Men’s Autumn Boots: 6 Styles for Every Outfit

1. Chelsea boots: elastic gussets, zero laces

Chelsea boots appeared in Victorian England. Their invention is credited to Queen Victoria’s bootmaker, J. Sparkes-Hall. They quickly became popular thanks to their simple, laceless design. Elastic side gussets make them easy to slip on, and their simplicity makes them elegant. In a dark shade, they can be worn confidently at the office with a slim-fit suit. By day, a casual sport jacket and jeans make for a relaxed yet well-put-together outfit. In the evening, wool trousers and a leather jacket give a more sophisticated yet nonchalant look.

2. Chukka boots: suede, rubber and a Mediterranean air

Originating in North Africa, Chukka boots were designed for easy walking on hot desert sand. Today, however, they are a trusted ally in the cold season. They are usually made of suede in coffee or beige shades, with natural rubber soles. Their minimalist design, with two or three pairs of eyelets, gives them a casual, Mediterranean-inspired air. By day, they go with a casual shirt and pre-washed jeans for an urban look. For a weekend outing, corduroy trousers and a chunky knit jumper give a relaxed country air.

3. Jodhpur boots: the buckled strap at the ankle

Inspired by the uniforms of Indian horsemen, Jodhpur boots stand out for the buckled strap that wraps around the ankle. They are made of smooth leather, though suede versions also exist. Versatile as they are, they work well with chinos and a sport jacket. By day, for a casual meeting, they pair with tapered jeans and a shirt. At the weekend, corduroy trousers and a quilted gilet suit them well.

4. Ankle boots: side zips and urban sobriety

Ankle boots have recently returned to the urban landscape. They fasten with a side zip and are ideal for cold, snowless days. Their unadorned design makes them understated and suited above all to elegant outfits. For daytime occasions, they go with wool trousers and a fine merino polo neck. For the evening, jeans and a bomber jacket give them a contemporary look.

5. Lace-up boots: brogues for a rebellious look

Originally work boots, lace-up boots have gained ground in today’s urban fashion. They generally feature a decorative toe medallion and plenty of brogueing. They are ideal for a rebellious, masculine look, and pair perfectly with chinos, sailor-style roll-necks or safari jackets. By day, corduroy trousers and a wool jumper. On a weekend hike, chinos and a denim shirt give a rugged, dynamic look.

6. Balmoral boots: classic English elegance

Balmoral boots are perhaps the jewel of classic English style. They were invented by John Lobb, one of the most celebrated British craftsmen of the Victorian era. Their name comes from Balmoral Castle, hinting at ties to the aristocracy and high society. They became popular thanks to their dazzling elegance. Their construction is complex, combining leather panels in different shades, fastened with buttons on the side. Balmoral boots are ideal for more formal outfits, offering refinement and protection in autumn. For a day at the office, a three-piece suit. In the evening, smart trousers and a camel overcoat make for a striking appearance. Nor were these boots confined to England. A century ago, they could still be seen on the feet of Romania’s bourgeoisie. In the 1953 film adaptation of Caragiale’s comedy A Lost Letter, the character Ștefan Tipătescu proudly wears Balmoral boots.

Autumn, then, brings a varied range of men’s boots, casual and formal alike. Every type, from Chukka to Balmoral, balances comfort and elegance and adapts to day and evening occasions. Whatever the preference, the right boots complete a wardrobe with style and confidence.