After a summer spent in flip-flops and sandals, our feet are craving something more polished. This fall, the boot returns to the center of every wardrobe, and its spirit belongs firmly to the 1970s.

At Chloé, Chemena Kamali sent most of her models down the runway in boots borrowed from the decade. Paired with ruffled skirts and prairie blouses, each pair seemed to drift in from a hazy California afternoon, with a vinyl record spinning softly in the background.

Meanwhile, Sienna Miller, the reigning queen of modern boho, wore elegant knee-highs to the Barbour show during London Fashion Week in September.

So the message is clear. ’70s boots are the footwear trend of the season, and they come in many irresistible shapes.

The Women Who Made ’70s Boots Iconic

These silhouettes still carry the glow of an era. Jane Birkin wore knee-highs with tiny dresses, while Stevie Nicks twirled across the stage in suede platforms and floating chiffon. In London, Barbara Hulanicki’s legendary Biba boutique sold suede boots in moody shades of plum and rust to a generation of young dreamers. Their boots looked made for long nights and even longer road trips.

The Effortless Allure of Slouchy Leather

Soft and gently gathered at the ankle, slouchy boots have a relaxed, lived-in charm. On Balenciaga’s fall runway, they came in supple leather, more structured than their 2000s ancestors. Style yours with worn-in denim for an easy, unhurried weekend mood.

Classic Knee-High Boots

If you invest in one pair, make it a sleek knee-high. Back in the ’90s, Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy wore hers with slip skirts and long coats. Today, they look just as chic with wide-leg jeans or a mini, which instantly feels more Birkin. That versatility makes them your most loyal companion.

Lace-Up Styles With a Witchy Twist

For the darker side of boho, look to Maisie Williams. During the Practical Magic 2 press tour, she paired witchy lace-up boots with gothic separates. Add velvet and layered jewelry for a sharp, mystical edge fit for Stevie Nicks.

How to Wear Zebra and Snake Prints Underfoot

Isabel Marant showed zebra and snake prints for fall. Snake feels especially glamorous, like a night out at Studio 54. Keep the rest of your outfit simple, with neutral knits or dark denim, and let the print shine.

Over-the-Knee Drama, From Chanel to Chloé

For maximum drama, go over the knee. At Matthieu Blazy’s Chanel, supple suede climbed up the thigh, while Chloé folded the shafts down to reveal shearling. Let a midi skirt graze the top, and every stride will sound like the opening chords of a Fleetwood Mac ballad.