-thick socks or tights for added warmth.
FitFlop demi-wedge boots, £190
fitflop.com
FitFlop’s signature technology means these boots provide advanced arch support, while an insole gives firm cushioning at the heel and medium support at the toes. Essentially, that means you can wear these on long days mooching around an art gallery or festive shopping. Choose from four different colourways, but remember to treat them with a waterproof protective spray if you opt for the suede version.
Matt & Nat vegan boots, £90
These water-resistant boots are made using synthetic rather than animal-derived materials. The square heel is more supportive than a spindly stiletto, and the square toe is a huge trend this season. CMD
Best boots for a country walk
Dubarry Strokestown boots, £269
dubarry.com
Treated to absorb less moisture and lined with waterproof Gore-Tex, these boots will keep your feet dry and toasty. They are durable enough for long, muddy dog walks but lightweight enough to wear on a rainy day while running errands in town. If you’re going on a walk that ends with lunch at the pub, wear these with jeans and a fleece jacket.
Hoggs of Fife Rambler hiking boot, from £39.99
amazon.co.uk
This Scottish company has been making hand-welted country footwear since 1888. The Rambler boot is fully waterproof, features a moisture-wicking lining and comes with a rubber-cleated outsole to stop you from slipping. You can even take out the cushioned insole and pop it in the washing machine for a good refresh.
Ariat Skyline waterproof boot, £140
ariat.com
Ariat integrates athletic footwear technology into equestrian boots to avoid that dull foot pain too many will be familiar with at the end of a long day. The boots are durable yet still lightweight, and they won’t need breaking in. A multi-directional traction design on the outsole means they’re stay grippy on most terrain, from rocky hills to muddy paths.
Salomon X Ultra 4 Gore-Tex, £165
salomon.com
These boots have been designed specifically for women and feature a midsole that cradles the entire foot. They sit above the ankle with padded cuffs to offer extra support, while an adjustable strap means they fit snug around the top of the foot. They are also built for mixed terrain and will see you tackling tough inclines and tricky descents with ease.
Chameau-Lite Explore, £250
lechameau.com
For boots that are 100% waterproof and breathable, these are surprisingly lightweight. The sole was designed in collaboration with tyre brand Michelin, and the result is footwear with a sturdy grip and traction. These are the type of boots you can wear for a hike across rough terrain, but also slip into for a day of heavy work in the garden. CMD
