A fleeting cold snap is gripping New York City right now— well, the temperatures are in the 70s, rather than the high 80s/90s we’re used to. Regardless, it has us thinking about fall, and specifically, the fall trends we’re going to start investing in early. With September right around the corner, fall boots feel like the right place to start, and this season we’re trading in our chunky, lug soled boots in favor of something a little more minimal.
Resurrecting themselves from the 2010s, sock boots seem to officially be back. And while they have certainly evolved from the versions Demna introduced at both Balenciaga and Vetements all those years ago, the sentiment of the silhouette remains the same: sleek, subtle, and close to the skin. Call them second-skin, or simply tight-fitted boots, instead of sock boots, if you prefer—the sentiment remains the same.
After so many years of chunky lug soles and hiking boots, this shift emerges right in time for our fall wardrobe refresh.
Chloé Fall/Winter 2025
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Toteme Fall/Winter 2025
Toteme
At Toteme, Givenchy, and Chloé’s A/W’25 shows this year, tightly fitted boots were central to each collection, peeking out from mid-length skirt and coat hems. Glossy, mid-ankle height boots at Sarah Burton’s Givenchy tied into black leather gloves and oversized leather kerchiefs for toughness, while at Chloé, nude leather calf-hugging boots were paired with slick leather trench coats and fur stoles.
When it comes to styling, balance makes the most sense here. If you’re indulging in the tight-fitted boots trend for fall, opt for looser silhouettes on the rest of the body. Think: flowing bohemian skirts, mid length dresses, and oversized coats.
Below are my favorite tight-fitted boots to shop the trend.
Black Cotama Tall Boots
I love these mid-calf height boots with a rounded to and small kitten heel for an everyday boot that goes with everything.
Black Ankle Boots
Half sock and half structured leather, these are another perfect everyday option with a sleek pointed toe.
Black Thigh High Ballet Boots
A fun, alternative silhouette for those who aren't quite ready to retire their ballet flats yet.
Brown Pats Tall Boot
I love this loafer boot hybrid from Miista. The fit is snug but not overly sock-ish and still feels like an interesting and contemporary fall boot option, especially in brown croc.
Black Stretch Suede 55 Tall Boots
If you're not quite ready for fall, these are a sexy, breathable option for pre-freezing temps.
Black Nappa Knit Sock Ankle Boots
Another sock/boot hybrid that mimics the look of a mule but with added support. Margielas are notoriously comfortable, so you can trust these to be your new daily drivers.
Brown Ona Knee High Boots
A simple suede brown option for those who want to lean into the Fall energy.
Black and Beige Mesh Tall Boots
I love these The Row options for something a little different and vintage feeling.
Black Stretch Leaf Nappa Boots
I love that these look like a leather sock inside a strappy sandal, very Phoebe Philo Celine-era.
Black Leather Slinky Legging Low Boots
Daniel Roseberry is the king of good footwear. I love the anklet detail and sleek, slim fit.
