If there is one type of shoe you can rely on from August to April (or possibly even longer), it's a pair of ankle boots. Much like a classic white T-shirt, ankle boots are a seasonless essential with endless styling options throughout the year. That said, it might take some digging to discover the perfect pair to add to your closet, if only because of all the ankle boot styles out there.

One way to wade through the sea of classic Chelsea boots and evening-appropriate stilettos is to narrow your search down to boots that will suit your personal aesthetic. 

To help you out, we've rounded up 12 different, modern ideas for how to style ankle boots, along with tips on how to recreate the looks.

Make the Most of a Maxi

Update your fave casual summer maxidress by adding a pair of flatform ankle boots. To stretch the wearability of this look out into chillier temps, add a long-sleeved layer underneath or a button-down and blazer on top.

Add Edge to a Floral Mini

If you're unwilling to completely give up on summer staples, try swapping out your typical white sneakers for ankle boots. Combat boots are an obvious choice, but pointy-toe booties also add contrast.

Tie in Texture

You can create cohesion in a look by matching textures the same way you match colors, prints, or patterns. A sheer, gauzy dress worn with equally ephemeral ankle boots is a standout 'fit. To get the same effect with less delicate footwear, hop on the clear footwear trend and add sheer or lacy socks.

Create a Sleek Silhouette

The most basic yet classic way to wear ankle boots? Under slightly cropped, wide-leg jeans. To really nail the look, choose a pair of boots that hit higher up on the ankle, which will create a seamless line.

Brighten Up a Color Palette

Who said ankle boots have to be basic or even neutral? A fun — and easy! — way to brighten up your outfit is with a metallic pair of booties. Try styling classic separates with shiny ankle boots to give your look that extra pop.

Create an Ombré Effect

Love cohesive colorful 'fits? A pair of striking white ankle boots can create a head-to-toe ombré outfit for fashionistas who want to go beyond basic colorblocking.

Show Off Statement Tights

Why hide a great pair of tights under knee-high boots? The next time you pull on patterned, lacy, or embellished tights, complete the 'fit with a pair of ankle boots to show off the most of your leggy accessories game.

Dress Down a Gown

Rugged ankle boots work wonders when worn with a formal, frilly, or otherwise feminine gown. Not only do they add levity, but they can create a casual vibe that works for everyday wear.

Elevate Athleisure Separates

Even the most casual of outfits get a high-fashion twist with ankle boots. Case in point: This ankle-boots-and-joggers ensemble. A typical tracksuit suddenly seems dressy with the help of a heel, and it's smart to go with booties that hit higher on your ankle so that tucking in your pants is a breeze.

Toughen Up a Preppy Mini

Autumn equals tights season, aka the ideal way to make miniskirts and dresses a teensy bit warmer. Fall is also a great time to lean into preppy and Schoolcore aesthetics. To keep your outfit from feeling too much like a school uniform, add a pair of chunky ankle boots.

Spice Up a Suit

While barely-there sandals are a summer suit essential, ankle boots become their much-needed replacement in the fall. When wearing a suit or trouser set, opt for ankle boots in a rich jewel tone or sumptuous texture like suede or velvet.

Keep Things Coordinated

When wearing a monochromatic or colorblocked look, don't dress from the ankle up. Instead, live a little by adding a bright pair of ankle boots. You can make this 'fit as loud or as subtle as you like by matching your footwear to your whole look or opting for a single element like a logo or print.