Chunky Boots Are Getting Outdated - Our Favorite Sleeker Options For 2024

If you know anything about the ebb and flow of shoe trends, you know that the height and heft of boots rises and recedes almost as often as the shoreline. As a general rule, chunky boots with platform heels and too-tall soles never stick around for long, and 2024 is no different. This year, it's all about the subtlety and sleekness of a minimal, small-heeled boot. From flat soles to pumps, 2024 brings a whole new world of possibilities, at least as far as boots go.

After years of popularity, you can count platform boots as officially outdated. Instead, celebrities and street-style fashionistas alike have been opting for the opposite of chunky boots, favoring more classic styles and more wearable alternatives without that signature bulk beneath the sole. Unconventionally (or simply conveniently), certain celebs have been styling their flat rainboots with their otherwise regular attire, among them Gwyneth Paltrow and daughter Apple Martin who were seen matching in forest-green Hunter boots in the summer of '23. Others, like Halle Berry, have been sticking to stiletto thigh-highs instead. If you're seeking the right pair of boots to walk you into 2024, we've got you covered with five sleeker boot options to elevate your wardrobe this year.

Like the swinging of a pendulum, all-or-nothing trends typically demand that the trend replacing them be their exact opposite. Platform boots are doing the same. That's why a short and sweet kitten-heel boot is exactly the cure for your newfound chunky-boot ick.

Shoes like the pointed-toe kitten-heel bootie have a timeless, irresistible retro look to them. Whether you find your dream pair from the thrift store or a chic boutique, these old-timey boots will look amazing with your light-wash denim, fitted tees, and cool-girl leather jackets. Sport vintage-inspired tortoiseshell sunnies to seal the deal.

If pointed-toe shoes are not particularly your cup of tea, then the square-toed bootie will sweep you off your feet. After all, squared-toe shoes never truly go out of style — they'll stick by your side (and around your wardrobe) through all your fashion stages of life.

Styling a platform-free square-toed boot is too easy. Go for a classic black pleather bootie and wear them with just about any pants by pairing your bag with your shoes. If those elements match, nothing else matters. You can even combine your cream-colored jeans with your preppy blue-jean jacket.

The moto boot has come to outdo any other bootie trend around. But can you really complain? The cutest boot award undeniably has to go to these mid-calf boots and their understated feel. Plus, the addition of a sleek buckle is all a shoe-lover can dream of.

A chic cross between biker boots and riding boots, the platform-free moto boot is the perfect minimal touch to elevate any outfit. Plus, it's the ideal piece for in-between seasons and transitional outfits. Wear them with your comfiest jean shorts and coziest jacket for an unexpected yet functional feel.

No need to throw all of your tall boots to the curb just yet. As long as they don't go all out with the chunky platform vibes, they may still serve you and your statement looks. Cowboy boots, for instance, are sticking around for longer than you thought.

As long as the front of the sole is minimal and close to the ground, your heel can have some height and even some volume (or bulk) to it. Wear your tall cowboy boots with mini-to-midi dresses and colorful touches for a fun and flirty Southern look.

While the open-toed boot might not be everyone's favorite piece of footwear, you should never knock something until you've tried it. After all, it's undeniably the statement shoe to trump all others, and will have heads turning everywhere you wear them.

Pair your open-toed booties with minimal styling and subdued colors. For instance, match your accessories to the color of your boots and keep your jewelry minimal with silver or gold accents. As for your outfit, stay within a neutral or black-and-white color palette, especially if your boots are in the same range of colors.