Boots
May 21, 2023

This Is the Only Boot Trend I'm Eyeing, Buying, and Shopping for In 2023

by Eliza Huber

What can I say? I have a thing for shoes. Strappy sandals, ballet flats, wedges—name a style and I'll show you half a dozen pairs sitting in my closet. But perhaps for the first time in my life, I'm not juggling a handful of different footwear options this year. Instead, my sights are set on just one style that has taken up every inch of free space in my brain since 2023 began: stiletto boots.

To me, a tall heel, a pointed toe, and a fitted sock-like shaft make for the perfect shoe, not just for one season but all four. The '90s-inspired silhouette has taken over the fashion world, with brands like The Row, Diesel, and Manolo Blahnik offering hyper-elevated options while more affordable options like Porte & Paire, Reformation, and Schutz are selling chic alternatives that won't break the bank. Scroll down to shop for a pair of your own. This is one purchase you won't regret, trust me.

Photo:

@emnitta

Whenever I have no idea what to wear, I usually put on some variation of this look. Basically, it has to be all black and feature a great pair of stiletto boots and a leather jacket.

Shop:

Urban Outfitters Kamila Knee-High Boot

Urban Outfitters

Kamila Knee-High Boot

It's almost impossible to find boots this good under $100, let alone under $70.

Reformation Rosa Neoprene Knee Boots

Rosa Neoprene Knee Boots

I've had my eye on these for months and have tried them on in two separate cities. Now, I finally feel like I'm ready to go for it.

There's no outfit combination I love more than a tiny dress, sheer tights, and extra-pointy boots. It's so elevated and chic but also impossibly sexy.

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Zara Heeled Nylon Ankle Boots

Heeled Nylon Ankle Boots

I never would have said I wanted sock boots two years ago, but here I am now, buying as many pairs as I can find.

Stuart Weitzman Stuart Suede Knee Boots

Stuart Weitzman

Stuart Suede Knee Boots

If you want to splurge on a pair you know will last forever, go with one from Stuart Weitzman.

Photo:

@kristenmarienichols

Unsure how to style this type of boot? Google or search Pinterest for something like "'90s stiletto boots," and you'll find thousands of iconic images.

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Reformation Rena Buckled Leather Knee Boots

Rena Buckled Leather Knee Boots

The buckles only add to the allure.

Angel Alarcon Pointed-Toe Boots

Pointed-Toe Boots

I love that you can wear these under jeans without any of the bulk that comes with most mid-calf and knee-high boots.

Manolo Blahnik Oculara 90mm Suede Knee-High Boots

Oculara 90mm Suede Knee-High Boots

Hello, the Met? I'd like to submit a work of art. Thanks!

Photo:

@elizagracehuber

One way to make your boots the star of your outfit is to pair them with fishnet tights with a skirt with a slit. They only peak out a bit when you walk but instantly turn up the wow factor of any look.

Porte & Paire Leather Knee Boots

Leather Knee Boots

If you haven't shopped from Porte & Paire yet, here's your sign to do so. The brand makes high-quality, on-trend footwear at a price that stands out among Net-a-Porter's usual selection.

Vicenza First Friday Slouch Boots

First Friday Slouch Boots

The styling possibilities are truly endless.

Photo:

@tylynnnguyen

I'll take any chance I get to pair a miniskirt with knee-high stiletto boots. There's no chicer combination.

Nine West Richy Over-The-Knee Boot

Richy Over-The-Knee Boot

Sale prices like this don't come along every day.

Nerogiardini Buckle Pointed Toe Boot

Buckle Pointed Toe Boot

These give strong '90s Jen Aniston vibes, and I'm 100% here for it.

Photo:

@annabelrosendahl

I live by this sartorial mantra and this sartorial mantra only: The sharper the toe, the chicer the boots.

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Staud Cami Leather Tall Boots

Cami Leather Tall Boots

I'm genuinely shocked that these are in stock at Saks. They're sold out everywhere else.

Saint Laurent Justify Boots

I won't eat or sleep until these are mine.

Photo:

@dawn.tan

If black leather boots aren't doing it for you anymore, now's the perfect opportunity to branch out and try a different material or color. Dare I suggest a mock croc or a taupe suede?

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Dear Frances Ana Boot

When I want a high-quality pair of shoes, I always go to Dear Frances. The brand has never wronged me—ever.

Larroudé Kate Tall Suede Boots

Kate Tall Suede Boots

You've made it to the end—congratulations! Now collect your prize, aka these Larroudé boots.