Picking a new pair of boots is hard, mostly because buying them is a serious commitment — boots are typically pricey, they have to be comfortable enough to wear pretty much every day, and truthfully, they need to be durable enough to (ideally) last more than one season. But with all the different shapes and sizes (tall, short, pointed-toe, square-toe), colors (black, brown, white), and fabrics (leather, pony hair, velvet), finding The One gets even harder.
To jumpstart your seasonal shopping, we're laying the footwear groundwork: The perfect leather boot. While color and silhouette are up to your personal preference, if you're looking to upgrade your solid, wear anywhere, anytime shoe, this is where you'll want to begin. Leather boots are sturdy enough to take on those morning commutes and errand running, but still manage look pretty damn good. And if you're not sure where to start when it comes to fall boots, look to the 12 options ahead. They're worth it.
Patent leather will never steer you wrong.
Zara Leather High Heel Ankle Boots, $119, available at Zara.
These are reminiscent of the Marni chelsea boots we saw last season, but for a fraction of the price.
Toba Chelsea Boot, $89, available at Urban Outfitters.
Simple, but edgy. Classic Alexander Wang.
Alexander Wang Hanne Leather Ankle Boots, $695, available at Saks Fifth Avenue.
If you're one of those people who feels like they can't wear certain boots because of their calves, let this roomy pair show you otherwise.
Stuart Weitzman The Straighten Boot, $698, available at Stuart Weitzman.
This black hiking boot is classic, but the clear rubber sole adds a little twist.
Topshop Kool Flat Lace Boot, $65, available at Topshop.
Why not mix up the heel for something less expected?
Acne Studios Cony, $650, available at Acne Studios.
The sleek silhouette bodes well with the chunky buckles.
Frye Sabrina Double Buckle, $378, available at Frye.
One of those pairs you can literally wear with anything.
Sergio Rossi Changeling Stretch leather Boots, $1,230, available at LUISAVIAROMA.
Splattered paint makes the classic Doc Marten look even cooler than it already is. Plus, you can start wearing them now with shorts.
Dr. Martens Paint Splat Pascal 8-eye Boot, $139.95, available at Shoe Buy.
Because your accessories deserve piercings, too.
Mango Buckle Ankle Boots, $149.99. available at Mango.
How could I not include these? They're called the "Rachel."
Tibi Rachel Boots, $595, available at Tibi.
Do your best Twiggy.
Dorateymur Nizip Boots in White Napa Leather, $495, available at Dorateymur.
Platforms are back, y'all!
Marc Jacobs Amber Platform Boots, $525, available at Shopbop.
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