10 Christmas Outfit Suggestions

 It's Boot Season, and These Are the Trends That Will Dominate

After a long and patient wait, it's finally here. And no, I'm not referring specifically to autumn, but instead, each year, I count down to the best season of all: boot season. It's that perfect time of year that's just cool enough to layer up, but there's still a little sun. Not too much wind, but just the right amount of crispness in the air to warrant shoes that are a little more substantial than sandals. And now, after wearing a scarf for the first time this year, I can confirm we're in the swing of autumn, and the first thing on your shopping list should be a good pair of boots to see you through the next six months and beyond.

In my opinion, there's nothing chicer than a simple, understated outfit with statement boots, and after racking up a collection of knee-highs, combats, lace-ups, and ankle boots, I've tried on enough shoes to know which go the distance. But no matter how well you might have curated your wardrobe, a trend-led pair of boots can bring every other item you own bang up to date, so if you're looking for an easy way to refresh your wardrobe, I've put together a comprehensive guide on all of the autumn/winter boot trends that you need to know about now.

Fashion month is always a heady mix of the wonderful, the wearable, and the downright wacky, but out of the hundreds of pairs to make their way down the New York, London, Milan, and Paris runways, a few key trends have risen to the top. Whether you're a high-heel devotee or a chunky-boot fan, there's a little something for everyone among this season's key trends, and you can rest assured that unlike some of the flash-in-the-pan fashion trends we've seen come and go, a good pair of boots will be just as good in a year's time as they are now. So without further ado, keep scrolling for seven of the most noteworthy boot trends of A/W 22.

1. TOUGH AS NEW BOOTS

Style Notes: After spring pastels and summer brights, there's a rebel attitude in the air, and it comes with some edgy new accessories. This season the cool kids are wearing tough boots with some even tougher hardware. Think buckles, studs, and steel caps best worn with "pretty" coats and skirts to full effect. 

2. THE WILD WEST 

Style Notes: It's likely you've already spotted this trend in the wild, as the cowboy boot has been back in full force since Ganni's embroidered boot landed earlier this year. It's time to saddle up in the best leather and suede ankle and knee-high boots that are the perfect accompaniment to this season's knits and denim. 

3. THIGH'S THE LIMIT 

Style Notes: When it comes to boots this season, it's clear that bigger really does mean better, and after the year that gave us the return of the micro miniskirt, over-the-knee boots are rising to the occasion. Knee-high boots have been enjoying a resurgence for the last few months as we packed away our summer sandals, but now it's time to turn up the volume with an ultra-long, over-the-knee boot that reaches all the way up to the mid-thigh.

4. SOCKS APPEAL 

Style Notes: Remember the Balenciaga Knife boots? The Vetements' ankle boots with the lighter heel? The glossy Dior PVC boots with the Perspex heel? You might not have thought about them for a while, but the chances are you do remember them (as these unforgettable boots went viral when they were released), but the sock boot is now back with an understated new look. Not only does this style score highly in the style stakes, but it's also a wearable trend that we're happy to welcome. What could be more comfortable than a soft, stretchy sock with a modest heel? 

5. TAKE A HIKE 

Style Notes: Grab your boots and head for the great outdoors. These boots are made for walking. Sure, they may look like they fall into the "ugly" category, but we already have embraced Birkenstock, chunky Velcro, and fisherman sandals, so I think we're on to something here. Just add ribbed socks and an oversized shearling jacket, and you're covered for anything the great British weather can throw at you. 

6. GIVE IT SOME WELLY

Style Notes: Wait, is that rain? Well, if you live in the UK, it almost certainly is, but fear not. The wellington boot has undergone a fashionable makeover. Big, chunky-soled welly-inspired boots were one of the more unexpected shoe trends to stomp down the runways this season, and while it might be a controversial choice, there's no denying their practicality. Whether you're dodging puddles or dancing the night away at a festival, it's time to hang up your Hunters and invest in a supersized fashion rain boot. Just don't expect any rubber. 

7. THE FRESH PRINTS 

Style Notes: Animal prints! Jacquard! Logomania! It's all fair game if want your shoes to make a statement. This isn't a trend for wallflowers, as, by their nature, printed boots stand out from the crowd. But if a head-to-toe print isn't quite your thing (sorry, Dries Van Noten), these boots are the pop of color—well, print—that an all-black ensemble needs to feel that much more fashion-forward.