Boots have always been one of the best investments you can make for your autumn winter wardrobe, but this year there are some new boot styles to get excited about, especially long boots. So I can confidently say buying some for the season ahead is a decision you won’t regret. Pick the right pair and you’ll be able to style them straight into your winter outfits, from workwear to evenings out.
Those classic knee high boot styles have had a subtle revamp, so let me give you a quick rundown on the major boot trends of the season…
The best boots to invest in
Catwalk trends are influencing the high street’s footwear offering, from over the knee boots at Bottega Veneta to lace up boots at Dior. The challenge for us is to work out which of the trends are future-proof and worth investing in, and how extreme you’re willing to go. Especially, when it comes to boots. I’m sure you’ll agree, you don’t just want to buy a pair of boots for one season only. They have to last for years.
If you’ve been browsing boots online, you’ll have probably spotted the twists to classic boot styles we see year after year, from subtle to statement iterations. So to start with, think about whether you’ll be wearing your boots in the day, the evening, or both. That way you can assess whether you’ll lean more towards classic styles or more of a statement.
Your knee high boots outfit by day
One of the most versatile boot styles this season comes up to just below your knee.
There are flat styles and heeled options, both of which will look great if you wear them with mini dresses or underneath a midi dress. Just make sure they fit snuggly to your calves so they won’t catch on the hem of your dress.
Classic riding boot styles are ideal for a polished day time knee high boots outfit. These will look good with straight jeans or skinnies tucked in, or will work with a shorter dress (and tights in winter) as they’ll have a looser fit on the leg.
Expect to see lots of buckles on knee high boots this season too, as brands give their knee high boot styles a biker edge.
Our favourite cowboy boots from summer are still here for the new season – taller styles really come into their own for winter.
Then, for a style that’s flattering, comfortable and current, invest in a boot with a platform heel. The best on the high street have a 60s-inspired feel and retro touches that will look good with any dress, whether it’s mini or maxi.
Your boots outfit for day to night
If you’re still feeling stuck and want some long boots that’ll work for day to night, then I would suggest an over the knee boot with a chunky heel that has a bit of slouch to the silhouette.
I bought a suede pair from Sezane a couple of seasons ago and they were the best boots investment I’ve ever made. They’re smart but subtle, thanks to the extra length over the knee, suede fabric and versatile colour, so I’ll wear them tucked into skinny jeans or with tights and a dress if I’m going from day to night.
Alternatively, for day to night, a sleek knee high boot with a kitten heel is a smart option for winter.
If you’re a heels pro, then your heel options are more varied. But if, like me, you’re not a seasoned pro (especially for wearing 12 hours plus) then a heel like this will look just as stylish as a heel that’s sky high.
Your knee high boots outfit by night
For taking your long boots up a level for the evening, took a peek at those more extreme long boot styles for a knee high boot outfit, from super leg-hugging fits to extra slouchy styles.
If you’re a fan of midi length dresses then heeled boots that are between ankle and knee height are the most flattering. Whereas if you love an a-line dress, shirt dress or mini, you’ve got space to take those boots up to the knee or over for a more dramatic knee high boot outfit. The best bit? You’ll look amazing and be more comfortable than if you were wearing spindly unsupportive heels (especially in a platform which sneakily minimises the heel height).
For extra sparkle, look out for sequin knee high boots or statement metallic boots. Wear with a statement party dress this festive season and you’ll like you’ve stepped straight off the catwalk.
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