Chukkas

Plain and simple, a chukka is an ankle-length boot with two to three pairs of eyelets for lacing. But really, it's a secret weapon kind of shoe—a good chukka has the power to add a sharp contrast to whatever you're wearing. You want to add an air of casualness to your suit or wool trousers? You want your everyday jeans or beat-up chinos to look more dressed up? Pull on a pair of these. One of the most popular versions is the desert boot, introduced by the Clark Shoe Company in 1950 in suede with a crepe sole, but now chukkas come in a range of leather finishes and soles. Here are some of the best to consider buying now.

Shown left: $76.17 by ASOS