The Fashion Memo

Why Ankle Boots Are A Perennial Fall Essential

No fall wardrobe is complete without a pair of ankle boots – arguably the most versatile shoe there is. Read on to discover the styles to know now

Words Colleen RossFashion editor Millie Parry
Fashion
Ankle boots go with everything from jeans to diaphanous dresses and midi skirts

Ankle boots are the epitome of French-girl style – and therefore undeniably chic. Effortlessly cool, with just the right amount of polish, they add an air of insouciance to outfits and slot perfectly into every fall trend, making them a timeless, wear-forever staple no wardrobe should be without.

If you’re looking for a perennial pair, a pointed toe is the way to go. Perfect styled with everything from midi skirts to wide-leg tailoring, they’re a fail-safe in every fashion editor’s wardrobe – and will be in yours, too. Take Gianvito Rossi’s ‘Levy’ pair, for instance, which comes in versatile tan suede. Wear them with faded blue denim and a leather jacket for the coolest take. Elsewhere, Jimmy Choo’s leopard-print ‘Frankie’ boots – a NET-A-PORTER exclusive – have a slightly higher heel and look fierce styled with floaty maxi dresses or drainpipe jeans à la Kate Moss.

If it’s your evening look that needs a boost, consider Saint Laurent’s glossy ‘Ashley’ style the perfect accompaniment to everything from tailoring to lingerie dresses and leather skirts. Similarly, Khaite’s ‘Ona’ boots capture a darkly romantic mood in snake-effect leather and look gorgeous paired with enveloping cashmere coats and slouchy tailoring, as seen on the fall/winter ’25 runway. Meanwhile, Chloé’s beloved ‘Susanna’ boots – originally released in 2008 and set for a major comeback this season – feel a touch more casual, toeing the line between boho and rock’n’roll. From our NET SUSTAIN edit, this pair comes in studded red leather that’s sure to make every outfit pop.

For a pair you can comfortably stride around in all day without sacrificing on style, look to brands like Berlin-based Aeyde. From our NET SUSTAIN edit, its ‘Vincent’ boots are crafted in Italy from supple leather in a classic Chelsea silhouette that’ll never date. Alternatively, for something with day-to-night appeal, step out in Paris Texas’ Western-inspired ‘Jane’ boots’ – the chunky block heel promises comfort, while the leg-lengthening pointed toe feels sleek and sophisticated.

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