The Fashion Panel Picks Boots to Bet on

A staple steeped in nostalgic style, lace-up boots are a key winter essential that's just had a seasonal update. Smooth leather finishing, sparse lacing and even statement slogans are just some of the ways the style has seen a Fall/ Winter '18 refresh.

Runway approved: Gucci, Valentino and Hermès also gave a nod to the winter staple, in their showcases.

Kwena says... wear them with a suit! Contrasting a staple that is refined – like a suit – with a boot that has an edge, gives it an unpredictable toughness. The look is as ready for the office as it is the dance floor. It’s all about versatile footwear that you can wear with everything, everywhere.

A silhouette that's always had a place in every notable designer's heart when crafting collections for the colder months, thigh high boots are timeless winter statement. With this season's chicest iterations charting the spectrum from light blues to burgundies, black, browns and chestnuts are no longer the only way to channel sophistication.

Runway approved: spotted on Nina Ricci, Maria Escote and Balmain's Fall/ Winter '18 catwalks.

Gabrielle says... go "arctic hoe", but make it fashion. I’m a big fan of the thigh high boot when paired with playsuits, even with an oversized sweater, t-shirt or hoodie and jacket… give me volume and a dramatic contrast any day! Here I've paired the boot with trousers for a fresh take on the above aesthetic. The ultimate winter hoe-on-the-go aesthetic.

A failsafe style that complements every body shape, ankle boots had a trending moment  – in their own right – across various Fall/ Winter '18 collections. Even with executions ranging from spacious mid-calf varieties to the standard chelsea style we love, you'll still hit all your marks for elegance.

Runway approved: Coming through for the classics, Lanvin and Tibi recognised the power of the essential ankle boot in this season's collections.

Tarryn says... Offsetting pieces like an office-friendly blazer with athleisure inspired separates will elevate your look, while proving that classic black boots can integrate into any wardrobe seamlessly. Another option is to layer with a pop-of-colour-puffer for added cred.

With this being the season where more is more, don't be afraid to reach for a generous helping of fabric as well. Slouchy volume boots are a must-have that's filtered through to counterbalance the second skin fits. Because of its natural drape, this style is best worn in suede, but a polished leather looks also gives it a distinct retro feel.

Runway approved: slouchy boots were a standout trend in Saint Laurent, Bottega Veneta and Michael Kors's collections for this season.

Fadwah says... They are quite the quintessential feminine silhouette, a red scrunched-up stiletto boot is the perfect base for artfully mixing fabrics and layering with lady-like shapes.

Picking up pace as an easy alternative for the classic ankle boot, western boots are the ever-trendy lifeline you might not have known that your winter wardrobe needs. Trending in white leather, with harness straps, studs in lower to mid-height heels, the innumerable detail variations currently available means there's a pair for every taste. 

Runway approved: this season, Fendi, Emporio Armani and Dolce & Gabbanna's Fall/ Winter '18 collections made strong cases for the western boot.

Jenna says... White – it’s the shade du jour and when it comes to a white boot it’s totally a rule-breaking trend. Yes, they are loud and loved by the 60’s and 70’s and then there was that time we talked about a white shoe and cringed but the little white boot (LWB) is kind of cool, but the real appeal is that they’re strikingly unorthodox, yet distinctly stylish. Pair the ankle boot with a wide-legged cropped denim and an oversized striped shirt. I love the addition of the classic pearl and crystal drop earrings to an otherwise laidback look. Mixing casual pieces with dressier ones is where it’s at and throwing in a western boot adds character.