I Thought This Boot Trend Would Be Over By Now, But Turns Out I Was Wrong

Last year, chunky knee-high boots really took off as a trend. A shoe style that combines a tall silhouette with a thick lug sole and leather or rubber finish, the boots were practically impossible to escape on my Instagram feed. To me, they felt like a seasonal trend, but it turns out I was wrong because they're back for fall 2021 and seem to be more popular than ever.

As we dive into the beginning of fall, chunky knee-high boots are already a noteworthy shoe style that is defining how editors and fashion insiders are getting dressed. Whether paired with micro shorts and knits, a shorts set, or leggings, they're the versatile and practical boot style you'll actually want to walk around in. Ahead, see 15 ways to wear chunky knee-high boots, according to the fashion set. Oh, and shop all of the cool styles to add to your fall wardrobe.

chunky-knee-high-boots-295450-1632767481023-image

(Image credit: @tinakunakey)

chunky-knee-high-boots-295450-1632767788175-image

(Image credit: @handinfire)

Another great way to pull off micro hemlines, this time with a standout jacket.

chunky-knee-high-boots-295450-1632767479757-image

(Image credit: @pernilleteisbaek)

Go for an upsized sweater worn as a dress, and then add some chunky knee-high boots.

chunky-knee-high-boots-295450-1632767697139-image

(Image credit: @camillecharriere)

Another micro-hemline look. Clearly, these boots are made for this outfit pairing.

chunky-knee-high-boots-295450-1632767898370-image

(Image credit: @danixmichelle)

The ultimate statement boots.

chunky-knee-high-boots-295450-1632767932278-image

(Image credit: @clairerose)

Wear the boots with a simple black dress, swapping them in where you might normally opt for heels.

chunky-knee-high-boots-295450-1632768245537-image

(Image credit: @mvb)

Want a fresh way to wear leggings? This is it.

chunky-knee-high-boots-295450-1632778380548-main

(Image credit: @slipintostyle)

A tonal look is always a good idea.

chunky-knee-high-boots-295450-1632785851885-main

(Image credit: @ariviere)

More inspiration for how to wear minidresses, you're welcome.

chunky-knee-high-boots-295450-1632781200602-main

(Image credit: @emilisindlev)

Now here's how to extend the shelf life of your summer shorts sets.

chunky-knee-high-boots-295450-1632785963953-main

(Image credit: @oumaymaboumeshouli)

I'm a recent convert to jumpsuits and love the idea of styling them with chunky boots.

chunky-knee-high-boots-295450-1632786001562-main

(Image credit: @pernilleteisbaek)

Yes to all of this layering.

chunky-knee-high-boots-295450-1632786349496-main

I would normally wear a miniskirt set with heels or loafers but chunky boots takes it to the next level.

chunky-knee-high-boots-295450-1632786420560-main

(Image credit: @darjabarannik)

To repeat all fall and winter.

chunky-knee-high-boots-295450-1632786868466-main

(Image credit: @tesajurjasevic)

White, cream, and black hasn't failed me yet.

Next: The 12 Editor-Approved Trends I'm Wearing Until Further Notice

Associate Director, Special Projects

Kristen Nichols is the Associate Director, Special Projects at Who What Wear with over a decade of experience in fashion, editorial, and publishing. She oversees luxury content and wedding features, and covers fashion within the luxury market, runway reporting, shopping features, trends, and interviews with leading industry experts. She also contributes to podcast recordings, social media, and branded content initiatives. Kristen has worked with brands including Prada, Chanel, MyTheresa, and Luisa Via Roma, and rising designers such as Refine and Tove, and her style has been featured in publications including Vogue.com, Vogue France, WWD, and the CFDA. Before Who What Wear, Kristen began her career at Rodarte, where she worked on assistant styling, photo shoots, and runway shows, and at Allure, where she moved into print and digital editorial. She graduated from the University of Southern California, where she studied art history and business, and currently lives in New York.