7 Boot Trends the High Street Has Downright Nailed for Autumn

When it comes to boots—actually, all shoes—I always tend to buy them from the high street. Being as hard on shoes as I am (something that, even though I'm a 32-year-old adult, my mum still has to tell me off for), investing in super-premium footwear just isn't a wise investment for me. Still, I never feel like I'm missing out, as the high street reliably manages to tick off all the biggest trends in swift succession to the runway. So I never feel behind. 

That said, this autumn/winter, I feel like the high street's lapping the designers with its offering of excellent boots, which has been growing stronger by the week. 

Sya wears a pair of tan track-sole boots from Zara.

Now that we're fully immersed in the depths of winter, now is the time to update your boot collection, if you haven't already done so. Not only will they be the item you reach for well into 2023, but they'll also help make all your clothing feel more winter-appropriate. 

Recently, a fresh dose of boots landed at a host of brands—everyone from Marks and Spencer to & Other Stories—and I feel spoilt for choice. Having taken time to analyse the styles, I can now conclude that there are seven high-street boot trends that are really worth taking note of right now, which I've handily laid out for you below. 

Editor Emma Spedding wears a pair of knee boots from Marks and Spencer. 

With everything from chunky knee-high to elevated lace-up all the way to achingly cool cowboy, here are the seven high-street boot trends I love. I have a feeling you will, too. 

1. TALL & CLUNKY

Track-sole boots were a big deal last winter, and this season, they've had an update. Instead of sitting around the mid-calf, they've been elongated to the knee. 

2. COWBOY ANKLE GRAZERS

You heard it here first—cowboy boots are back for the season ahead, and personally, I'm overjoyed. I'll be wearing them with my leather separates now, then my lightweight dresses once spring arrives. 

3. SOCK SILHOUETTE

Sleek and versatile, sock boots are my go-to for pairing with going-out clothes, as their fitted silhouette always makes them feel glam. I also enjoy wearing them with miniskirts, as they create a seam-free look on the leg, helping to elongate my petite frame. 

4. FLAT HIKER

I've worn my hiker boots into the ground over the last few winters, so I'm on the hunt for a replacement pair. To freshen things up, I might opt for a tan or beige hue.

5. FRESH WHITE

Not as harsh as black and just as versatile as tan, white boots make for the perfect alternative boot option. Not only will they keep your feet warm when the temperatures are anything, but they'll also go beautifully with all of your lighter-hued clothes. 

6. KITTEN HEELS

While I used to be all about high heels, these last two years have taken their toll on my tolerance levels. Fortunately, there are lots of kitten-heel boots cropping up, which I think hold the same appeal as taller styles. 

7. LACE-UP

This is perhaps one of my favourite boot trends of all time, and the high street is surpassing itself with its lace-up boots this season. On my wish list is this black pair from DuoBoots. 

This post was originally published at an earlier time and has since been updated. Next Up: Autumn/Winter 2022 Trends: The 15 Fashion Looks You Need to Know About

Opening Images: @mimi.orere; @syanalaniyan; @pernilleteisbaek; @speddingemma