Lace-up: how to wear the hiking boots trend

When it comes to this year’s footwear trends, opposites really do attract. While on one proverbial foot you have knee-high boots in all their elegant, ladylike splendour, on the opposite end of the spectrum it’s the slightly geeky, hiker-inspired boot that has soared in desirability.

‘Hiking boots have been hugely popular this winter and will continue to be a wardrobe staple,’ reveals Ffion Lloyd, Partner & Assistant Buyer for Women’s Shoes. ‘They tick off the functional fashion trend that we’ve seen grow in importance – whereby practicality and durability are key – as well as being stylish.’

Of course you don’t actually have to be embarking on a ramble to lace yourself into a pair. Fashion editor and co-founder of The Wingwoman, Frankie Graddon is a firm fan and suggests the following: ‘The trick to wearing hiking boots is to juxtapose their chunkiness with feminine touches; try pairing a flowing maxi dress with tights and boots. Or rendering slip skirts winter-appropriate by adding boots and layering a chubby knit on top.’ 

You could also style them with tailored trousers or jeans for a truly practical way to combat the unpredictable British weather. ‘They tap into the climate for utility wear and the trend couldn’t have come at a better moment,’ confirms Frankie. With considered design details such as moulded footbeds and shearling linings, is there anything else your feet would rather be wrapped up in right now? 

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Images: Getty Images