Riding boots are autumn's top shoe trend and my go-to pair are perfect for wide calves

We know we’re still in the middle of summer, but we’re already starting to see some autumnal fashion trends creeping into our wardrobes. It could be the ever-changing unpredictable weather, it could be that we’re just over prepared, or it could be that some autumn trends are just impossible to resist.

There are always a few staples that your autumn wardrobe shouldn’t be without, and a great pair of boots is one of them. For A/W25, riding boots are set to be one of the top trends, and I’ve found the perfect pair to add to your collection.

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The Charlotte Knee High Boots from Duo Boots (£250) are a must-buy if you find it tricky to find boots that properly fit your calves. Whether they’re wide or narrow, one of Duo Boots’ biggest selling points is that they have a tailor-made fit that makes sure your boots fit you just right.

Picking the right size

First up, you select your shoe size, with choices ranging from a UK2 to a UK10. Next, you select your calf width. These range from 30cm right up to 53cm, going up in increments of 3cm so you can nail the fit perfectly.

The Charlotte Knee High Boots are designed to be snug fitting, so if you want to keep that look, opt for the closest measurement to your calf’s circumference. However if you want a little room – for example to wear with some leggings or jeans – make sure you give yourself a few extra centimetres of room to accommodate them.

I’d opted for a close fit to my legs, however in hindsight giving myself that extra wiggle room would have given me more outfit options to play with – just something to bear in mind! The boots are made from real leather, and come in two different colours; black and chocolate brown.

The black pair feature silver hardware and buckle details, whilst the brown pair have gold metal details. The inside zip is full length, which makes the Charlotte Knee High Boots super easy to get on and off, and there’s a stretch panel which gives them some added comfort when you’re walking.

How do they fit?

As with most leather shoes, the Charlotte Knee High Boots may take a couple of wears to relax and break in, but there was no rubbing or chafing during my first wear – they just felt a little stiff. However once they’re broken in and the leather has softened, they’re the kind of boots you could wear on a long commute, all day at the office, and out for dinner afterwards.

The leather also makes sure they’re waterproof and hard wearing, so these boots will last a lifetime in your wardrobe. Another reason they’ll be a returning feature every autumn and winter for me, is how versatile they are. You can just as easily wear them with leggings and oversize knit as you can with a midi dress and trench coat.

Their £250 price tag does make them a little bit of a splurge, however these are the true definition of an investment piece, and will serve you well through almost any occasion for years to come, so in my eyes are worth splashing out on. Of course, there are other riding boot styles around to shop, although none give you the same amount of flexibility when it comes to getting the perfect fit.

Dune’s Taylyn Riding Boots are currently on sale down from £149 to £74, and come in a choice of tan and black, with snaffle bit details to give them that equestrian look. Over at Fairfax & Favor, the Upton Black Leather Flat Knee-High Boots feature a stepped design that’s taller at the front than the back, and retail for £425.

For a more minimalist design, the Emelia M Leather Calf Boots are £190 from Jones Bootmaker, and come in slim, wide and regular fitting calf sizes. You could also pick up the Finery London Leather Flat Knee High Boots at Marks & Spencer for £120 for a timeless design.