I’m a big fan of boots. While some women choose a designer handbag or a heritage watch as their first major fashion investment; I went with a pair of Khaite knee-high boots in sleek black leather with a slim strap and buckle around the calf. Over the past week, I’ve been researching fall 2025 boot trends as a detective would follow a lead, analyzing roughly 200 runway shows to distinguish between Burberry’s equestrian styles and Gabriela Hearst’s mid-calf cowboy boots. This week, I’m focusing on every fall boot I personally want to buy, from under-$200 pairs from Free People to the splurges I’m considering from Toteme for my Fashion Week looks.
First on my shopping list: Western-style codes were a major theme in fall 2025’s shoe trends, appearing as Cowboy Carter-worthy ankle boots and steel-tipped suede boots that are stylish enough for in-office work outfits. Also to note was the resurgence of 2010s-era sock boots, which I’m preemptively crowning as the most unexpected, underdog shoe trend of fall ‘25. After the return of bandage dresses, now we see body-con footwear, starting with boots that fit like a glove and resemble leather stockings.
Ahead, discover a more comprehensive breakdown on the top trending boots worth inviting into your fall 2025 rotation, hand-picked by a bona fide, capital-B Boot Person who has logged her 10,000 hours of expertise.
(Image credit: Tyler Joe for Marie Claire)
Fall 2025’s Best Boots at a Glance
Free People
Anok Harness Boot
When it comes to the best moto boots, this Free People pair has all the right elements, from the silver hardware harness to pre-worn-in leather.
I can already picture styling these sleek $250 sock boots (look at that curved heel!) with wide-legged trousers and a cinched black blazer.
Tory Burch
Turnlock Riding Boots
Polo Ralph Lauren
Leather Chelsea Western Boot
The classic elastic-side Chelsea boot makes a comeback every fall. I like how this Polo Ralph Lauren adds a Western touch to the signature autumn shoe.
Schutz
Dellia 65mm Snake-Embossed Leather Boots
Schutz’s knee-high boot features rich off-white snakeskin for a bold statement. I’d pair this reptile-inspired knee-high with a fall dress made from dark wool blend.
Free People
Blaze Pull on Boot
This caramel-colored suede boot by Free People with a practical two-inch block heel is a shoe I know I can wear all around Manhattan, from Marie Claire’s midtown office to a dinner downtown.
When I’m truly feeling a yeehaw spirit, these Sam Edelman cow print boots fulfill my cowgirl dreams.
AEYDE
Sila Smooth and Snake-Effect Leather Ankle Boots
There is something incredibly attractive about a sharply pointed-toe boot—especially when it’s crafted in a rich, deep chocolate brown.
Banana Republic
Italian Leather Knee-High Boot
Pairing a dark floral boho blouse with indigo jeans (a top fall denim trend, by the way), these Banana Republic brown suede knee-high boots create a classic fall look.
Frye
‘Harness 12R’ Leather Boot
There’s a strong reason why fashion enthusiasts swear by Frye’s harness boots. The moto-inspired and equestrian style easily pairs with various outfits, such as a lace-trimmed slip skirt or a more preppy look with tailored Bermuda shorts.
COACH
Aria Loved Leather Tall Western Boot
I’ve made my love for Coach’s best bags unmistakably clear, but I haven’t yet shared how much I adore the New York-based leather goods brand’s footwear. Enter: Coach’s dark cherry red cowboy boot.
Free People
Sway Low Slouch Boot
Made of soft, flexible suede, you can scrunch these Free People knee-high boots as much as you like.
Toteme
The Heeled Sock 55mm Leather Boots
Just under $1,000, these Toteme sock boots are the most expensive pair on my wishlist. But given the brand’s reputation for simple style and top-notch craftsmanship, I feel confident that this is an investment I will wear for a long time.
Sam Edelman
Barrett Harness Bootie
Conversely, at just under $100, we have the most affordable boot on my to-buy list: Sam Edelman’s on-trend harness bootie in black leather. They’re a great alternative for when I prefer not to fuss with styling a knee-high boot but still want to try the moto boho trend.
MICHAEL Michael Kors
Noemie Leather Wedge Boots
Magnificently scrunchy boots strutted all over the Fall 2025 runways, and with its wrinkled wedge-heeled knee-high design, Michael Kors’s affordable in-house line makes its debut.
TOPICS
Free People
Banana Republic
