Chunky Footwear Trends That Are Taking Over

Combat boots are reclaiming their space in the style spotlight for 2025, and you’re right in time to master their comeback. Once linked to grunge and rebellion, these boots now hold a place in high fashion, streetwear, and even everyday wardrobes. Their appeal lies in their durability, genderless edge, and the ability to ground any outfit, both literally and stylistically. As trends lean toward function, contrast, and individuality, combat boots offer you a footwear option that’s as expressive as it is practical. Whether you’re dressing for drama, comfort, or both, this versatile piece can completely reshape your look.

Different Combat Boot Styles in 2025

Combat boots in 2025 come in bolder, more refined versions than ever before. No longer confined to plain black lace-ups, today’s variations cater to every aesthetic.

• Platform Soles: You gain extra height without sacrificing comfort. These versions lean into streetwear and pair well with cargo pants or wide-leg trousers.
• Vegan Leather: Sustainable materials give you the same look and feel with an eco-conscious twist. These are ideal for minimalist, ethical wardrobes.
• Color-Blocked Designs: Bright laces, contrasting panels, and statement hues push combat boots into high-fashion territory.
• High-Rise vs Ankle-Rise:
• High-rise boots extend above the ankle, giving you more drama and edge. Best for statement looks.
• Ankle-rise boots are easier to style casually and work better with cuffed jeans, skirts, or summer outfits.

Whether you gravitate toward chunky soles or sleek finishes, there's a pair that works seamlessly with your personal style.

Feminine Meets Edgy: Skirts & Dresses

One of the most striking ways to style combat boots is to pair them with feminine pieces. The contrast creates a dynamic outfit that’s equal parts soft and strong.

• Slip Dresses: A silky slip dress worn with rugged boots offers the ultimate high-low look. Add a leather jacket for extra attitude or a cardigan to soften the vibe.
• Floral Midi Skirts: This combo screams fashion confidence. Let the boots ground the look while the print keeps things light.
• Tulle or Pleated Skirts: For a more playful twist, mix sheer or flowing skirts with dark, matte boots. It creates movement and structure in one outfit.

Layering with oversized knits or cropped blazers adds additional texture and makes the look more seasonally adaptable. This balance between elegance and edge allows you to make your outfit look intentional, not costume-y.

Casual Cool with Denim

You don’t need to overhaul your entire wardrobe to style combat boots, start with your favorite denim.

• Tucked into Skinny Jeans: This classic combo remains relevant. The sleek fit of skinny jeans highlights the bulk and strength of your boots, creating an elongated silhouette.
• Cuffed Boyfriend Jeans: Roll up the hems and let your boots peek out. A slouchy tee or oversized sweater adds to the effortless appeal.
• Distressed Denim: Ripped or frayed jeans play well with polished or patent-leather boots, creating contrast in textures and finishes.

Try layering a longline coat or plaid flannel over the outfit for added structure. Combat boots thrive in casual spaces, bringing edge to even the most relaxed denim looks.

Elevated Street Style

If your personal style leans urban, avant-garde, or minimalist, combat boots can elevate your street style game effortlessly.

• Oversized Blazers: Pair a tailored blazer with bike shorts and high-rise combat boots. It’s a TikTok-approved silhouette that balances masculinity with trend-forward design.
• Cargo Pants: Lean into utility by wearing boots with tapered or drawstring cargos. Add a cropped tank or structured knit for proportion.
• Monochrome Layers: Head-to-toe black, beige, or gray keeps your outfit sharp. Let the boots add dimension through texture, like leather on wool or suede on denim.

Finish the look with angular sunglasses, minimalist accessories, or a beanie for colder days. This approach lets your boots serve as the foundation of a strong, style-forward outfit.

Fall & Winter Layering Looks

Cold-weather months are when combat boots shine most. Their build offers warmth, grip, and unbeatable layering potential.

• Trench Coats: A trench over leggings and a white shirt keeps things classic. Combat boots toughen the look just enough.
• Puffer Jackets: Go oversized and quilted on top with slimmer bottoms and high-rise boots. This silhouette balances volume and stability.
• Wool Socks Peeking Out: Let socks in bold colors or patterns peek above the boot line for a playful detail.

Use textures like fleece, flannel, or knits to add warmth. The juxtaposition of cozy layers with structured boots offers both form and function.

Combat Boots for Every Body Type

Combat boots suit every body, but certain shaft heights, cuts, and styling tricks can help you highlight your proportions better.

• Shorter Legs: Opt for ankle-rise boots. Pair them with cropped pants or high-waisted skirts to elongate your lower half.
• Long Legs: High-rise boots work beautifully here. Try midis or culottes to showcase the boot shaft.
• Curvier Frames: Use knee-length or midi skirts to balance width. Belt your tops or outerwear to define your waist.
• Petite Frames: Look for streamlined silhouettes and smaller sole profiles. Platform boots can still work, just avoid overwhelming details.

The key is using proportions intentionally, combat boots don’t need to be oversized or heavy to make an impact.

Bold, Timeless, and Yours to Own

Combat boots are more than a seasonal trend, they’re a defining element of personal style in 2025. With their unmatched versatility, these boots adapt to any outfit and make even the most polished look feel grounded and powerful. Whether you're layering them under feminine silhouettes, dressing them down with denim, or leaning into full streetwear energy, they fit seamlessly into your fashion narrative. Use them as your go-to anchor piece, sturdy, expressive, and unapologetically bold. This year, let your style lead from the ground up.

Explore how to style combat boots in 2025. From streetwear to slip dresses, learn to wear this bold essential across trends and seasons.