Goodbye Wellies - This Is The Summer Boots Trend You'll Actually Want To Wear

Graziadaily

5 days ago

We leave the house in the morning to sun shining in our eyes, hop off the train and it's raining (yes, we forgot our umbrella, as usual) and as we head to lunch we're sweating, while dodging puddles. Make it make sense. With all seasons in one day lately, navigating what to actually wear has become a full time job in itself. And while we're only a few weeks into official summer, there's no way we'll be letting a spot of rain – or a downpour – mess with our warm-weather outfits we've been looking forward to wearing since the start of the year. You know, the cotton boho blouses, polka dot dresses or culotte shorts we can't stop seeing all over our Insta feeds. The good news is, we don't have to retire our summer looks early – even with some rainy days on the cards – and it's all thanks to the fashion insiders confirming it's boots season already.
Practicing 'the wrong shoe theory' TikTok trend (basically, when you pair an unlikely shoe with your outfit – think heels with sporty shorts) boots with summer looks are the latest pairing being worn by so many stylish women, and it just so happens to be the answer to what to wear when it's hot, but rainy. With one boot style proving to be the most popular (read: practical) right now, we want to show you how flat knee-high boots are going to be the saviour to styling your summer wares, even when the weather isn't delivering the summer vibes.
Sofia Boman tries out the sheer blouse trend with an A-line cargo skirt, and we love the high/low look of this combo. While it could easily be styled with mesh ballet flats or a red flip flop, adding the Western style knee-high boot gives it a whole new unexpected feel. Plus, you won't be getting your legs wet if the heavens open.
Acne Studios, Burberry and Bottega Veneta all put '90s grunge plaid back on the runways for spring/summer 2025, and content creator Trishna Goklani has shown a wearable way to style it. No doubt you'll want to copy and paste this outfit formula, so simply add a white vest to a floaty checked skirt, belt at the waist and finish a pair of flat knee-high boots (psst, Trishna told us these are a very good vintage Prada find on Vinted). A 'just in case' jumper around your shoulders is also a wise idea in case temperatures drop throughout the day, too.
Polo tops, jumpers and dresses have been key for a while now, and we appreciate how fashion influencer Amaka Hamelijnck has given her grey polo dress an in-betweeny weather spin by adding a trench coat, summer sunnies and yes, you guessed it, a pair of flat knee high boots. Because while we'll always appreciate a heeled iteration, we'll be opting for the more functional flats so we're not slipping around during summer showers.
Those striped linen shorts you bought at the start of summer and have been saving for holiday, don't. Instead, make like Chloe Butler and weather-proof them by adding a pair of riding boots (a key style for the upcoming autumn/winter season) along with a lightweight knit that you could also tie round your waist. Add this year's standout accessory everyone is wearing – the bandana– and you get a cool country girl look we'll be relying on heavily from here on out.
Fashion insider and athlete Marilyn Nwawulor-Kazemaks is one to follow for everyday outfit inspo that'll make you want to up your game. Here, she's influenced us all into wanting to try out a pleated skirt (again, part of that '90s grunge revival we're seeing) and we'll be doing so by swapping our usual fitted T-shirt for a baggy style and completing the ensemble with chunky knee-high boots.
Ready to try adding knee-high flat boots to all your favourite summer outfits? While some sites – including Cos, Zara and Mango – still don't have new season styles online, yet, we've found the brands that are getting ahead with these fresh pairs coming in from the likes of Arket and Reformation. Along with a completely waterproof style by Moncler and the Ganni boots that we're sure will be viral within a matter of weeks. You. Are. Welcome. 1.
Arket, Leather Riding Boots
The thick tread rubber sole on this Arket pair is perfect for unpredictable weather days. Invest in a good leather protector and these glossy riding boots will see you through so many seasons. 2.
Reformation, Francesca Moto Boots
Buckled boots were big news last year, and they're sticking around for autumn/winter 2025/26. Reformation's Francesca iteration may have a slight heel, but the chunky sole and loose-fit around the leg will still keep them super comfy. 3.
Asos, Wide Fit Celeste Flat Western Knee High Boots
Price: $55
According to Asos, there's been a 178% rise in search for all things #cowboycore (including Western boots) this month. Whether you wear them to a festival or for a rainy day with a cotton dress and jacket, you'll end up styling them so many ways. 4.
Ganni, Studs Knee-High Boots
Fresh in from Ganni, we have no doubt these will be the boots every fashion insider will be wearing from now, through to next season. Add to a Broderie anglaise mini skirt and vest look for summer and with an oversized trench and denim shorts come autumn. 5.
Massimo Dutti, Leather Riding Boots
How chic are these? Love the glossy finish and the gold detailing – riding boots will elevate even the simplest of outfits this summer, and we're so here for it. We predict these will sell fast (like all key Massimo buys) so be quick to get them. 6.
Khaite, Sybil Glossed Leather Knee High Boots
Khaite boots will always be an investment, but when opting for a black pair of knee-high boots you can guarantee you'll get the wear out of them – way beyond the season, and even year you buy them in. Again, make sure to protect these with a good leather spray but this timeless pair will serve you well. 7.
& Other Stories, Biker Boots
If knee-high boots aren't for you, you'll want to embrace the new cropped pairs coming through. This brown leather style with silver hardware & Other Stories is also a very chic alternative to classic black. 8.
Moncler, Kickstream High Rain Boots
If you want to bring out the big guns and be fully prepared for all forecasts, a knee-high rain boot is the answer. This Moncler style made from a waterproof material also has a drawstring lining so no water will be getting down to your socks!
Image credit: @Sofiaboman, @trishnagoklani, @amaka.hamelijnck, @chloekathbutler and @nlmarilyn