What are the best Forever boots?

A reader wants a pair of boots that will stay in style.

I want to buy a pair of boots this year that will stay in style for at least five more years. I would like to wear them to a business meeting and go out at night with nice jeans or a casual dress. I believe in timeless and capsule wardrobes. What would you recommend? —Sharon, Seattle

Why settle for five years? I would go for 10. This is, after all, the time when the Coalition for Sustainable Clothing writes down the environmental impact of a piece of clothing at zero. And, like sneakers, flats and a pair of heels, boots - everyday ones, not rain or snow ones - are one of the staples of a shoe wardrobe. . Finding the right pair can solve a myriad of dressing problems, not to mention provide welcome ankle support. But where to start?

There are choices to be made when it comes to height, heel and material.

When it comes to height, it should come as no surprise to anyone that in today's environment, people are split on which type of boot is best: knee or ankle. (Thigh high boots have their own proponents, but I don't think any of them are claiming the style is basic; they're more like icing on the cake.)

You could say that ankle boots and ankle boots are complementary - I pretty much live in both styles from October to April - but if you have to choose one, the experts I interviewed agreed that it should to be a boot. The lower height makes it just a bit more versatile.

According to Angela Koh, Market Editor of T, "A simple black ankle boot, free from any excess patterning or trinkets", is the best option, ideally with a zipper on the side. As she pointed out, "brands like Hermès and Saint Laurent have this style in their 'carried over' collection, meaning it's in stores all year round, season after season," which is just as good. sign that it's a style that will last.

Paul Andrew, the shoe designer whose namesake collection currently has two different styles of ankle boots, and who has a signature in interesting heels that are also counterintuitively comfortable, okay. (If you want to splurge, check out the curve.)

Regardless of height, however, black calfskin "should be your material of choice", Mr. Andrew said.

Then, he continues, the choice really comes down to which identity you want to communicate. If it's strength, "a flat-soled Chelsea boot is the way to go, especially because the luxury sneaker trend is finally on the wane." For a more subtle, classic vibe, opt for a clean leather slipper with a pointed toe and small heel (the more square the heel, the easier it will be to walk on).

As for where to find boots, Ms. Koh suggests "brands that prioritize longevity over trends," and verified names Everlane, Mango and — for a vegan leather option — Nae. She also noted that it's worth haunting stores such as Nordstrom Rack for off-price options, as these styles are seasonless.

And then, for to ensure greater longevity, add taps to the soles, remember to use a protective spray on top and keep your boots polished. Great design can only take you so far. While you're going to spend time and money choosing a piece that lasts, you have to do your part too.

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