How to Wear:Boots

Posted by oneal on October 20th, 2015

For fall's nippy weather, there's no better accompaniment than boots. They're cozy, practical, and they can change an entire outfit from casual to chic. However, there are so many boot styles - ankle, over the knee, riding boots - that can trip up even the most established fashionista.

The first thing to note is there is no wear-everywhere boot style. (If you are trying to keep your shoe collection at a minimum, invest in a pair of ankle boots and riding or slouchy boots for variety.) Secondly, once you establish what styles go well with each boot, you will have an endless number of possibilities! Read below for a rundown on five footwear favorites.

Ankle Boots

These unassuming booties are a must have staple for a fall wardrobe. The short height works well exposed with pants and leggings, as well as with knee length skirts and dresses for a casual touch.

Business - Cuff a pair of dark wash skinny jeans and pair with a button-down top or blazer. These booties work great with a colored blazer (cranberry or coral) and a complimentary blouse.

Casual - Bootcut jeans can be too laid-back for office wear, but perfect for a weekend out. To keep the boots from looking too country, pair with a frilly blouse, skinny belt and simple jewelry.

Social - Wear with a bright dress to add a casual touch to an evening ensemble. Knee-length dresses work best, especially fit-and-flare or a flowy dress paired with a belted sash.

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Furry Snow Boots

Depending on where you live, these boots are either necessary right now or can be kept in the closet for a few more weeks, but are necessary for subfreezing temperatures. Lace-up boots with a furry cuff are the most attractive style.

Business - This style should not be worn to the office unless in an ice storm or blizzard; but if the occasion calls for it, pair with dark wash skinny jeans that can be tucked in and a chunky, but fitted, sweater.

Casual - Printed leggings, in particular a Fair Isle print, will compliment these boots perfectly. A bright oversized sweater and matching beanie, scarf and mitts will be ideal for snowy afternoon treks.

Social - Surprisingly, this style of boots works great with dresses! Choose a sweater dress with a knee-length or slightly below knee hemline and solid leggings in a dark neutral that won't distract from the overall outfit.

Riding Boots

This quintessential fall boot pairs well with almost every outfit and is available in all patterns. A slight heel will prevent these boots from looking boring and a dark brown or black leather is a classic.

Business - Like the ankle boots, this style can be paired with dark wash skinnies and a neutral blazer, or paired with a pencil skirt, feminine top and half-buttoned cardigan.

Casual - A bright sweater, scarf and beanie will pair perfectly with this laid-back style. If the sweater falls at or below your hips, solid leggings are ideal; otherwise pair with light wash skinny jeans.

Social - A full mini-skirt will take this casual boot style from serious to flirty, even when paired with a simple half-length sleeve tee. A skirt in maroon or pine green will add the basis for color, even if wearing a light colored top.

Slouchy boots

These boots are common in suede, but can found in leather for a dressy look. Heelless boots are good for causal wear, whereas a heel will elevate this style to a more professional level.

Business - An above-the-knee skirt in corduroy gives this flirtatious style a conservative appearance. Pair with a rolled-sleeve button down or ruffled blouse to avoid looking overly-strict.

Casual - Tuck a pair of skinny jeans in a light mint or dark auburn for an unexpected pop of color. A casual coat or chunky wrap cardigan over a striped or solid top will layer perfectly.

Social - Much like the snow boots, this style will look chic with a sweater dress and sheer or patterned tights. A velvet mini skirt or LBD will also pair well with slouchy heeled boots, especially if you're wary of thigh-high boots.

Thigh-high Boots

For a long time, this style was only worn by tall, slender models, but the thigh-high is a chic fashion statement for everyone. However, height is essential; if you are 5'5" or shorter, this boots will drown your legs.

Business - This is a tricky style for professional wear; any skin shown between the boots and your hemline will be too showy for the office. Instead, choose a pencil skirt with a hemline that falls below the top of the boots, and pair with a fitted sweater or button-down.

Casual - Pair with a pair of white or pastel jeans, especially if your boots are tan or a grey neutral. An oversized chunky sweater in a light cream or pale color will layer perfectly; and if you have a patterned sweater with a bold graphic or design, these boots are the perfect accompaniment!

Social - The height of these boots is a great way to play with different lengths. Wear with a ruffled or full mini skirt that exposes 3-5 inches of skin and a long coat or cardigan that falls slightly below the knees.

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