Boot trends 2022: 8 styles to invest in this winter (2024)

As we crunch leaves under foot, the boot trends 2022 become a key part of our fall and winter wardrobes. Stylish and protective, bagging yourself a great pair of boots is a season essential.

The boot trends 2022, encompass a range of styles and deliver something for every taste this season. A popular footwear choice during the fall 2022 runway shows, the best winter boots promise to keep you warm without compromising on your look. An integral part of the fall winter shoe trends 2022, there is a boot style to go with every look. From stompy biker boots and platform soled designs, to leg-lengthening over-the-knee iterations, designers delivered boot trends that will see you through both smart and casual occasions.

While a classic pair of black or brown boots is a wardrobe essential, forming the basis of your winter shoe selection, for the boot trends 2022, we also saw plenty of color - reflecting the dopamine dressing trend that has been a constant this year. As we step closer to the holiday season, we can also expect stylish embellishment options and plenty of metallic styles for added glam.

8 boot trends 2022 to shop right now

If you're just starting your boot collection, then your first port of call should be a timeless riding boot and a practical ankle boot, as both of these iterations will work with everything from dresses to jeans. Once you have those capsule wardrobe must-haves covered, it's time to turn your attention to the boot trends 2022. Similarly to fashion trends, shoe shapes go in and out of style, and while some of the boot silhouettes and color options in this feature won't always be 'in', a solid pair of boots is always worth investing in, and can be pulled out year after year. For the season ahead, use a boot update to complement the fall 2022 fashion trends and bring your favorite fall outfit ideas bang up-to date.

1. Biker boots

One of the most popular shoe trends 2022, biker boots stomped down the runway at multiple fashion shows across the four major style cities. Championed by the likes of Coach and Miu Miu, the hardwearing silhouette marries practicality and aesthetics perfectly, for a shoe option that teams with everything from your best jeans to adding an androgynous finish to pretty midi dresses. To really up the ante on the biker look, pair your boots with your best leather jacket, for an ensemble that fully leans into the biker-chic style.

2. Over the knee boots

One of the more tricky styles to wear this season, the over the knee boot - particularly thigh grazing waders, reigned supreme on the runway. Styled primarily with dresses, this look is ideal for pairing with this season's mini skirt silhouette for extra leg coverage, or under skirts or dresses with leg baring slits.

If you're on the petite side, or this look feels a little overwhelming - as it is one that will certainly make a statement, opt for straight-to-market iterations that tempered the trend. Look out for over-the-knee styles that come up, just above the knee, rather than all the way to the thigh, for an interpretation that is more accessible. Pair with dresses and skirts, or rock over your best skinny jeans for additional warmth with a stylish twist.

3. Wedge boots

Wedges are often a silhouette we associate most with summer shoes, but for the fall/winter season, wedged boots made a quiet return to the runway. Wedge boots can be slightly weightier, making them ideal for smart casual outfit ideas, as opposed to party-ready attire. Seen at Stella McCartney and Loewe, this wasn't the most adopted of boot trends, but offering height with greater comfort than heels, it's one not to be ignored.

An ideal boot choice for what to wear with wide leg pants, look for an ankle skimming pair that will allow you to show off your footwear. Remember to keep the top half of your outfit fitted to balance your shape.

4. Platform boots

Not for the faint hearted, platform boots went super sized for the fall/winter of 2022. While the heels may look impossibly high, the deep front platform does mean that the height isn't quite as scary as it looks, although these are sure to add plenty of inches to your stature. Giving a nod to the '90s, thick soled boots were paired with everything from party-ready dresses to leather pants, adding edge to seasonal partywear.

We've seen thick-soled shoes around for several seasons now, suggesting that this look will be around for a while, so don't be afraid to invest. For maximum longevity however, opt for neutral black and tan designs that can be reinvented in the coming months.

5. Embellished Boots

One of the fanciest boot trends this season, embellished footwear added a touch of sparkle to proceedings. From stud and pearl detailing to all out jewel encrusted designs, this is the elevated style to look out for. Ideal for the festive season, embellished boots will often take you from work to drinks in one stylish step. A great choice for Christmas party outfits for work, a heavy soled pair get an instant glam update through subtle placement of stone detailing.

Spotted at the likes of Paul Costello, Jil Sander and 16Arlington, embellishment on the runway was largely rather subtle, although that doesn't mean you can't embrace more dancefloor-ready iterations. To make the look work for smarter occasions, opt for sleeker silhouettes and more pared-back styles.

6. Metallic Boots

Getting the party started, metallic boots lit up the runway for the boot trends 2022.With iterations covering all colors of the rainbow, from classic metallic hues of gold and silver to pink and purple statement styles, designers leaned fully into the festive season, with boots that will give your best decorations a run for their money.

For this particular trend the focus is on both color and fabrication, so you can buy into the look in a heel height and boot silhouette that suits your needs. Carrying a naturally party-ready finish, team these boots with your favorite jeans and a nice top combo, or use to up-style classic little black dresses to reinvent wardrobe staples.

7. Colorful Boots

Bright color clothes have been a staple over the last six months, offering cheer on even the dullest days and thankfully that hit of dopamine dressing is set to remain as we head towards 2023.

Mood-boosting hues decorated everything from the top coat trends 2022 to the sassiest of boots that strutted down the runway at the likes of Valentino, Elie Saab and Ermanno Scervino. Teamed with matching colorful outerwear, to ensure this look remains directional, keep outfits tonal for a burst of brightness that still feels polished.

8. Western Boots

The best cowboy boots go in and out of style, but as a cyclical trend, investing in the best pair you can afford is a shrewd investment. With Western-inspired boots making themselves known at the likes of Ulla Johnson, Etro and Jil Sander. The classic silhouette was re-interpreted in multiple ways, ensuring there is a Western-style boot to suit all tastes. From slouchy boots to croc inspired prints, tassels and classic cowboy silhouettes, this boot trend is wide-reaching, covering a lot of style ground.

Whether you opt for a knee length silhouette or an ankle-grazing style, learning how to wear cowboy boots is key to the look. Surprisingly versatile, Western boots work well with classic jean styles, as well as adding a directional feel to the best dresses.