Put Away Your Sandals—These 5 Autumn Boot Trends Are Capturing Our Interest Right Now

      As one season concludes and another begins, the focus on what to wear is a priority for me as a fashion editor, particularly when it comes to boots. While summer tends to highlight lighter fabrics and minimal silhouettes, this transition calls for styles that are more appropriate for cooler temperatures. Whether it’s a casual loafer or a classic boat shoe, "liberating the foot" is best saved for a heatwave. Personally, I find that a chic boot is the most sensible choice. I’m not referring to the heavy, weathered boots you trudged through February with, or the shearling-lined pair that got you through last December. The boot trends emerging from the autumn/winter 2026 runways are fresher, cooler, and much more intentional than ever. These boots not only seamlessly extend your warm-weather wardrobe but also provide that rare blend of practicality and style, making autumn dressing all the more appealing. Whether you’re drawn to boots that are flat and functional or something more festive for the party season, I’ve outlined the six most significant boot trends for 2026. Rest assured: these styles will remain relevant for several autumns to come.

      **The 5 Most Important Autumn Boot Trends for 2026**

      1. **Knees Up**

       Knee-high boots may not be a novel concept, but this season they’re rising well above the knee to thigh-high heights. They pair beautifully with both miniskirts and slim-fit jeans, making this versatile silhouette suitable for everything from casual shopping (perhaps a flat-soled version) to channeling your inner Sienna Miller on a Paris trip. Whether you choose a cozy, lined style like those from Chloe or a more rugged, dominatrix-inspired boot from Isabel Marant, ultra-tall boots are leading the pack in 2026. Sorry, ankle boots.

       **Shop Over-the-Knee Boots:**

       - **H&M**: Known for their comfort.

       - **Holland Cooper**: The Sloane Over the Knee Boot pairs nicely with skinny jeans and a plaid jacket for that quintessential countryside style.

       - **Allsaints**: The Roxanne Knee High Boots reinvent cowboy boots.

       - **MANOLO BLAHNIK**: Gore 30 Suede Over-The-Knee Boots feature an adjustable fit that accommodates wide calves.

       - **Whistles**: The Inessa Over the Knee Boot is perfect for styling with a party skirt and tank top this autumn.

      2. **Bringing Back Boho**

       Following Chemena Kamali's debut as creative director for Chloé in the autumn/winter 2024 collection, modern bohemia is officially making a comeback. You may wonder how this translates to boot trends. What could be more boho than a slouchy boot? With relaxed proportions, this laid-back style is set to dominate this autumn. With a hint of Vivienne Westwood and a dash of Captain Hook, Sinead Gorey styled suede boots with playful argyle-print tights, infusing bohemian looks with early 2000s vibes, while Chloé embraced romance with lovely pink princess skirts. The standout boot of the season is undoubtedly Masha Popova's unique moody blue hue—an undeniable statement piece.

       **Shop Slouched Boots:**

       - **ASOS DESIGN**: The Rive Slouch Boots look chic paired with a blouse and a distressed denim skirt.

       - **GIANVITO ROSSI**: The Elise 85 Suede Boots cleverly combine elegance with slouch.

       - **Free People**: The Off Script Slouch Boots are available in sumptuous chocolate browns.

       - **MANGO**: The Ruched Leather Heeled Ankle Boot offers great value for leather.

      3. **Witchy Wonders**

       If you're seeking a boot with extra flair, consider the whimsically witchy style. More reminiscent of Practical Magic than Sabrina the Teenage Witch, this trend first emerged as a microtrend in the autumn/winter 2025 shows, thanks to designers like McQueen and Ann Demeulemeester. The Victoriana-inspired style was prominently featured on the 2026 runways, including Prada's fanciful feathered options. Boots with exaggerated pointed toes, lace (or button) closures, and corset designs are undoubtedly enchanting.

       **Shop Witchy Boots:**

       - **Miista**: No one does a witch boot quite like them.

       - **Free People**: Sweet Talker Lace-Up Boots feature a cool square toe.

       - **Bershka**: Peep Toe Corset Heeled Boots bring a unique twist to witchy footwear.

      4. **Pretty in Print**

       Animal prints like leopard, deer, python, or croc are here to stay. However, as we enter autumn 2026, the way we wear them is evolving. Traditionally associated with maximalism, this