If you're wondering which accessories to invest in this season that will last all year long, then I have two words for you: ankle boots. They are high on the sartorial agenda, and it's easy to see why. Whether it's slimline silhouettes, or chunky track sole boots, the best ankle boots will adapt themselves seamlessly to your existing wardrobe and elevate any outfit.
Even during the warmer months, these boots pair perfectly with pretty summer dresses for a stylish off-duty look.
As always, the catwalk is a great source of inspiration when it comes to your new season wardrobe, and this year was no exception. As a fashion editor, I was lucky enough to see some of my favourite shows and get up close and personal with the new trends.
Cowboy boots, having had a bit of a bad rep in recent seasons, are now officially back in fashion, as seen from Isabel Marant and Celine, and we want in. Team them with oversized jeans and a blazer for that ultimate French girl chic.
Fashion Editor Zoe Anastasiou seen in Mango ankle boots (L) and Carvela ankle boots (R).
Feel-good dressing is a main trend for this season and it extends to your feet: it's all about dressing for the part. Think brightly coloured boots and metallic pointy toes with sky-high heels or platforms.
That said, if you're after a simpler style, don't worry: the chunky track sole boot is going nowhere. In fact, the likes of MatchesFashion and Net-A-Porter have already re-stocked bestselling boots from Prada and Balenciaga, so you're all sorted.
If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, the high street is full of them, from Mango to Zara and H&M. For a slightly chicer silhouette, look for Chelsea ankle boots, which never go out of style. For more shopping inspiration, don't forget to check out my edits of the best summer sandals and best trainers for all your footwear needs, and check out our Liberty discount codes to grab yourself a deal.
Shop the best ankle boots:
I've handpicked each pair of boots from brands that the Marie Claire UK team know and love. I've taken into account everything from the material, the price, the style and the quality. Keep on scrolling for my top picks...
Featuring a sleek pointed-toe design, and wearable 6cm heel height, these ankle boots are as timeless as they come.
Editor Verdict:
"I personally own last season's version of these ankle boots and find them to be so versatile. They have a slight heel so they look appropriate for dressier occasions, yet the heel isn't so high that it's uncomfortable, meaning the shoes work for the office or every day." - Zoe Anastasiou, Fashion Editor
Playing into the chunky, track sole silhouette, these ankle boots are right on trend. They are just made for long walks in the local park.
Editor Verdict:
"These are my favourite ankle boots. Not only is the chunky style bang on trend, but they are also great quality, too." - Katie Thomas, Senior Beauty Editor
Hailing from Paris, Bobbies offers footwear that embraces that elevated, eternally chic French aesthetic. The shoes are designed in France and manufactured between Spain and Portugal, with a responsible and sustainable approach.
Editor Verdict:
"I added these boots to my footwear collection recently and have to say they definitely fill a gap in my wardrobe. They're minimalist, yet elevated and just so happen to pair as well alongside dresses and skirts, as they do alongside jeans and wide-leg trousers. A versatile investment to say the least." - Zoe Anastasiou, Fashion Editor
Between Rosie Huntington-Whiteley and Zoë Kravtiz, these ankle boots from The Row certainly have the celebrity tick of approval. They're such a classic!
For a classic cowboy boot, you can't go wrong with Isabel Marant. This pair is made from supple suede and has all the traditional Western details - note the stacked, distressed Cuban heels and classic stitching. The neutral hue will go with floral dresses and denim alike.
Dr. Martens boots are such a great investment. Yes, they can be a little uncomfortable to begin with, but once you've broken them in, you won't want to wear anything else.
These Prada boots made everyone fall back in love with the chunky style, and the trend isn't going anywhere. These boots feature a full lace closure with a pull tab to the heel, a leather exterior, a rounded toe and a chunky rubberised sole.
Editor Verdict:
"While I haven't personally tried these ankle boots, just about every influencer seems to own a pair which is a pretty good endorsement. They sell out regularly and are always in high demand, meaning they're likely a very good investment." - Zoe Anastasiou, Fashion Editor
If you're looking for a subtle way to nod to this season's cowboy boot trend, this option from Mint Velvet should do the trick. The pointed toe shape and silver-tone toe tip offers an understated take on the trend.
Crafted in Spain from luxuriously soft materials, this leather lined boot epitomises party dressing with a modern twist.
A more streamlined take on this season's chunky boot trend, these shoes are a more minimalist option. The sleek shape will go with everything you own, so you can easily pair these longside dresses, skirts and jeans.
This classic pair of Chelsea boots combines durable leather with a chunky rubberised sole. They take comfort and modern day styling into consideration, with elasticated inserts and pull tab detailing.
Uniting heritage codes with an outdoors edge, Gucci's black leather ankle boots are made from canvas with the iconic GG Marmont quilting on the ankle.
For an ankle boot that feels more evening appropriate, a pointed toe and kitten heel can work wonders. These Charles & Keith boots, will pair well with midi skirts and dresses.
A sock boot is the ultimate sleek silhouette. These are made from stretch fabric for a close fit.
"Fitting close to the foot, these Zara boots are perfect to wear under tailored trousers or straight-leg jeans. I personally owned a pair of Zara sock boots for years, and wore them on repeat with so many different outfits." - Zoe Anastasiou, Fashion Editor
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