Boots: From Classic To Trendy

Tuesday

Five Fabulous Styles You Need Right Now

Just like a great fitting LBD, every fashionista needs a good pair of quality boots! From wardrobe basics to elaborate ensembles, boots come in a variety of variations and can be styled for day or night. Don't worry, if you have trouble narrowing down what styles of boots you need in your closet, you’re not alone. With a plethora of options, it can be difficult to make these sole decisions but that's why I've put this guide of great boot selections. If you desire to be a strategic shopper and bring home boots that work well with many of your outfits, there are five essential and fabulous styles you need to buy. From ankle boots to tall boots, you’ll have a wide variety of options from which to choose. 

Ankle Boots: a Sartorial Essential

Ankle boots are easy to find in any heel height and are quite versatile in wear. Select them in diverse colours or if you're on the fence choose black or brown options which can be considered neutrals to go with any occasion. From corporate attire to creative CEO outfits, ankle boots will take your day garb to cocktail hour stylishly and with ease. Innovative and off-beat fashionistas pair them effortlessly with the classic little black dress. If your fashion sense runs towards the debonair and gender-defying, try a move from music maven Janelle Monáe’s playbook and work them with a jacket-and-tie ensemble. 

Calf and OTK (Over The Knee) Styles 

My preference is OTK boots, I tend to fancy flat riding boot styles first, but recently have been wearing loads of OTK boots and tall sleek leather styles. These are timeless silhouettes and have been worn by men historically even in the 18th Century. Flat-heeled riding types are great for weekend wear, but they’re also top performers at the office. For those who wear over-the-knee versions with skirts or dresses, assessing where your hemline falls is a good idea to judge which ones will work best with them. Ensure that the difference between your hemline and the top of your boot shaft is no more than five inches, and pair with a structured jacket or coat for a striking look. 

Chelsea Boots: The Classic Style For Every Season

With their typically low heel and ease of wear, these boots were made for walking. Once known as signature footwear among hip artists and rockers of the 1960s, Chelsea boots are now spotted on celebrity luminaries such as actress Emma Stone and TV personality and model, Alexa Chung. The originals were available in basic black leather, but now they can be found in a dizzying array of colours. Style tip: Slip these on with your casual ensembles when you’re strutting about. they also will make a statement for the gents. Try this style with crisp trousers and a blazer or leather jacket. 

Moto Boots: A Custom Embrace 

Just as biker jackets can look good on anyone, moto boots have made a comeback on the fashion scene. Today, personalities and tastemakers such as Gwen Stefani and former R.E.M. frontman Michael Stipe, wear moto boots. They are both comfortable and edgy, which can make any outfit stand out! From the lace-up chunky-heeled versions made famous by punk and avant-garde icons to the buckled varieties familiar in the motorcycling world, these tough boots can be worn with nearly any kind casual look. I tend to love wearing them with lace slip dresses, denim, and day frocks. But, there are plenty of other ways to style moto boots to suit your lifestyle and personal fashion style. For a contrast between rugged and feminine, try them with loose, flowing fabrics or floral prints.  

Elevated Heights: Stiletto Boots

Did you know that high heels were worn by fashionable men in the 1700s? Although these height-defying wonders were first donned by the ancient Egyptians, CBS News revealed that they were also sported by European noblemen and royal lads like King Louis XIV. Stiletto boots not only gift you with some extra height but also a longer-looking leg. Boots with shafts ending at or above the ankle add a little refinement to any dressy ensemble. Afraid of sore feet? Fashion expert Stacy London advises slipping in a pair of insoles for added comfort. 

Tell me, what is your favourite boot style to wear?

Disclosure: This is a collaborative post. All opinions expressed are my own.
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