Let’s face it – the right boots for women can make or break an ensemble. You’re in a T-shirt and jeans; put on a good boot and you’ve got a stylist in your back pocket. Boots are the one shoe staple that is essential for any occasion – be it brunch, work or running errands.
This year’s boots are more stylish, functional and comfortable. To save you the search, we’ve rounded up the 15 best of 2016 – from the streamlined ankle boot to flashy knee-high boots – so you can get your feet in the right boots without the stress.
This year’s best women’s boots are the square-toe ankle boot, the cowboy boot, the lug-sole Chelsea, the over-the-knee heeled boot and the minimalist knee-high boot. These are the top choices on catwalks and the street.
Boots: a wardrobe essential
While fashion trends come and go, a good pair of boots never goes out of style. In fact, reports in the footwear industry show boots are consistently the top three best-selling category in women’s footwear – and 2026 is no different. Not only are they worth the investment for their versatility: you can wear the same boots from brunch with friends to the office.
The best women’s boots for 2016
1. Square-toe ankle boot
The square-toe ankle boot was all the rage in the late 2010s and has now become a mainstay. The square toe is on trend and looks stylish without looking “too much”. Wear with flared trousers or midi skirts.
2. Western cowboy boot
Western boots are more popular than ever. Featuring highly ornate stitching, a high-heeled stack and a pointed or slightly rounded toe, they offer a unique look. And they’re a great match for dresses and shorts, too.
3. Lug-sole Chelsea boot
This Chelsea-style boot – slip-on, elastic, sleek, and laced – is given a rough edge with a lug-sole. The lug-sole Chelsea is one of the most versatile women’s boots: it’s easy to slip on, weatherproof and goes with leggings, sneakers, skinny jeans and more.
4. Over-the-knee heeled boot
If you’re looking for a boot to wear out or to make a statement, the over-the-knee is the boot for you. For 2016, see them in deep colours such as burgundy, chocolate brown, forest green, to be paired with a short skirt, or slipped into wide leg jeans for an elongating effect.
5. Minimalist knee-high boot
Simple, sleek and always stylish. The minimalist knee-high boot – think no hardware, low profile, black or camel – is the perfect version of a white button-down shirt. It matches anything and everything, and looks great in any situation.
6. Platform combat boot
Military boots have been around forever, but the platform version is reinvigorating the classic style. The elevation adds to the height requirements of shorter people and the thick sole gives a cool, edgy, grunge vibe to casual styles.
7. Side zip heeled ankle boot
A stylish ankle boot with a block heel and side zip is one of the best boots for women to wear to work. It’s your heel boot with the height without the wobble, and is great for the office and for the dinner party.
8. Flat riding boot
Horse-riding never goes out of fashion. The flat, tall riding boot in plain leather is timeless, subtle and very versatile. Pair with skinny jeans or ponte trousers for an on-trend and relaxed look.
9. Mary Jane platform boot
A new shape in 2016, the Mary Jane boot is a girlish Mary Jane flat with the swagger of the platform boot. It’s cute, fun yet very versatile – pair it with a pleated mini skirt or midi dress.
10. Pointed-toe mule boot
A mule boot (one that’s open in the back) sounds weird, but looks very stylish. The pointed toe adds chic factor, the open back adds casual cool. A good choice for springtime when you want to wear a boot but not the full coverage.
11. Slouchy flat boot
Relaxed, comfortable, and slightly crooked – the slouchy boot is loosely fitted to the calf and ankle for a laid-back and cool look. In 2016, these boots will be in soft leathers and suedes in tones of brown and beige.
12. Shearling-lined snow boot
The shearling-lined boot is both stylish and practical. Today’s models have done away with the bulky look of their predecessors: 2016’s ankle boots are sleeker, slimmer, and complement classic winter fashion. Warm and stylish, with feet to match.
13. Metallic ankle boot
Want to add a touch of the unexpected? A silver, gold or copper ankle boot is the perfect outfit-maker. Pair with a simple look for an easy way to make a statement.
14. Sock boot
The sock boot (stretchy, leg hugging ankle boot) is back with a vengeance. It’s a great way to lengthen the leg with an above or ankle-length hem. Wear it with cropped pants or midi skirt.
15. Textured boot
Croc, snake skin, animal print – 2026 is about textures that provide visual texture but don’t overwhelm the look. A single textured boot is best worn with simple solid colours to give the emboss its chance to shine.
How to choose the right boots for your style
There are so many choices, it’s best to focus on your needs. Here are some questions to ask yourself:
- What’s the primary use? For work, weekends, social or all around?
- What’s your climate like? Go for waterproof or insulated boots in a wet or cold environment.
- What’s already in your wardrobe? Boots that match your wardrobe will be worn more often than boots you need to buy a separate set of clothes for.
- Heel or flat? Block heels are both comfortable and stylish. Flat boots are better for working on your feet.
- What’s your budget? An expensive, quality leather boot will last three times the amount of cheap ones – do the math.
Best boot styles by outfit type
- With jeans: Ankle boots, Chelsea boots, western boots
- With skirts or dresses: Knee-high, sock boot, combat boot
- For work: Mid heel ankle boot, flat riding boot, minimalist knee-high boot
- For everyday wear: Chelsea with lug sole, platform combat boot, flat slouchy boot
- For night outs: Over-the-knee boot, glitzy ankle boot, heeled sock boot
Tips for caring for your boots
Women’s boots are an investment – treat them as such:
- Apply a water and stain resistant spray prior to wearing.
- Keep boots in boot shapers or rolled up magazines to keep them shaped.
- Use a damp cloth and leather conditioner every couple of months.
- Use a suede brush for suede boots; never clean suede with water.
- If you wear boots every day, alternate pairs; resting your boots between uses will help them last.
Conclusion
In 2016 there is the perfect pair of women’s boots for every occasion, budget and style. Whether you choose the classic beauty of minimalist knee high, the fun factor of a platform combat boot, or style statement of a Mary Jane platform, you can’t really go wrong if you choose a style that works for you.
It’s all about wearing what you love. So choose a style you love, splurge if you can and be prepared to elevate your style from the bottom up.
Ready to shop? Narrow down your choices with this guide and try styles on in-person or be sure to check the sizing guide if you’re shopping online. There’s a pair for you out there – go get them.
Frequently asked questions
Which are the hottest women’s boots in 2016?
This year the hottest are the square-toe ankle boot, the cowboy boot, the Chelsea with lug-sole, the Mary Jane platform boot and the minimalist knee-high boot. These are all readily available in a range of prices.
Which boots are the most practical?
The Chelsea boot is especially when it has a lug sole, probably the most versatile boot for a woman. It goes with jeans, dresses, trousers and skirts, and is easy to put on and take off. I black or brown pair is suitable for all occasions.
Will knee-high boots be back in 2016?
Yes, absolutely. Knees-high boots are still very popular in 2016, especially in simple, sleek designs and in-season tints such as burgundy, camel and olive green.
Which boots are the best to wear with dresses?
Ankle and knee-high boots are both great choices with dresses. Knee-high boots look great with midi and mini dresses while ankle boots are ideal with maxi and midi dresses. Fuzzy boots also look nice with skirts and dresses.
How can I prolong the life of my boots?
Do a protective spray before wearing, store in boot shapers, condition the leather and rotate boots if worn frequently. With good care, you can double the lifespan of a good pair.
