How It Girls Wore Ankle Boots in the '80s, '90s, and '00s
There's no shortage of outfit inspiration from decades past, whether it's the bright colors, puffy sleeves, and graphic prints of the '80s that are currently trending again or the minimalistic all-black ensembles of the '90s that have become our forever mood at this point. Since we're always looking to the past, there's rarely a moment where we're not channeling the nostalgic outfits from one (or all) of these iconic moments in fashion history. Since ankle boot season is nearly upon us, we took a deep dive into photo archives from these decades, and we're happy to report that we found a trove of cool outfits with ankle boots.
After seeing the following outfits from It girls like Halle Berry, Naomi Campbell, and Gwyneth Paltrow, you'll realize that so many of the It trends they were wearing with their ankle boots are eerily similar to today's trends (think leopard-print, croc-effect, and square-toe shoes). If you're craving some throwback style inspiration, look no further. These cool outfits will have you instantly craving cooler weather so you can finally break out all the faux fur, leather, and chunky knits just begging to be styled with a classic pair of ankle boots.
Shop a similar style:
Shop a similar style:
Shop a similar style:
Shop a similar style:
Shop a similar style:
Shop a similar style:
Shop a similar style:
Shop a similar style:
Shop a similar style:
Shop more retro-inspired ankle boots:
Speaking of ankle boots, find out the best places to shop for the shoe staple and why.
Anna is an editor on the fashion team at Who What Wear and has been at the company for over five years, having begun her career in the Los Angeles office before relocating to New York, where she's currently based. Having always been passionate about pursuing a career in fashion, she built up her experience interning at the likes of Michael Kors, A.L.C., and College Fashionista before joining the team as a post-graduate assistant editor. Anna has penned a number of interviews with Who What Wear's cover stars over the years, including A-listers Megan Fox, Issa Rae, and Emma Chamberlain. She's earned a reputation for scouting new and emerging brands from across the globe and championing them to our audience of millions. While fashion is her main wheelhouse, Anna led the launch of WWW Travels last year, a new lifestyle vertical that highlights all things travel through a fashion-person lens. She is passionate about shopping vintage, whether it be at a favorite local outpost or an on-the-road discovery, and has amassed a wardrobe full of unique finds. When she's not writing, you can find her shooting street imagery on her film camera, attempting to learn a fourth or fifth language, or planning her next trip across the globe.
-
Olivia Rodrigo Just Found the Next It Shoes to Wear With Dresses
They're fresher than Western boots.
By Allyson Payer
-
J.Lo Wore the Classic Two-Item Outfit That Looks Elegant Every Single Time
The Birkin helps.
By Eliza Huber
-
The Nordstrom Spring Sale Has So Many Chic Shoes—I'm Losing It Over These Finds
Good luck picking just one.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
I'm Saving This '90s Supermodel's Airport Looks for All My Travel Days in 2024
Each one is comfortable and super chic.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
Gisele Bündchen Wore a Trench Coat With Nothing But Knee-High Boots During NYFW
No one does it like her.
By Eliza Huber
-
Give Your Closet Instant *Rich* Vibes With These 30 Pieces From the Nordstrom Sale
Bring on the compliments.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
I'm Revamping My Closet With These 5 Elevated Basics for a Chic Winter Wardrobe
You'll wear these for years to come.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes
-
Emma Stone Just Wore the 4-Piece Outfit Combo That Never Fails to Impress
It's an easy A.
By Drew Elovitz