Katie Holmes proves why flat boots are the chicest way to update straight-leg jeans this autumn
With a flat sole, knitted texture and comfort technology, are these the perfect autumn boots?
The only purchase I’ve yet to make for my autumn capsule wardrobe is a pair of trusty boots. I want something that can work for everyday as well as for occasions, in a versatile hue that can also handle my predilection for walking long distances at a relatively fast pace. It’s a lot to ask, but then I spotted Katie Holmes in Vivaia’s Aida square-toe knee-high boots.
Walking the streets of New York, she looked perfectly cosy in flat, knee-high boots, which she’d tucked a pair of black, straight-leg jeans into. Despite the knitted construction, the leg shaft of the boot remained slim-fitting and delivered comfortable, elevated, autumn style.
Toteme’s T-lock medium leather tote bag and a grey, knitted jumper finished off the look, and the cool hues worked perfectly with the warm chocolate brown of her boots. The flat silhouette, plus the knitted construction, makes these boots a comfortable choice for the weeks and months ahead, and thanks to Vivaia's clever tech, they're water-repellent too, so you can genuinely get plenty of steps out in these beauties.
Style with jeans, tailored trousers or midi skirts; the water-repellent velvet and wool construction adds an autumnal feel to the knit upper of Katie's knee-high boots. The roomy square toe provides space for natural foot movement, while Vivaia's signature Comfort V-Pro WalkSole and flexible anti-slip outsole give extra comfort and stability.
Katie's Toteme bag is a timeless accessory. While Toteme isn't specifically a handbag brand, the designer label's leather goods are an excellent entry point to the brand, and this structured style, with gold-toned hardware, offers plenty of style and practical space and will elevate any outfit it is paired with.
If you're looking for affordable everyday staples that have an elevated feel, H&M's premium selection is the place to look. This 100% wool jumper features an oversized fit offset by ribbing at the cuffs and hem. The lighter grey hue tracks with the autumn/winter fashion colour trends for 2026, too.
Available in standard and wide fits, these Dune London boots are set on a low block heel, making them ideal for smart casual outfits. Their premium suede fabric helps with this too, while a stretch back gives the perfect fit. As well as this dark brown, they're also available in a range of neutral tones, including sand, tan, chocolate, black and grey.
Whether you want to wear them with knee-high boots, tucked or untucked, or with your go-to ballet flats, these straight-leg jeans from M&S are sure to be flattering thanks to their easy-going fit and mid-rise waist. Jeans and boots are a timeless combination and a great choice when it comes to building autumn outfit ideas.
Made from faux suede rather than the real thing, for an affordable price tag. A low block heel and riding boot shape give them a polished edge, while New Look have also added comfort tech such as a flexible sole and toe-to-heel cushioning, ensuring you'll want to slip these boots on every day.
The chocolate brown tone of Katie’s boots has become a staple neutral that’s dominating the latest trends. Chocolate brown boots offer a softer alternative to black while still offering the same versatility. Unlike harsh black, the tone feels more organic, warm and less stark against softer neutrals. And as Katie proves, chocolate brown boots can also seamlessly anchor all-black ensembles, or black and grey ones.
Katie really highlighted her boots by tucking her jeans into them, rather than opting to cover the knee-high silhouette. This added an intentional feel, so it looked purposefully styled, with proportions considered.
Of course, thanks to the versatility of both knee-high boots and denim jeans, wearing them untucked offers a totally different look and helps both denim and knee-high boots hold more weight in capsule wardrobes this season.
