If you know me, you know that I firmly believe the humble ankle boot is the backbone of any respectable wardrobe. Whether it’s a crisp autumn afternoon or a slushy winter morning, a great pair of boots can pull an entire outfit together. Looking back at 2020—a year that defied all expectations—our footwear choices had to be as versatile as our schedules. From WFH comfort to those socially distanced rooftop dinners, the ankle boot truly had its moment.
Today, I’m taking a nostalgic look back at the standout styles from that year. Even if we’ve moved past 2020, the silhouettes that defined that season remain timeless classics that deserve a spot in your rotation.
Why the Ankle Boot Remains King (or Queen)
Fashion writer and style icon Tavi Gevinson once said:
“Style is about wearing your truth. If that truth involves a chunky lug-sole boot that makes you feel unstoppable, then that is your uniform.”
I couldn’t agree more. In 2020, we saw a massive shift toward functional footwear. We ditched the precarious stilettos for fake birkin boots that offered support, durability, and a heavy dose of “cool.” It was the year of the Chelsea, the year of the combat boot, replica bags and the year we learned that fashion doesn’t have to hurt to be effective.
My 2020 “Hall of Fame” Breakdown
When curating my personal favorites from that year, I looked for quality, versatility, and that unmistakable “it” factor. Here are the styles that kept me going through a very strange, hermes replica very stylish year.
Boot Style Best For Vibe
The Chunky Chelsea Daily errands Edgy & Effortless
The Square-Toe Boot Date nights/Office Retro-Chic
The Lace-Up Combat Weather resistance Rugged & Tough
The Minimalist Stiletto Evening events Sleek & Polished
The Western-Inspired Denim styling Bohemian
- The Chunky Chelsea
This was, without a doubt, the undisputed champion of 2020. With the lug sole trend reaching its peak, these boots looked just as good with leggings as they did with a floaty floral midi dress. They were the ultimate “throw-on-and-go” solution.
- The Square-Toe Silhouette
I fell in love with the 90s revival in 2020. The square-toe ankle boot offered a structural edge that made even the simplest jeans-and-tee combo look like it had been styled by a professional.
- The Classic Lace-Up
Nothing says “I have places to be” like a sturdy pair of leather lace-ups. They became my go-to for long walks when I needed to get out of the house. They offered ankle support and an undeniable street-style aesthetic.
How to Style Them: My Personal Rules
If you’re pulling these classics out of your closet today, here is how I like to style them to keep things fresh:
Go Monochromatic: Match your boots to your trousers to elongate your legs. It’s a trick I use constantly to look taller and more put-together.
The “Half-Tuck”: If you’re wearing relaxed-fit jeans, hermes replica tuck the very front into your ankle boot to show off the silhouette while keeping the back loose.
Contrast is Key: Pair heavy, rugged combat boots with something soft, like a silk slip skirt. The juxtaposition is always a recipe for a winning outfit.
As I like to tell my friends:
“Don’t be afraid to mix your textures. A leather boot against a chunky wool sock or a delicate satin skirt is where the magic happens.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Are ankle boots still in style for this year? Absolutely! The ankle boot is a permanent fixture in the fashion world. While trends shift—like heel shape or fake birkin toe box design—the versatility of an ankle boot ensures it never truly goes out of style.
Q: What is the best way to clean leather ankle boots? I always keep a damp cloth and hermes replica bags a leather conditioner handy. For 2020’s chunky boots, I found that using a soft-bristled brush to remove dried mud from the lug soles was a game-changer!
Q: Can I wear ankle boots with dresses? Yes, yes, and yes. In fact, Hermes Replica Bags that was one of my favorite looks of 2020. Pairing a feminine frock with a heavy-duty boot is the perfect way to add a bit of “edge” to your daily style.
Q: How do I break in new leather boots without blisters? My secret? Wear them around the house with thick wool socks for an hour or two at a time before taking them out for a full day of errands. It softens the leather and stretches it just enough to match your foot shape.
Final Thoughts
Reflecting on 2020, I realize that my love for boots wasn’t just about aesthetics; it was about grounding. During a year where everything felt uncertain, having a reliable, durable pair of boots on my feet made me feel a little more ready to face the world.
Whether you’re hunting for a pair of vintage square-toes or fake birkin investing in a brand-new pair of lug soles, remember: the best boot is the one that makes you feel the most you. Don’t get too caught up in the “rules” of fashion. If it feels good, if it supports you, and if it makes you want to walk a little taller, then it’s the right pair.
What was your go-to footwear style in 2020? Are you still wearing them, or have you moved on to something else? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear how your style has evolved since then!
Until next time, keep your head high and your heels grounded.