Sandal Averse? These Summer Boots Are the Ideal Unexpected Alternative

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Photographed by Dan Roberts / Acielle / Style du Monde

Sandals aren’t the only shoes you can—or should!—wear this summer. Don’t get us wrong: Open toes are great for weekend beach days, casual strolls, and vacations, but they aren’t the most practical choice when it comes to a rainy day, a below-freezing office, or exploring the city. And while we’ve endorsed the Emily Ratajkowski–approved dress-and-sneakers pairing, if you hate exposing your feet or just want to switch up your look, here’s another unexpected alternative to consider: the summer boot.

There’s no better way to balance out a flirty floral frock then with a rocker combat boot. These rugged lace-up styles give sweet summer dresses just the right amount of edge and are the perfect companion for your feet during summers in the city. Still not convinced? Try a pair that slip right on and off, just as your favorite sandals do, like low-cut ankle booties or wide-top cowboy boots. Plus summer’s nice weather brings new opportunities to take brocade and jacquard, silk and satin, or suede and canvas booties out for a spin without having to worry about ruining their delicate exterior. Stay grounded all summer in these 15 iterations, and you’ll be set for stomping around from now until fall.

Shop our summer boots picks below.

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Photographed by Acielle / Style du Monde
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Tabitha Simmons For Brock Collection Jacquard Ankle Boots

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Tamara Mellon Phoenix Snakeskin Heel

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Dries Van Noten Jacquard Ankle Boots

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Photographed by Acielle / Style du Monde
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Frye Women’s Veronica Combat Ankle Boots

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Rag Bone Cannon II Leather Buckle Booties

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Dr. Martens Leona 7-Hook Boots

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Ganni Texas 40 Cowboy Boots

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Jeffrey Campbell Looney Western Boots

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Dorateymur Dans La Maison Boots

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Photographed by Dan Roberts
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Proenza Schouler PSWL Chunky Ankle Boots

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R13 Platform Lace-Up Boots

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Everlane Rain Boots

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Photographed by Dan Roberts
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Vince Women’s Camrose Leather Ankle Boots

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By Far Este Silk Boots In Blue

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Two24 Women’s Benissa Chelsea Boots