All the Chunky Boots and Loafers We Are Obsessed With Right Now

When it comes to footwear this year, the general rule is the chunkier, the better. In summer, many of us lived in Teva sandals and chunky two-strap sandals, and for winter, our soles are about to get even thicker. Last year, track-sole boots were the coolest things to have on your feet, thanks to designers like Bottega Veneta and The Row, who gave the Chelsea boot a tougher makeover with thick, sturdy soles. These stomping boots are destined to be even more popular this year, as designers like Prada and Bottega Veneta have continued to iterate on these practical chunky boots, and they have also been the dominant footwear trend across contemporary and high-street brands this autumn/winter.
There are still dozens of chunky ankle boots and Chelsea boot styles around. However, designers like Prada and Bottega Veneta have also made knee-length and over-the-knee boots with a chunky sole for those wanting a statement-making take. Proenza Schouler is one of the brands behind our chunky sandals obsession, and it has also made us crave a pair of school girl-esque Mary Jane pumps with a statement silver clasp, stitching, and a chunky sole. These aren't the only pair of sturdy loafers we're eyeing up, as Gucci, Grenson, and Miu Miu have so many beautiful pairs.
Whether you opt for ankle boots, taller styles, or a pair of chunky loafers, the one thing all of these shoes have in common is that they are hugely practical and made to endure a high step count. Keep scrolling to see our edit of the best chunky boots and loafers.
Loafers:
These chunky loafers all have a school-girl charm, from Proenza Schouler's Mary Janes to Gucci's platforms.
Chelsea Boots:
Bottega Veneta sparked this trend, and now, we're truly spoilt for choice when it comes to chunky Chelsea boots.
Knee-High/Over-the-Knee Boots:
These tall boots are for the more adventurous dressers out there, and standout styles include Bottega Veneta's ivory over-the-knee boots and & Other Stories' quilted leather boots.
Next up, See our guide to the key trends for autumn/winter 2021.
Emma is a freelance fashion editor with over 15 years experience in industry, having worked at The Telegraph, Grazia and, most recently, British Vogue. Emma was part of the founding team of Who What Wear UK, where she worked for six years as Deputy Editor and then Editor—helping shape the team into what it is today is one of the biggest privileges of her career and she will always see herself as a Who What Wear girl, contributing to both the US and UK sites. Whether she's writing about runway trends or spotlighting emerging brands, she aims to write about fashion in a way that is democratic and doesn't promote over consumption.
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