It is officially boots weather and there are this year are so many different styles on offer it can be a mind field trying to find the perfect ones for you. In this blog I will give to my advice for boot shopping and also the key styles to start with. Of course there are more but I am going to focus in on the styles that I believe have longevity in your wardobes and that will serve you well. If looked after boots can be worn year after year and making an investment in a really good pair in is a very good purchase.
I am featuring black boots only in this edit, there are the more fashion throw away styles and colours that you might see in the shops and fall in love with. And anything that brings you joy when wearing, is also a great invesment, just make sure they fit in with your wardobe and lifestyle so that they are not looking pretty still in the box in a months time not being worn.
The big trend again this winter is for big chunky style boots and where they look fantastic on other people I see wearing them, being petite and a shoe size 4, I struggle wearing anything too bulky. I have in my blog tried to find some less chunky styles that are a nod to the trend without going all the way, for those of you if like me you like the look on others, but just find it doesnt suit you.
That’s the key with trends, some come and go and others stay around a little longer, but it is always important to stick to what suits you and your body shape and you will always look your best.
I recommend to my clients to have at least a few pairs of boots, depending on your style and lifestyle, I would say as a starting point the below 3.
- A flat/ low heeled pair for all day wear, smart
- A flat more casual style , chunky/ hiker boots
- A heeled pair for going out / more dressed up looks ( these could be longer styles if that suited your style)
My stylist top tips
- If you can, go for a good quality leather as they will last you years to come, buying a cheap pair will get you through this winter but it’s not a sustainbable way to shop as they will often need replacing.
- Always think about your own lifestyle and where you will be wearing the boots, make sure they fit your lifestyle and purpose.
- Buying boots in black is as safe as you can go as you know they will go with everything, adding other colours to your collection once you have the basics covered.
- Consider heel height and this will go back to wear and when you are going to wear the boots most as comfort is also key, boots that hurt you won’t get worn no matter how much you love the way they look.
- When wearing straight leg jeans with ankle boots it’s good to have a gap between your boots and your jeans.
- When buying suede boots consider how much they will get wet etc and always treat them to try and preserve the look. They are great styles to add a lux look to your outfits but not practical for lots of walking around in the rain for example.
- Service your boots, I have my most worn pairs re heeled every year to make them like new & don’t forget to treat your boots with leather protector so that they look good for longer.
Petite styling
I wanted to add in a separate point here for those who like me are petite ( short) and want to wear boots the most flattering way for their height.
- Choosing a boot with a pointed toe will elongate the leg
- Petites are better with shorter ankle boots rather than ones that come higher up your legs
- Wearing black boots with black tights or bottoms will make your legs look longer.
- Wearing the bigger chunkier styles is less faltering than the softer more feminine styles like the Chelsea boots.
This blog does contain some Affiliate links
Click on the images to shop, outfit inspo images via Pinterest
Chelsea Boots
Starting with my personal favourite style. A flat or low heeled pair can take you easily from day to night ,from work to bar, they are a classic smart/casual all rounder that will go with everything.
Hiker boots
This style of boots really came into fashion a few years ago with the brand Grenson’s gaining huge popilarity.
If like many of us you can’t stretch to the designer ones, there are plenty of good quality high street versions for you to choose from. I have included my favourite dupes from Marks and Spencer, I bought these last year and wore them daily! They were such a good buy, kept my feet warm, dry and stylish for the whole of lockdown and the million muddy walks we went on. I will be definitely getting them out this winter.
I also find that if you want a more modern look but not into the really big chunky ones this style is a good option. Very practical, comfortable and stylish. Wear with leggings, jeans and dresses.
Biker Boots
This classic style is characterised by the buckles, usually ankle boots and they add interest to your outfits and go with everything. You can get really embellished studded ones with the beautiful Chloe boots in mind, it’s all down to personal taste, I’ve selected 3 slightly different versions all with longevity in mind.
I currently have a pair of carvellas similar to the ones below, from a few years ago and I live in them during Autumn/ Winter.
Knee high boots
These look especially good with skirts and dresses but also work with skinny jeans and leggings. Heeled ones are great for going out outfits and dressing up a more causal style.
Chunky boots
If like me you remember Doc Martin’s from the first time round you might not relish putting a pair back on again, I know I’m showing my age. But Chunky style boots are a fashion favourite but also a style that does have longevity. I’ve selected a few that aren’t too chunky and of course a pair of DM classics.
Trousers wise wear with skinny jeans or leggings/ jeggings, these are not the best style to with straight leg jeans. What they do look great with is dresses and skirts as that toughen up the feminine feel of a dress/ skirt to give it a really modern look.
Which is your favorite?
If you have would like help finding your perfect pair of boots or any other items for your wardrobe have a look at my online styling packages, and contact me with any questions at all.
Thank-you for reading!
Caroline x
Caroline O'Connor Personal stylist 