Sorry, Ankle Boots—This Is the Shoe Fashion People Are Relying On This Winter

For the longest time, I only had eyes for block-heel ankle boots; no other boot style got a look in. However, a few years ago, I invested in the first knee-high boots I’d had since my teens, and they were a game changer. Aside from jeans, I very rarely wear trousers. Nine times out of 10, you’ll catch me wearing a midi dress. And after years of enduring chilly calves and not-quite-right hemlines and boot heights, knee boots swooped in and made every outfit (read: dress) I wore so much chicer and more put-together.

Now, I currently own four pairs of knee-high boots: an on-trend chunky pair from M&S, which I bought as soon as I saw them on a colleague; a beige suede option from Sézane, which I invested in hoping it would make my clothes feel a little more French; a basic black pair that I pull on whenever I’m in a rush; and a burgundy set, which I snapped up last year in an attempt to bestow my winter wares with a bit of colour. They’ve all enjoyed a handful of wears already this year, and I know they’ll make me feel at my most stylish, even in the depths of winter.

As for outfits with knee-high boots, there’s no shortage of inspiration out there. Like me, influencers seem to be wearing little else on their feet right now, so I’ve rounded up all of my favourite looks in one place for you to peruse (and shop) at your leisure. From the skirts to denim, scroll on to see nine outfits with knee-high boots I rate.

1. KNITTED MIDI DRESS + MATCHING BAG

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(Image credit: @anoukyve)

Style Notes: Knitted dresses can err on feeling casual, but adding a pair of knee boots—especially shiny, patent ones—instantly elevates them for more glossy occasions.

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2. SLIP SKIRT + SUEDE

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(Image credit: @monikh)

Style Notes: I first bookmarked this chic outfit from Monikh Dale a while ago, but it still holds up for 2024. While slip skirts might feel summery, there’s no need to pack them away when you have a pair of knee boots and some suede outerwear at your disposal. 

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3. TRENCH COAT + MINI SKIRT

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(Image credit: @annelauremais)

Style Notes: I’m petite, and one of my favourite tricks for making me look that little bit taller is wearing heeled knee-high boots with a shorter hem to make legs look longer. 

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4. STRIPED KNIT + LEATHER MINI

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(Image credit: @_jessicaskye)

Style Notes: A striped knit is a great investment, and I love how Jessica has style her oversized version with a mini skirt and flat suede boots. Just add tights and thermals underneath to make this outfit winter-proof. 

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5. SHARP SUITING + SIMPLE SILHOUETTE

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(Image credit: @thestylestalkercom)

Style Notes: Tucking your jeans into boots is one thing, but a pair of suit trousers? This member of the street style set has convinced me to give this suited look a whirl. 

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6. KNITTED MAXI DRESS + LEATHER TRENCH

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(Image credit: @annabelrosendahl)

Style Notes: Nothing feels more seasonally appropriate than knitwear and leather. Being a dress sort of person, I plan on re-creating this outfit ASAP.

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7. DENIM DRESS + CREAM KNIT

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(Image credit: @chiarasatelier)

Style Notes: Chiara has convinced me that I need a denim dress to pair with my tan knee-high boots. I love how she's added a cosy cream knit on top to make this look cold-weather appropriate. Delightful!

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8. CHUNKY KNIT + MIDI SKIRT

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(Image credit: @frannfyne)

Style Notes: You can't beat a cable knit jumper. Fact. And I love how Frann has layered hers over a casual check shirt and midi skirt. This look is also proof brown is the new black this season. 

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9. CLASSIC JEANS + BLACK LEATHER

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(Image credit: @lindatol_)

Style Notes: Classic vintage-wash denim and edgy black leather is my favourite outfit combination. Throw in a pair of knee-high boots in an expensive-looking mock-croc finish, and this is a look I’d gladly wear on repeat during winter. Thanks for the inspo, Linda Tol. 

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Next Up: Suddenly, Everyone Is Wearing This Comfy Boot Trend—Here's How It Took Over

This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated. 

Maxine Eggenberger
Deputy Editor

Maxine Eggenberger is Who What Wear UK’s deputy editor and has over twelve years of experience in fashion journalism. She been creating engaging and elevated style content for Who What Wear UK since 2018, covering runway reports, emerging trends, long-form features, self-styled shopping stories, and columns, including her edit of the best new-in buys. She ensures the highest editorial standards are met across the site, works closely with influencer talent on content initiatives, represents the brand at industry events, and regularly contributes to social media. Previously, Maxine appeared on TV in her own fashion segment and has interviewed countless celebrities—everyone from Victoria Beckham to Oscar winner Lupita Nyong’o. 


Prior to Who What Wear UK, Maxine’s career began when, after completing her first-ever internship, she was offered a position on the Look magazine fashion desk. She accepted, leaving university a year early in the process. She went on to become the title's fashion news and commercial content editor, with a stint as InStyle.co.uk’s fashion writer along the way. She later served as Look’s acting Editor in Chief before embarking on a successful freelance career, working with Grazia, The Pool, and Marie Claire amongst others. Maxine works remotely from her countryside home near Edinburgh.