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The best knee-high boots of the year
Whether teamed with midi skirts or slim-fitting trousers, a pair of knee-skimming boots is the best way to ground your autumn wardrobe
You just can't beat bundling up in all those cosy essentials. Right about now, it's likely you're digging out your trusty winter coats, dry-cleaning those cashmere jumpers, and scouring the stores for that perfect pair of knee-high boots.
The knee-high boot is always in favour with the fashion set, which is great news for all as they are warmer and more polished than an ankle boot, yet far easier to style than over-the-knee alternatives. Whether paired with your staple slip skirt, worn dressed up in the evening or teamed simply with a chunky knit and casual jeans at the weekend, the humble knee-high is a great addition to any capsule wardrobe, working to instantly elevate any look.
If you're looking to invest in a wintery hero piece with longevity, don't be blinded by statement, trend-led styles and instead opt for a forever pair you're sure to come back to year after year. Steer clear from 'of the moment' colours and styles, setting your sights firmly on the pair that best speaks to your personal style. With that said, versatility doesn't have to mean boring; choose from the classic block heel to the sexier, skinnier stiletto, opt for snakeskin or crocodile embossing for tactile impact, or succumb to the whimsy of cowboy detailing.
Below, we round up the best knee-high boots to consider for the new season.
The best knee-high boots to shop now
Plush velvets and seasonal shades may abound at Manu Atelier this season, but we think it’s this classic black pair that you’ll get the most wear out of. Reflecting the brand’s supreme craftsmanship, they’re shaped with a sharply pointed toe (which never fails to look chic) and detailed with a slender buckle across the front. Let the gloss finish bring life to all-black looks.
The shape of St. Agni’s knee-length boots is new-season perfection. Note the covered leather heel (high enough to add impact, low enough to wear all day) and the flat top edge that ends beneath the knee for ease of movement. Classicists will head straight for the black iteration, but we’re imagining this soft snakeskin with creamy neutral separates.
A short and stubby kitten heel ticks both the style and practicality boxes this season. Massimo Dutti’s velvety suede boots will prove so comfortable, you’ll barely want to take them off.
This not-quite-cowboy boot is perfect for anyone who wants a fresh autumn investment that doesn’t veer into costume territory. Appropriate for both work and play, they’re made from smooth calf leather with a practical block heel and rounded top that hits just below the knee (ideal for skirts and trousers alike).
Balenciaga's Cagole handbag is a fashion-editor favourite, and now the Cagole boots are destined to be to. The style features decorative hardware, an extremely pointy tip and heel and statement zips.
A white boot is a great investment because its such an effortless transitional shoe. Whether worn with floral dresses in the summer or denim in the winter, these boots will add instant glamour to your look.
Paris Texas might be known for its perilously thin stiletto heels, but the brand’s Anja boot proves it can do comfort just as well. Set on a chunky block heel, the Anja boot comes in crocodile-effect leather for AW24 – perfect for adding textural interest to minimalist looks. Try them with bare legs, opaque tights, and tucked-in, skin-tight trousers.
Toteme is the brand leading the leopard-print charge this autumn, and with Hailey Bieber already having been spotted in the brand’s trophy coat, we expect the collection to vanish rapidly. These corresponding boots come with a directional wide shaft that not only ensures a comfortable fit, but doubles the impact too: wear them with bare legs or tucked-in trousers legs.
Sitting somewhere between a western and a riding style, Hobbs' boots (which are, rather surprisingly, on sale right now) make for a versatile pair loaded with practicality. Call on them for working days (with layers of cashmere) and easy weekends (with denim and a camel coat).
With a low comma-shaped heel (the detail of the season) and a glossy crocodile-effect finish, Khaite’s knee-high boots tick off more than one key trend, yet have legs to last well beyond this winter. Consider them an investment piece with instant impact.
Saint Laurent's Oxalis boots are party perfect. The style was first debuted on the spring/summer 2024 catwalk, and immediately became a hit thanks to its sheer mesh finish and super pointy toes.
If it's a practical pair of boots you're after, look to Tod's. The brand's leather knee-highs come with a round toe and chunky flat sole that will be comfortable to stomp around in all day long.
With an almond toe and curved heel, Staud’s Cami boots offer a softer stance on a classic silhouette. Keep the elegance going with a pair of translucent tights and long, cocooning coat.
A subtle nod to the unending Western trend, these soft suede boots are smartened up with a stiletto heel and discreet tonal stitching.
We love this Sixties-inspired style by Tory Burch with a capped toe and chunky block heel. Wear with your Christmas party dress now and team with skinny jeans tucked in come the New Year.
