The 34 Best Summer Boots You'll Abandon Your Sandals For
Perfect for pairing with your floatiest dresses.


So you're looking for boots to wear this summer. We've got you covered, but let's set some basic ground rules. First, keep it light when it comes to color and fabric. Heavy leathers and chunky ankle boots can hang out until September with the rest of your black shoes. Second, consider suede in soft colors—you'll find they go with everything. Third, try to find some ventilation. Cut-outs, perforations, and open-toes will help dramatically to keep your feet feeling good. And last, have fun! Try on a moccasin if you haven't before; check out new takes on cowboy boots; experiment with fun fabric like denim. (Side note: It's a good idea to switch up your shoes often in the summer when feet are at their puffiest and most blistered.)
Like your go-to sandal or summer sneaker, a boot can be surprisingly versatile this time of year. Try pairing your new summer boot with a Bermuda-length short suit or a denim maxi skirt that you haven't quite figured out how to wear yet. Sure, some of these summer boots might not be appropriate for every occasion—you probably want to grab a different shoe if you're heading to the beach—but we can get behind giving any of the below options a try this season.
Everlane The Glove Boot ReKnit, Slate Grey
I love wearing sock-style boots in the summer because they are so dang easy to put on. You can literally slip into this pair from Everlane and get out the door in seconds.
Dr. Martens 1460 Pascal Tie Dye Boots
Doc Martens can be a little heavy, but this pink pair feels so fresh for spring and summer.
Steve Madden Lynden Pink Patent Boots
Stand out in these neon pink, Barbie-style patent leather boots from Steve Madden.
Hunter Wellies
Channel some retro Kate Moss energy by wearing a pair of colorful Hunter boots this season. Now all of your summer outfits can be weather-proof.
Vince Camuto Gallzy Chain-Detail Bootie
Finding a great pair of boots for under $100 can feel like a real challenge, but this cut-out pair from Vince Canuto fits the bill. I also love the Western-inspired chain!
Palladium Pallabrousse LGN Boots
A neutral pair of canvas boots like these from Palladium can be styled just like your favorite white high-top sneakers—and they're just as comfy.
Sam Edelman Nina
For a borrowed-from-the-boys summer shoe vibe, consider picking up a pair of flat Chelsea boots like these from Sam Edelman.
Allsaints Lira Hiker Boot
This pair of sleek boots from AllSaints will add some edge to all of your favorite sundresses this season. I would also try styling them under straight-leg jeans for a more casual look.
Frye Georgia Lace Up Bootie
These lace-up booties will instantly lend some cottagecore vibes to any and all of your summer looks. I would personally style these with a floral linen midi dress.
Matisse Caty Western Boots
Western-inspired boots are everywhere this season. This nude pair from Matisse is a great option if you want to give the trend a try without going all-in.
Isabel Marant Lapee Leather Toecap Ankle Boots
Speaking of western boots, I am obsessing over this pair of cap-toed booties by Isabel Marant right now. I would style them with a floral mini dress or with a pair of high-waisted jeans.
Schutz Maryana Tall Boots
These snakeskin boots from Schutz prove that knee-high styles can totally work in the summer! Pair them with a white dress for some added edge.
Linea Paolo Vida Bootie
These booties from Linea Paolo are the perfect combination between a sandal and a closed-toed boot. They also come in white, but you won't have to clean this black pair as often.
La Canadienne Angelica Grey Suede Boots
I really like wearing suede booties with all my outfits in the warmer months, but only if they come in lighter shades of gray or tan. These booties from La Canadienne come in a few different neutral shades and totally fit the bill.
Wandler Isa Booties
If you're not really into wearing a ton of color (even in the summer) these two-tone boots from Wandler will push you out of your sartorial comfort zone.
Vagabond Shoemakers Edwina Bootie
Vagabond Shoemakers design some of my favorite boots on the internet so yes, I will be buying this white and black pair in 2021. The contrasting sole makes them look so cool.
Cougar Women's Kensington Waterproof Chelsea Boots
Summer storms come and go in minutes, so be ready for anything with some cute waterproof boots. This pair from Cougar doesn't even look they're made for the rain.
R13 Single Stack Lace-up Boots
Floral combat boots are my new favorite thing, obviously! This pair from R13 feels sweet and tough at the same damn time.
Chinese Laundry Trixie Peep Toe Bootie
Are they boots? Are they sandals? This peep-toe pair from Chinese Laundry is the best of both worlds.
FP Collection Sunbelt Santa Fe Moto Boots
If I haven't talked enough about my love for tan chunky boots in the summer, let me tell you—I am obsessed. They go with everything!
BY FAR Este Leather Ankle Boots
Slip into this minimal, modern boot for summer. The low block heel makes them a great pick for a day running around town.
Isabel Marant Delf Suede Ankle Boots
Match up these chic booties with all your flowy floral dresses. The slanted heel and cuff give this soft suede style a fresh, modern feel.
RE/DONE 60s Camarguaise Boots
These pull-on suede boots have a relaxed feel and are great to throw on with casual attire. Consider styling them with a linen button-down and denim shorts or with a breezy white dress for a laidback look.
Schutz Mikki Booties
Sleek and sexy, this pointy-toe boot with a stiletto heel is a wardrobe must-have. The eggshell white hue makes this pair easy to style with outfits for day or night.
Cult Gaia Women's Daylee Pointed Toe Boots
The sculptural heel on this boot gives the classic pointy-toe silhouette an eye-catching twist. Style your pair with cropped jeans and shorter dresses to show off the stylish design detail.
Free People We The Free Wesley Ankle Boots
These western-inspired boots come in a slew of colors, but this bold red hue is particularly fun for the summer months. The square pointed-toe style will add a refreshing pop of color to make your outfits picture-perfect.
Reformation Ollie Sock Bootie
These versatile sock booties are the perfect companion for your white jeans and dresses. Plus, they're great for walking and dancing, thanks to the low heel.
Silent D Kitten-Heeled Slouch Boots
These powder blue boots will add a playful feel to all your warm-weather outfits. Match them up with a colorful floral dress, or let them be the pop of color in a neutral ensemble.
L'AGENCE Mila Bootie
These airy lace booties are ready for a night out. Swap them in for your stiletto strappy sandals when you want a different but equally sultry look.
Chelsea Paris Queen Boots
Scoop up this style and have fun playing with prints this summer. These striped boots will pair up with all your favorite summer slip dresses beautifully, too, from pastel colors and bright shades to neutral hues.
Dolce Vita Tall Western Boots
On the hunt for a tall western boot? Check out this style ASAP. They'll look just as stylish with dresses and skirts as they will with jeans tucked into the top.
Dear Frances Samba Boot
These sunny yellow boots will brighten up any outfit. They'll look especially good with other pastel hues and neutrals like tan and ivory.
Julia Gall is the Style Director at Marie Claire, covering all things fashion, as well as styling tips, wardrobe upkeep and sustainability. Check her out at @juliasgall.
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