There are certain trends that always come back into fashion at the start of a specific season — and amongst them are ankle boots for fall. Just like tartan, patent leather, and corduroy, ankle boots are hopping off the fashion carousel yet again, just in time for the changing of the leaves.
For fall 2015, ankle boots are following in the footsteps of other current trends, meaning there are plenty of '60s and '70s-inspired boots and velvet styles galore. They've also taken a somewhat bondage-themed turn, with styles such as Christian Dior's minxy, skin tight boots with transparent pink heels, Carvela's shiny shoes with a revealing zip down the front, and Dorateymur's bubblegum pink, second skin style boots. If you're looking for something a little less saucy, there are also plenty of amazing androgynous styles out there, such as Givenchy's buckled-up biker boots, Christopher Kane's seemingly masculine boots with their juxtaposing luxe details, or Manolo Blahnik's traditionally feminine piratical, pointed boots complete with decadent buckles.
Unsure of what to pair your new ankle boots with? Take style tips from the fashion savvy crowd of London Fashion Week, many of whom wore their ankle boots with cropped trousers in a variety of styles and combos. If you're not really a pants gal, you're in luck, too: Ankle boots and legs wrapped up in stylish tights go together like peanut butter and jelly.
So get pounding the pavements in style this fall in a pair of gorgeous ankle boots. Here are my nine favorites.
1. The Cowgirl Boots
Daisy Street Black Buckle Western Ankle Boots, $24, Asos
Wild West style is a great way to transition from summer to fall, as you can elongate the wear of your favorite gingham garments from summer by pairing them with cropped jeans and ankle boots instead of short shorts.
2. The '70s Platform Boots
Holly '70s Chunky Ankle Boots, $130, Nordstrom
These boots are for all the fashion forward folks out there, as they cleverly fuse together two big trends of the moment. You'll be repping the '70s trend via the chunky platform and suede, plus the much loved Chelsea boot trend that seems like it's here to stay this autumn. I imagine the stylish Daphne Blake would be lusting after a pair of these.
3. The Scarlet Snakeskin Style Pair
Envious Of You Pointed Chelsea Ankle Boots, $48, Asos
I adore red, especially in autumn when the bright color palette of summer seems like a thing of the past. This scarlet shade will cut through the dull, often monotonous shades of autumn/winter. Its faux snakeskin panels and pointed heel will show the world that you mean business.
4. The Blue Suede Boots
Hinkley Loafer Boots, $170, Topshop
These gorgeous, blue suede shoes scream high end but luckily come with a far more affordable price tag. You should probably invest in a suede protector to keep these boots good as new this fall. After all, you don't want to have to do an Elvis and start belting "Blue Suede Shoes" just to keep people from stepping on your lovely tootsies.
5. The Fringed Ankle Boots
Faith Swift Tan Fringed Western Boots, $37, Asos
If you're a fan of Boho style, you may just fall head over heels for these sweet, fringed shoes that would look great alongside many ensembles — from jeans to long-sleeved dresses with tights.
6. The Patent Chelsea Boots
Mary '60s Patent Chelsea Boots, $140, Topshop
These ankle boots lend a classic Chelsea boot style an autumnal edge by giving them a patent makeover. The sumptuous, chestnut color is also sure to go down a storm this fall.
7. The Quirky Boot For Lovers Of Poker
Poker Joker, $199, Irregular Choice
If you're after something a little different this fall, go all in with these poker-inspired ankle boots. IMO, the boot design itself is reminiscent of swashbuckling, female pirates with its large eyelets and corset style ribbon laces. The jet black shade and faux suede finish mean that these boots are placed firmly in the autumn/winter category while the dicey heel is a super fun, stylish statement.
8. The Hot Pink Peep Toe Boots
ASOS Entry Shoe Boots, $39, Asos
Fancy something a little flirtatious this fall? You'll adore these fuchsia colored, peep toe ankle boots with their foxy little zips down the front. Elle Woods would totally own these shoes.
9. The My Little Pony Ankle Boots
My Little Pony Merry Go Bootie By Iron Fist, $100, Heels
If someone asked 10-year-old me what kind of shoes I would wear as a grown up, she would probably come up with something like this. These My Little Pony -inspired ankle boots are totally epic. The illustrations also seem inspired by the original MLP artwork, and the grooved platform should help you avoid slipping on the wet, leaf-laden pavements of autumn.
Now that they're decked out in everything from ponies to '70s Boho detailing, ankle boots are sure to be our go-to statement-maker this season.
Images: Courtesy Brands
