Oct 30, 2011

Boots 101: Make This Season’s Staple Work for You at Any Height

There is one upside to shorter days and cooler temperatures – boots are everywhere! I don’t know about you, but there’s something about slipping into a pair that makes me feel instantly more in charge. However, with all of the options out there, it can be more than a little overwhelming to figure out which pair is right for your look. Well next time skip the confusion! Here’s the lowdown on how to look great in your boots whether they are short, tall or somewhere in between.

Booties and ankle boots are totally hot right now in everything from flats to sky high heels. The only problem is that even with all the variety, they can still be a little tricky to pull off. You run the risk of seriously shortening your legs. Don’t let yourself be intimidated! With great risk, comes great

Boots 101: Make This Seasons Staple Work for You at Any Height

Aldo, $80.00

reward…ankle boots can be a completely sexy way to showcase your legs.

In order to pull off short boots, you just have to get your proportions right. Small boots look awkward with a fuller silhouette on top. Steer clear of full skirts and billowy tops. Instead, keep the look sleek. Pair them with leggings, skinny jeans and tights.

Ankle boots can also look great with skirts or dresses. Just keep in mind one rule of thumb that’s sure to elongate the legs: the higher the rise of the boot, the shorter your skirt or dress should be (and vice versa.)

Move to the other side of the boot height spectrum and you have over the knee boots. If you want to make an undeniably bold statement, these are for you. Contrary to what you might believe, these boots are completely wearable. They’re flattering on just about everyone and look ultra chic. It’s just a matter of

Aldo, $100.00

finding the perfect pair. And of course, you have to be fearless. Attitude is the most important finishing touch when it comes to rocking these boots.

When you’re wearing over the knee boots, keep the rest of your outfit simple. Your boots will already attract enough attention! Also, if you’re wearing anything short, make sure you wear tights or leggings! The boots will be sexy enough.

If you’re looking for ‘just right,’ mid-calf boots are just what you’re looking for. They are absolutely classic. In fact, when you think boot this style is probably the first thing that comes to mind. And since they come in so many styles, they are perfect for any occasion or season. Think of these as the foolproof boot option.

With that said, there are still a couple of things to keep in mind. First, since there are so many options and styles out there, you’ll want to make sure you know which boots are appropriate for which occasions. For example, you probably wouldn’t wear the same boots to hang out at the bar with friends on Friday as you

Nine West, $179.00

would to that business luncheon on Monday. Slouchy boots, cowboy boots and boots with buckles or other

embellishments are generally more casual. If you’re going for a dressier look, you’ll want to go with a nice leather or suede pair with heels.

The other issue with mid-calf boots is that because of where they hit, calves can pose an issue for both slim and curvy girls. Girls who have curvier or more athletic legs should try slouchy, stretchy or zippered pairs. On the other hand, girls with more slender legs want to make sure that there’s not a gap between the boots and their calves. The boots should fit snugly, but still comfortably.

So next time you’re answering the ago old ‘what to wear’ question, consider yourself armed with knowledge. Boots are this season’s perfect shoe and with winter right around the corner, that’s not changing anytime soon. With attention to balance, style and proportions, you can pull off boots at any height with ease. -Grace Berchem, Contributing Writer

*Model pictures from Pintrest.com

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