HOW TO WEAR KNEE-HIGH BOOTS, ACCORDING TO A STYLIST

‘Can you wear knee-high boots with a dress?’ we hear you cry. It’s a valid question. After all, they involve a lot of fabric (as shoes go) and the sturdy structure doesn’t lend itself to floaty gowns. Be that as it may, the knee-high silhouette is a surprisingly suitable partner for your autumn dress rotation. Pair a shiny leather shoe with soft, seasonal fabrics like wool for a seriously 90s ensemble. 'Knee-high leather boots are the perfect blend of heritage and cleaner, more minimal 90s energy,' says Megan. We love colour drenching here, so consider reaching for plums and burgundy if you’re feeling particularly cosy.

GET THE LOOK: 

Bershka Leather effect jacket in burgundy, £45.99
New Look crinkle tie front mini dress in burgundy, £26
Topshop Anna medium angular clutch bag in aubergine, £28
ASOS DESIGN Cecile flat riding knee boots in burgundy, £52

We won’t teach you to suck eggs, but lo and behold – a sharp structured shoe goes perfectly with sharp structured tailoring. Alternative blazers and architectural looks are massive this season, so it’d be remiss not to throw in a knee-high boot when completing your office ‘fit. We love mixing up the expected codes of smart dressing with textural details – like a satin trouser instead of your usual cotton. A cone heel boot with a striking print is perfect here, and layering everything under a trench coat will keep you firmly in the transitional spirit.

GET THE LOOK: 

Topshop co ord occasion plisse tie waist blazer in black, £75
ASOS DESIGN cinched waist shirt in white, £34
Topshop satin tie waist wide leg trouser in black, £44
Similar: ASOS DESIGN Renata hair on real leather wedge smart ankle boots in zebra print, £75

Another unlikely hero of the knee-high boot roster is the mini skirt. Preppy wardrobes are another autumn favourite this year, so reach for pleated or plaid styles to complement your trusty boots. For Megan, 'mixing a statement boot with A-line skirts' is a nod to recent runways. 'From Gucci to Saint Laurent and Prada, this season is all about suede, chocolate and earth tones.' Balancing the top half with a sheer, romantic fabric is a great way to keep things interesting, whilst a cohesive trending colour palette will keep you from veering off course. We also love knee-high suede boots in this instance, especially with the fold over detail. It's a fun way to give your legs some airtime despite the cooler temperatures.

GET THE LOOK: 

ASOS DESIGN semi sheer knit shoulder top in buttermilk, £18
ASOS DESIGN pleated mini skirt in micro check, £30
Gina Tricot faux suede small tote bag with strap detail in brown, £40
SEQWL Ranger faux suede fold over knee boots in taupe, £45

Layering season means plenty of texture. You can jump on the knee-high boots trend whilst brushing shoulders with other AW26 favourites – like satin and fringe details. We love clashing high-shine mustard or brown knee-high boots with suede jackets or blazers, and you can break up the look with a softer piece like this satin slip dress. Finish things with a lace camisole or satin headscarf tied at the waist or over your hair for ultimate textural indulgence. It might sound like a lot of ingredients, but the very best looks call for lots of flavour.

GET THE LOOK: 

Stradivarius Oversize faux suede jacket in khaki, £59.99
ASOS DESIGN satin midi slip dress with fringe detail in black, £40
River Island Paisley print fringed trim scarf in brown, £19
ASOS DESIGN Cassia chisel toe fitted heeled knee boots in camel, £55