15 Pairs of Ankle Boots That Will Fix Your “I Don’t Have Any Shoes to Match” Problem

Can we get a little commotion for boots? Yes, we’re mid-heat wave at the moment. Fuzzy UGGs and steel-toed stompers aren’t exactly the footwear du jour, but take a step back and think about it. Come September, you’re going to be living exclusively in your combats and platform booties. Ankle boots are simply the best. They look good with tights and leggings; they look good with trousers; they look good with skirts and dresses. I could wax poetic about this wardrobe staple, but I’ll let someone else tell you what’s good.

“From timeless design to edgy, chunky silhouettes—the ankle boot is the ultimate style for everyday use,” says Marie Nilsson Peterzén, creative director, VP, and co-founder of Vagabond Shoemakers. She speaks the truth. Ankle boots really are a do-it-all shoe, one that your closet is simply incomplete without. (P.S. While I have you, I swear by Vagabond’s classic white sneaker.)

Speaking of our tried-and-true shoe labels, Steve Madden is among the crème de la crème. Decade after decade, season after season, Steve Madden never fails to dream up new shoes—of all styles and designs—that are quite literally drool-worthy. So, when the team at SM says ankle boots are a necessity, I believe ankle boots are a necessity. “At Steve Madden, we believe silhouette is key when looking for a good ankle boot,” says the brand’s creative retail director, Christina Ciglar. “Keep an eye out for a form-fitting ankle, stylish toe, and a fun heel to find a perfect boot to wear all season!”

Here, from comfortable selects to mega-platforms, find 15 pairs of ankle boots that we (meaning our editors, experts, and fellow shoppers) rate 10 out of 10.