Patent-leather boots, predominantly in black but also rich ... Recently, the fashion-forward Alexa Chung was spotted wearing a black ankle-length version with straight-leg jeans in the UK.

“Polished or patent leather is always a winner,” says Farrar ... Holland Cooper Mayfair Suede Ankle Boot in Merlot, £149 (were £299) The Independent is the world’s most free-thinking ...

You can also look for materials that are already water-resistant, like patent leather ... a Chelsea boot should also hit a little above the ankle, come with a pull tab in the back, and have ...