White Ankle Boots Are Trending Again — These Are The 5 Styles We Love

There are certain items that always come back into everyone’s fall seasonal rotation: straight-leg black jeans, plush knit sweaters, ankle boots — the list goes on. When it comes to the latter category, the footwear options span the spectrum, from your classic black Chelsea styles to chunky combat stompers to, of course, white ankle boots. Although they’re slightly less practical than black or brown styles — scuffs and dirt show up more easily — they will add some extra pizzazz to your outfits and make the bottom half of your look stand out.

For example, a chic head-to-toe winter white outfit requires said booties. “[White ankle boots] brings light to any gray winter, and it [brings] light at your feet, which is flattering,” explains Nomasei co-founders, Paule Tenaillon and Marine Braquet to TZR. “A white shade goes with everything and it makes the outfit more sophisticated without much effort,” adds Rei Yoon Hong Mi, founder of Seoul-based footwear label Reike Nen.

Before you start shopping for a pair, it helps to categorize and zero in on a particular style. Do you want a chunky rubber sole or an architectural square heel? Do you prefer a side zipper or a slip-on-and-go Chelsea pick? “The white ankle boot has become a key piece in every woman’s closet. Every season, we see a new, refreshed update to the style — a change in the toe shape or the heel,” adds Jodi Kahn, Neiman Marcus’ vice president of luxury fashion. If you’re looking for a pair with unique details, opt for a cowboy boot-inspired style or one with platforms. (You’ll find both options available to shop, further down.)

Once you’ve found the perfect pair of white ankle boots, don’t be afraid to wear them out and about. If the shoes happen to attract a bit of grime from all your outdoor adventures, use Kahn’s tried-and-true cleaning hack: “A go-to trick that always works for me [to clean white boots] is to mix one teaspoon of dish soap with warm water and gently scrub with a soft toothbrush,” she says. “With white leather you can also use a leather conditioner to buff away any marks. If you’re traveling, carrying a Magic Eraser with you always does the trick — gently apply to any scruff marks.”

Alternatively, Tenaillon and Braquet suggest purchasing an off-white versus an optic white boot, where dirt can look more apparent. “[You can also] choose a shiny leather, a patent or semi patent [boot] where the stains are easier to remove,” they suggest. “And always clean your shoes immediately after wearing, and use a tissue and a natural cream like the one from Saphir, crème universelle. If the boots are beat up, then it’s best to bring them to a cobbler.”

Keeping all this in mind, scroll ahead to shop this season’s newest white ankle boots — and see how influencers are styling them too.

Two-Tone

Separately, black and white are two of the easiest colors to style into your outfits. And when paired together, they still work their magic. Look for a white ankle boot with a black platform and heel, so there’s duality in the style. The color scheme will draw attention to your feet without completely distracting people’s eyes from the rest of your outfit.

All-White

Opt for an all-white version like the one from Stuart Weitzman for a clean aesthetic. Then, rock your footwear with a slinky maxi dress to create a more elegant vibe, or throw on your favorite pair of flared pants and a neutral-colored tank for a casual weekend look. “My favorite way to style white ankle boots are with classic jeans and dark-colored outerwear for the colder season,” says Hong Mi. “Adding them to the toned-down outfit makes the look less boring and stylish.”

Platform

Platform boots are making a return for fall. Not only do they provide a (comfortable) height boost compared to heels, but they also look edgy and cool. You can keep it classic with a pair from Larroude or test drive an of-the-moment pair from Prada.

Chelsea Silhouette

Chelsea boots are having a major moment as evidenced by celebrities like Cardi B and Emma Roberts, who have both rocked the style. The timeless design gets an upgrade with a lower shaft design from Bottega Veneta, and is sleek and simple on an everyday option from Everlane.

Statement-Making

If you want your white ankle boots to be the boldest component of your outfit, go for styles with unexpected detailing like a stripe down the back or sculptural heels. Other unconventional designs to watch out for include embroidery and studs.