In 2025, boots are becoming the defining piece in every wardrobe. From sleek knee-highs to bold biker styles and laid-back slouch designs, they anchor any outfit with effortless style and structure. This season, boots aren’t just footwear – they’re the foundation of a well-curated look.

Knee-High

Once a seasonal staple, knee-high boots have evolved into a year-round essential, reaffirming their importance in 2025.

This year’s styling of knee-high boots leans toward clean lines and understated elegance. A classic black leather knee-high paired with a tailored midi dress in wool or cashmere creates a sleek, confident silhouette. For added interest, consider a printed or metallic boot peeking out from beneath a longer skirt.

Image: Mi Piaci | Billie Knee High Boot | $580.00

While wearing denim (an Autumn staple), a straight, full-length jean that gently drapes over the boot creates an intentionally relaxed and ‘unfussy’ finish. Alternatively, tuck in high-waisted straight-leg jeans for a more structured look that’s perfect for both office and weekend outings.

Much like a trench coat or structured handbag, knee-high boots serve as both a statement and an essential piece in a capsule wardrobe. They add structure to an outfit and make day-to-day dressing feel purposeful and complete.

Mi Piaci | Arden Knee High Boot | $600.00
Merchant 1948 | Brenner Knee High Boot | $459.90
Mi Piaci | Madera Knee High Boot | $560.00

Equestrian

Building on their timeless appeal, equestrian-inspired knee-high boots offer a more grounded take on the trend; elegant without being excessive.

This season, flat or low-heeled leather styles are making a strong return, offering everyday elegance without the formality of a high heel. Classic riding silhouettes balance structure with ease, ideal for those seeking a more wearable option.

Tuck slim trousers or skinny jeans neatly into the boot for a streamlined look, or pair with a soft A-line midi skirt and a cable-knit sweater for a country-side inspired look that’s still city-appropriate.

Merchant 1948 | Elisa Wide Knee High Boot | $439.90
Merchant 1948 | Cameron Long Boot | $449.90

Slouch

Slouchy boots offer a relaxed alternative to more structured silhouettes, with their unstructured fit and soft, gathered upper introducing movement and texture to any ensemble.

This season’s slouchy styles create a refined bohemian feel, especially in rich chestnut browns and warm, earthy tones. Suede finishes emphasise the softness that give the boots an easy, lived-in character, pairing beautifully with dresses or slim trousers. The unstructured fit adds comfort and flexibility while the natural folds lend visual depth. 

Image: Merchant 1948 | Scrunch Ankle Boot | $369.90

Whether dressed up with a heel or kept low and casual, these boots bring a quiet ease that complements both elevated and everyday looks. A flowy blouse with belted high-waisted pants would give these boots a more feminine, relaxed appearance, making them perfect for a lunch date or weekend gathering.

Moto

Biker boots add a grounded edge to even the most polished wardrobes. They offer a bold contrast to softer, more elegant pieces while injecting strength and purpose into any outfit.

This season, the focus is on detail, with elements like studded accents, sturdy buckles, and quality leather that give each pair a distinctive edge. Rather than being a statement of rebellion, they work to balance more delicate or structured items – a tailored coat, a slip dress, or a crisp blouse. The result is chic and effortless, with a touch of toughness.

Mid-calf styles are especially relevant, providing a fresh, balanced proportion that feels modern. Pair them with wide-leg trousers or layered under a sleek wool coat, and they effortlessly create a strong yet refined look. Biker boots anchor an outfit, adding dimension and depth to every ensemble, from denim to dresses, and bringing lasting versatility with a timeless edge.

Image: Merchant 1948 | Harley Ankle Boot | $479.90

Mischief Shoes | Viguera Spain Luc Boot | $329.90
Merchant 1948 | Blake Ankle Boot | $349.90
Mischief Shoes | Bresley NZ Pringle Ankle Boot | $279.90

Ankle

While knee-highs and biker boots may command attention this season, ankle boots continue to hold their ground as a reliable, stylish staple. In 2025, they’ve evolved into a versatile essential – perfect for structuring a look or softening it, depending on the style.

Image: Merchant 1948 | Wyatt Ankle Boot | $329.90

Today’s ankle boots are far from one-note. A pointed-toe heel in smooth leather brings clarity to wide-leg trousers, offering definition without overpowering the rest of the outfit. Square-toe styles, meanwhile, introduce a subtle edge that pairs well with softer silhouettes like midi skirts or wool culottes. And when worn with flared or straight-leg jeans that graze the boot’s top, they create a clean line that’s both deliberate and polished.

Image: Mi Piaci | Usher Ankle Boot | $380.00

Ankle boots are more than just a wardrobe filler,  they shape the overall feel of an outfit. Whether grounding more feminine styles or providing contrast to structured tailoring, ankle boots in their many variations are proving to be essential to the modern wardrobe. 

Mi Piaci | Uma Ankle Boot | $380.00
Merchant 1948 | Sera Ankle Boot | $319.90

Boots have firmly established themselves as the cornerstone of a thoughtfully styled wardrobe. Essential and timeless, they anchor every outfit with their versatility. No longer just footwear,  boots are integral to shaping a complete look this season. 

Like the shoes you’ve seen in this Trend Report?

Browse our gorgeous shoe store at Milford Centre.


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