While they may be synonymous with fall and winter, boots are one of our favorite year-round shoe styles. From knee-high silhouettes to ankle skimmer styles and mid-calf cuts, boots are a decidedly versatile wardrobe staple. They can be dressed up or down and are always elegant and party-ready. Whether your goal is to toughen up precious pieces, add interest to a basic fall outfit, or offset a skin-baring silhouette, boots are always up for the job.
Many boot silhouettes transcend the trend cycle (think classics like riding boots and combat boots), but 2021 brings five key styles that compose our edit of new-decade necessities. The best boots of 2021 include knee-high styles and retro platforms as well as utilitarian lug soles with a modern edge. After surveying the spring-summer 2021 designer runways, we’ve earmarked several outfit ideas for the season ahead which have boots at the crux, from casual-chic choices to after-hours styling.
Ahead, discover the best boots of 2021 and the on-trend boot silhouettes at the top of our editors’ shopping lists. From designer classics by Gucci and Prada to fashion-forward styles from new names like Eytys, Nodaleto, and Peter Do, there’s a pair to suit everyone. These elevated boots are more than worth the investment—they’ll guarantee show-stopping style moments this season and beyond.
