There's no doubt that Gen Z is poised to solidify its Hollywood takeover any minute now. For starters, they've got 25-year-old Zendaya headlining blockbuster films, 21-year-old Yara Shahidi forming her own kind of activism, and 21-year-old Addison Rae successfully crossing over from TikTok influencer to bona fide celebrity. And that's just the tip of the iceberg.
What do all of these Gen Zers have in common? A great sense of style, of course. Below, I've rounded up five boot trends that are common themes among the youngsters, including Olivia Rodrigo, Willow Smith, Lily-Rose Depp, our October 2020 cover star Emma Chamberlain, and more. Plus, shop the editor-approved fall boots that align with each trend.
1. Extra-Chunky Platform Boots
On Olivia Rodrigo: Omighty top; Unif skirt; Marc Jacobs boots; Crap Eyewear Sweet Leaf Sunglasses ($89)
On Willow Smith: Louis Vuitton coat
On Emma Chamberlain: Alessandra Rich dress; Marc Jacobs boots
On Charlie D'Amelio: Steve Madden Cobra Leather Boots ($160)
Steve Madden will forever be a favorite of 20-somethings.
Jeffrey Campbell continues to churn out great designs.
These knee-high platform boots would look great with a miniskirt and semi-sheer tights.
Prada has also tossed its hat in the ring with these fantastic platforms.
These look strikingly similar to Willow Smith's boots.
You simply can't beat this $36 price tag.
2. Dr. Martens Ankle Boots
On Olivia Rodrigo: The Cure vintage T-shirt; I.Am.Gia Kiki Pants (sold out); Dr. Martens boots
On Addison Rae: Dr. Martens boots
On Hailee Steinfeld: Tre by Natalie Ratabesi jacket; Dr. Martens boots
On Emma Chamberlain: Louis Vuitton bag; Dr. Martens boots
These Dr. Martens will never let you down.
Hurry: Dr. Martens have been selling like crazy at Nordstrom.
I'm also in love with the white versions.
These cozy sherpa-lined boots are so perfect for fall and winter.
3. Lace-Up Knee-High Boots
On Willow Smith: Dr. Martens 1B60 Bex Knee-High Boots ($220)
On Olivia Rodrigo: Raf Simons sweater; H&M Loves Coachella dress; Dr. Martens boots
On Blackpink's Jisoo: Dior jacket, skirt, and boots
These boots look much more expensive than they really are.
You can never go wrong with a classic.
Just in case you're ready to splurge on a luxury designer pair.
At $91, this is the most wallet-friendly pair of the bunch.
Zara is always a good idea.
4. Cowboy Boots
On Lily-Rose Depp: Chanel sunglasses; Levi's shorts
On Addison Rae: Shyanne Dublin Western Boots ($170)
These great boots are available in several other colors as well.
Cowboy boots, but make them fashion.
These are a fantastic, practical choice for everyday wear.
5. Tall, Heeled Black Boots
On Hailee Steinfeld: Louis Vuitton boots
On Yara Shahidi: Alexander McQueen dress, boots, belt, and earrings
Hot tip: Never overlook Mango's excellent shoe selection.
These would look so chic with a flowy midi dress.
On Jordyn Woods: Naked Wardrobe dress
On Addison Rae: Princess Polly tank top; Urban Outfitters skirt; Nasty Gal boots
I have a feeling this perfect pair will sell out quickly at Nordstrom.
In case you aren't up for sky-high heels.
On Chloë Bailey: Jimmy Choo boots
It's safe to say Urban Outfitters is always in tune with Gen Zers.
Another super-cute pair of boots by Jeffrey Campbell.
Next, 6 Date-Night Outfit Ideas to Steal From J.Lo, Megan Fox, and More
-
Katie Holmes Is Already Wearing the Boho Boot Color Trend Fashion People Everywhere Will Wear This FallNot once, but twice.
-
Leopard Print Is Fine, But This Is the Unexpected Shoe Print Fashion People Are Already Wearing on RepeatControversial yet chic.
-
Whenever I'm in Paris, I See This Boot Trend Styled With Minidresses in Every Vintage Shop and Local BistroSorry, ankle boots, but it's not you.
-
Everyone in Los Angeles Knows This Shoe Trend Makes Denim Shorts Look Way CoolerDenim shorts never looked so good.
-
Low-Rise, Lacy, and a Little Bit Delulu: Welcome to the Gen Z Pop Girlie SummerPut your headphones (and miniskirts) on.
-
So Many Celeb-Loved Jeans Are On Major Sale RN—These 29 Are the StandoutsLevi's 501s: a Hollywood go-to.
-
Spotted at Wimbledon: The Anti-Summer Shoe Trend You Don't Usually See in the StandsNever too hot for these.
-
Believe Me—You'll Still Want These 36 Items in 2026 (and '27 and '28)Timeless with a capital T.
