The leaves are browning, October is upon us, and it's time to pull your neglected boots out from the depths of your wardrobe. Keep them somewhere handy because, for the next few months, you won't want to wear anything else.
In the UK, we're all seasoned experts in wearing boots. Our reliance on hard-wearing footwear means we've tried just about every variation—knee-high, heeled, lace-up and Chelsea. This autumn essential is well loved in all its forms.
You probably already have a pair of flat boots in your collection if for no other reason than they're an easy option when you don't want to think that hard about your outfit. There's no denying that flats are easier to get around in than heels or wedges, and they generally lend themselves better to daily wear, too.
Victoria Magrath wears an oversized blazer and calf-high flat boots at Milan Fashion Week.
But if you're stuck in the loop of wearing flat boots just for convenience's sake and not because they're stylish in their own right, listen up: Flat boots are cool, uncomplicated and can totally make an outfit. It all comes down to styling them with the right items.
If you still don't believe us, scroll down to see this versatile footwear in action. We've collated top-tier ensembles from recent Fashion Weeks and some of our favourite influencers to demonstrate how to style flat boots.
1. Wool Coat + Leather Shorts + Knee-High Boots
Style Notes: This look by Katherine Ormerod is ticking all the trend boxes. The flat-boot silhouette will also elongate your legs, especially if you choose a black pair.
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It's worth having a coat in your collection that isn't black or camel.
There are so many impressive faux-leather options out there these days, so everyone can get involved in the trend.
Hands up if you have a boot obsession. Me, too. But I might have to add this Matrix-esque pair to my repertoire.
2. Slouchy Jumper + Wide-Leg Trousers + Pointed Boots
Style Notes: This look is so easy to re-create. Pair black wide-leg trousers or jeans with a striped knit, and add pointed boots for a bit of polish.
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This feels like a fresh take on the striped-jumper trend.
Our entire team has their eyes on these trousers.
These boots have the perfect ankle height and pointed-toe shape as far as I'm concerned.
3. Shacket + Straight-Leg Jeans + Sock Boot
Style Notes: I'm largely a trends-adverse dresser, and I constantly look to Lizzy Hadfield for outfit guidance. This ensemble is easy to re-create and wear any day of the week.
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This is the kind of layer you don't have to think about. It's a strong outfit starting point, so you can keep everything else super simple.
Classic cut, classic wash. Sounds like my kind of jeans.
This is the same pair Lizzy wears, and she's noted just how comfortable they are.
4. Cable-Knit Crewneck + Miniskirt + Embellished Boots
Style Notes: Flat boots definitely don't have to be boring. Take notes from this effortlessly cool CPFW attendee and step out in a chain-adorned pair, keeping the rest of the look miminal.
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Toast's homely knitwear makes me want to curl up with a book and a cup of tea.
Shorter hemlines can be made autumn-appropriate with the quick addition of 40 denier tights.
Wellies, but make them fancy.
5. Quilted Jacket + Ecru Jeans + Chelsea Boot
Style Notes: Quilted jackets are in the spotlight; not only do they look cool, but fashion people have realised how practical and comfortable they are. Embrace these traits and team with a similarly practical and comfortable boot like Jessica Skye has.
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Cold-weather ready. Plus, those deep pockets mean you don't need to bring a bag for the dog walk or errand run.
Ecru jeans are fast becoming a wardrobe staple.
Once you break these in, they'll be your go-to boots. Trust me.
This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
Next: I Just Know These H&M, Mango and Arket Boots Will Sell Out First