The 90s were a defining decade for fashion, and while many trends have come and gone, the ankle boot has remained a timeless staple. This versatile shoe effortlessly adds a touch of cool to any outfit, whether it’s paired with jeans, skirts, or even a slip dress. Icons like Gwyneth Paltrow, Kate Moss, and Reese Witherspoon embraced the ankle boot, using it to elevate their effortlessly chic ensembles.
The resurgence of the ankle boot has been predicted in the fall/winter 2024 footwear trends, with classic silhouettes taking center stage. To master this style for the upcoming season, look back to the iconic looks that defined a generation for inspiration.
The 90s Black Ankle Boots Return for Fall 2024
The ’90s mantra of ‘less is more’ didn’t mean a complete absence of color. Reese Witherspoon, for example, often added a pop of red with a leather blazer or a statement bag. The key was to ground the look with black essentials like simple tops and shirts, allowing bolder pieces like striped pants to shine.
In 2024, the red blazer remains a loyal companion to the ankle boot. However, it’s being styled with a more monochromatic approach, as seen on the runways of Christian Siriano, Casablanca, and Hermès. This emphasizes the importance of maintaining a minimalist perspective when styling this shoe, just like in the past.
Lace Tops and Denim
The lace top was a hit in 1991, when supermodel Stephanie Seymour paired a lace-trimmed top with straight-leg jeans and, of course, ankle boots. Details like a black necklace, a bohemian bag, and a half-up ponytail became defining style markers of the era.
Coach, in their Fall/Winter 2024 collection, practically recreated Seymour’s look, incorporating the lace top into a more relaxed aesthetic, evident in the ripped jeans and distressed black ankle boots. This is no coincidence, as Creative Director Stuart Vevers has stated his design inspiration stems from his time in 90s New York.
Elegant and Versatile Looks
For an elegant yet versatile look, take inspiration from Gwyneth Paltrow, who favored a sleek black leather-effect trouser with a long-sleeved shirt and matching ankle boots. This is a look that effortlessly transitions from workday to evening.
Bottega Veneta showcased a similarly adaptable style, featuring wide-leg leather-effect trousers paired with a cream turtleneck and a splash of mustard yellow in a jacket. The look was completed with a minimalist bag and ankle boots.
The Power of the Little Black Dress
As Rachel Green in the iconic TV series ‘Friends,’ Jennifer Aniston became one of the most influential figures in 90s style. From her everyday looks to red carpet appearances, she never disappointed. One of her favorite staples was the little black dress. Sometimes she paired it with sandals, other times she opted for a midi dress with sheer tights, ankle boots, and a blazer. Aniston’s reliable combination remains a key to elegant styling. Emporio Armani showcased this classic look with a velvet dress featuring a flared skirt, tights, and, of course, matching ankle boots.
Kate Moss’s Off-Duty Style
Kate Moss is a champion of off-duty style. Effortless yet classic, simple yet effective – these words define her approach to dressing. She could rock a T-shirt, jeans, and ankle boots and still turn heads. This style hasn’t faded even today, as brands like Mossi see the classic T-shirt as a tool for messaging – literally. While the British model favors denim, the French-rooted brand leans towards pairing the shirt with skirts rather than pants to command attention, making the choice of non-distracting black ankle boots crucial. This proves that whether styled according to the 90s rules or with a modern twist, the ankle boot is set to be a fall star.
