If there is one item in my closet that sees more action than my favorite pair of jeans, it’s my ankle boots. Whether I’m rushing to a brunch date, heading to the office, birkin bag dupe or trying to stay chic during a rainy autumn afternoon, a reliable pair of “booties” is always the answer.
Looking back at 2020—a year defined by a strange blend of comfort-seeking and a desperate desire to feel put-together—ankle boots became our saving grace. They acted as the perfect bridge between cozy home-wear and “real world” style. Today, birkin bag dupe I’m taking a trip down fashion memory lane to revisit the absolute best ankle boots that defined that unique year. If you’re looking to find classic inspiration or hunting for vintage gems, you’ve come to the right place.
Why Ankle Boots Owned 2020
In 2020, fashion shifted. We wanted versatility. We wanted shoes that could survive a long walk to the park but still look polished enough for a Zoom meeting (from the ankles up, birkin bag dupe at least).
As fashion icon Iris Apfel once said, “If your hair is done properly and you’re wearing good shoes, you can get away with anything.” I couldn’t agree more. Ankle boots were the “good shoes” of 2020, offering a structure that sneakers simply couldn’t provide.
The Breakdown: Top 2020 Trends
To help you visualize the landscape of that year, I’ve categorized the most coveted styles below.
Style Type Best For Vibe
The Chunky Chelsea Urban Commuting Edgy & Practical
The Square-Toe Boot Office/Professional Retro & Modern
The Lace-Up Combat Casual Weekends Grunge & Bold
The Minimalist Stiletto Evening/Events Sleek & Sophisticated
The Animal Print Boot Statement Pieces Bold & Wild
My Personal Top 5 Picks from 2020
Reflecting on my own shoe rack from that year, here are the pairs that truly stood the test of time.
- The Chunky Chelsea Boot
This was, without a doubt, the undisputed champion of 2020. With a thick, lug sole, these boots were essentially the fashion industry’s answer to “practicality meets punk.” I loved wearing these with midi skirts to balance out the bulk.
- The Cream-Colored Boot
White and cream boots had a massive “moment” in 2020. While I was initially skeptical about keeping them clean, they brightened up every neutral outfit I owned. They add a sophisticated, editorial touch that black leather sometimes lacks.
- The Lace-Up Combat Boot
It’s not just for the 90s kids! Combat boots in 2020 were elevated with softer leathers and slimmer silhouettes. They provided that “tough girl” aesthetic that felt empowering during a year that felt largely out of our control.
- The Square-Toe Boot
Moving away from the pointed toe, the square-toe aesthetic brought a 90s-inspired minimalism back to the forefront. It’s a clean, geometric look that works perfectly with straight-leg denim.
- The Snakeskin Statement
For those days when a plain boot wouldn’t cut it, the snakeskin ankle boot was my go-to. It’s the ultimate “outfit-maker.” You can wear a plain white tee and jeans, add these boots, and suddenly, you look like a fashion editor.
Tips for Styling Your Ankle Boots
I’ve learned a few tricks over the years to make sure my boots always look intentional rather than an afterthought. Here’s how I style them:
The Hemline Rule: If you’re wearing skinny jeans, tuck them in completely. If you’re wearing straight-leg or wide-leg pants, hermes replica bags leave a tiny sliver of skin between the hem and the boot for that effortless, “cool-girl” gap.
Monochromatic Magic: hermes replica I love wearing black boots with black tights and a black skirt. It creates a continuous line, which—let’s be honest—does wonders for making your legs look miles long.
Contrast is Key: If your boots are chunky, opt for a flowy dress to balance the proportions. If your boots are dainty and sleek, go for fake birkin oversized sweaters or structured trousers.
“Fashion is what you’re offered four times a year by designers. And style is what you choose.” — Lauren Hutton
This quote resonates so deeply with me. Even though 2020 had specific “trends,” the best part about your personal style is how you interpret those trends to fit your life.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Are ankle boots still in style after 2020? Absolutely! Ankle boots are a perennial staple. While the specific silhouettes (like the extreme chunky sole) might ebb and flow in popularity, a classic ankle boot is as timeless as a little black dress.
Q: How do I clean my leather ankle boots? For daily maintenance, I use a damp cloth to wipe off dust. Every few months, I invest in a good leather conditioner to keep the material supple and prevent cracking. For scuffs, a matching cream polish works wonders.
Q: Can you wear ankle boots with formal wear? It depends on the boot! A sleek, patent leather, or suede ankle boot with a slim heel can absolutely work with evening wear, especially if you’re looking for comfort over a traditional stiletto pump.
Q: What is the most versatile color for hermes replica an ankle boot? If you’re only buying one pair, go for black or a deep tan/cognac. Black is practically indestructible against the elements, while tan adds a softer, more casual vibe that looks incredible with denim.
Final Thoughts
Looking back at the style landscape of 2020, I’m reminded that what we wear really does impact how we feel. Those chunky Chelsea boots gave me the confidence to walk through a city that felt quiet and strange; the cream-colored boots reminded me to keep things light and hopeful.
Whether you’re hunting through thrift stores for a pair of 2020-era gems or looking at current brand lookbooks, remember that the “best” boot is the one that makes you feel ready to take on the day.
What was your favorite shoe trend from that year? Do you still have a pair of boots sitting in your closet that you simply refuse to get rid of? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear how your shoe collection has evolved!