Can you ever truly tire of a black boot? Ask any fashion editor, and you’ll get the same answer – a resounding no. Of course, everyone has their own preferences when it comes to flavour (sleek and streamlined or chunky and buckled, or somewhere in between), a pair of black boots is about as essential as any essential can get.
For autumn 2026, slouchy, soft leather and suede designs have gained momentum, thanks to brands like Isabel Marant, Staud and Balmain. Western-style boots – seen on the runway at Chloé, Gabriella Hearst and Khaite – which have been holding court for several seasons now, show no sign of slowing down in the year of the horse.
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On the subject of horses, polished equestrian-inspired boots with flat soles were a standout at Hermès, while skin-tight low-profile styles were seen at The Row and Toteme. At the opposite end of the spectrum, chunky, punk-leaning, buckled styles were a feature at Burberry and Dior.
But aside from trending silhouettes, like all wardrobe staples, the black boot isn’t something that ever truly goes out of style. Yes, certain shapes and details ebb and flow with the seasons, but a well-chosen pair should stand the test of time. More than that, different styles have the power to shift the mood of an outfit entirely – a chunky combat boot toughens up a floral dress or pleated skirt, while a sleek heeled knee-high is an instant shortcut to polish.
Below, browse ’s edit of the best black boots worth investing in for autumn 2026.
The pointed boot
Leather Stiletto Heel Chisel Toe Ankle Boots
The ankle boot
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Leather Western Block Heel Ankle Boots
The buckle boot
Leather Biker Buckle Block Heel Mid-Calf Boots
Leather Strap Buckle Biker Boots
The slouchy style
Suede Slouchy Cone Heel Pointed Ankle Boots
The flat boot
The classic Chelseas
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The Cowboy boot
Mid Shaft Embroidered Western Boots in Black
40mm Duerto Cowboy Boots
The lace-ups
