As someone who works in fashion, I pay especially close attention to footwear on the runways, and this year's autumn and winter shows had plenty to say about boots. Second skin silhouettes, comfy heels, and ultra rich finishes dominated the catwalks, and sock boots came back with a vengeance for 2026.
Chanel and Calvin Klein traded 2016's sky high stilettos for micro kitten heels and extra tall over the knee boots. Elsewhere, Gucci brought in crocodile embossing, while other luxury brands played with oversized buckles on classic leather.
Dior softened things up with suede, and while everyone was talking about the pared back Western boots at Chloé, I was pleasantly surprised to see the slouch boot making a comeback, too.
What makes the five boot trends below truly special: the silhouettes feel familiar, but the colors and textures are fashion forward enough to walk (ahem!) you straight into next season.
Sock boot
Defined by a pull on design and stocking like silhouette, sock boots swing in the opposite direction of chunkier styles for the sleekest fit possible. Look for stretch leather or flexible knit, both of which feel more like a second skin than fussy footwear. When you have a ...