I Used to Think This Boot Trend Looked "Cheap", But Emily Ratajkowski Just Changed My Mind

Emily Ratajkowski stepped out to claim her front-row seat at New York Fashion Week's Proenza Schouler show yesterday wearing an underrated and somewhat controversial shoe trend. Styling a black, pleated leather skirt and low-key sleeveless top, she diverted from a top-to-toe black look by instead selecting tall white boots.
I have to admit that I've always found white boots a little bit cheap-looking, and they've never quite been able to gain the same appreciation as their brown and black counterparts. Perhaps it's their tendency to scuff or blemish, or maybe I've been put off by their over-saturation in the '10s that saw lower-quality pairs dominate the streets. Now though, I'm pleased to see white boots enjoying a reinvention, and it's all thanks to elegant outfit styling like Ratajkowski's.
Making the case for the divisive shoe's revival, Ratajkowski selected a pair of white boots with a slightly slouched silhouette. Injecting a pop of brightness into her monochrome ensemble, she clutched Proenza Schouler's vivid red Park Leather Shoulder Bag (£1,355) and finished off the look with simple silver hoops. This, my friends, is a masterclass on how to look fashion-forward without adopting every trending aesthetic.
Now that white boots are back on the agenda, read on to shop Emily Ratajkowski's outfit, followed by our edit of the chicest white boots for autumn.
SHOP EMILY RATAJKOWSKI'S WHITE-BOOTS OUTFIT:
This lightweight top is perfect for layering throughout the summer-to-autumn transition.
Style with knee-high boots or wear with sleek leather loafers.
SHOP OUR EDIT OF THE BEST WHITE BOOTS:
The kitten heel adds a little height without too much discomfort.
Natalie Munro is Who What Wear UK’s news writer and has worked in the fashion industry since she graduated with a degree in Journalism from the University of the Arts London. Natalie’s experience in the industry spans journalistic and styling roles that have seen her work for publications including British Vogue, Conde Nast Traveller, Vogue Ukraine, AnOther Magazine and Elle UK.
With an interest in uncovering the latest fashion trends, Natalie takes a leading role in identifying news for Who What Wear UK. Reporting on a daily basis, Natalie focuses on trends on and off the runway, as well as street style and celebrity fashion. Natalie also creates content for Who What Wear’s social channels including TikTok and Instagram on a weekly basis.
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