For many women, putting on a good pair of boots is one of the main reasons to look forward to the transition into autumn winter. Some ladies wardrobes that I clear out have more pairs of boots than shoes purely because they love them so much!
I have decided to profess your love by revealing the different types and styles of boots that make up the most integral part of any woman’s winter wardrobe, when and how to wear them.
As it turns out, with the myriad options of boots on the market, there are only really a few different styles you need to have at any given time. I’m talking classical, investment pieces, not throwaway, trendy boots that you will wear for a season then throw away. These are my top styles of boots most women would benefit from having in their wardrobe forever. From the classic riding boot to an über-feminine stiletto, I’ve got them all covered.
The Heeled Boot
Every woman absolutely needs a pair of stacked heel boots in her wardrobe. Whether it’s black or brown, these are best in staple colours so you can wear them with just about any look. Make sure to invest in a pair with a solid, thick heel as they will be more comfortable. You want to be able to wear them out and about but still have that smart dressed up heel. Think Practical but still stylish. These look best teamed simply with skinny jeans.
The Chelsea Boot
These are one of my favourite types of flat practical ankle boots, pull on with stretch panels either side. I love mine with a slightly pointy toe which elongates your leg and makes you look slimmer. Again these look fabulous with skinny jeans. You could think about introducing suede here or a beautiful tan colour. Just remember to protect all leather and suede with a spray.
The Biker Boot
For casual but still stylish everyday wear, nothing beats a good biker boot. These are perfect for walking around town when you have a ton of errands to run or in very cold weather when you need a chunky weather proof sole but still want to look edgy. Invest in a quality pair with good leather, a solid sole, and reliable hardware are important. Saint Laurent or Jimmy Choo do some gorgeous ones but if that’s breaking the bank take a look at Carvela or All Saints. These can be worn with jeans but alternatively look fabulous with a jumper dress or skirt and thick tights.
The Stiletto Boot
Another type of must-have boot is the sexy feminine stiletto heeled boot. Again I would opt for this in black leather or suede perfect for evening wear, alternatively you could introduce a pop of colour here or even better the failsafe bang on trend every season leopard print. The more delicate feminine nature of this boot style works perfectly for an evening look with jeans, leather pants or a slinky LBD.
The Shoe Boot
The number one rule with a shoe boot is that the front of the boots needs to come down into some sort of V shape, thus elongating the leg and not cutting off the ankle when wearing a skirt or dress. This is a far more flattering style as it draws your eye downwards to the point. I would also advise to go for a closed toe so you have the option of wearing tights with them if you wish.
The Riding Boot
For this purpose, the Riding Boot can be defined as any boot that hits at the knee. With few exceptions, you probably don’t want these in your wardrobe to actually go and hop on a horse in, so the heel height is totally up to you. I personally like them with a small stacked heel (think more classic riding boot) so they are practical, perfect for shoving on over the top of your skinny jeans or with leggings or tights and dresses.
The Over the Knee Boot
Ending with my favourite style of heeled boot, ultra sassy and stylish, these are best done in a stretch suede so you get a bit of ruching and are easy to pull on. I have them in black, grey and taupe and wear them either over my skinny jeans or with tights and a little jumper dress. Again the heel height is totally up to you and dependent upon your lifestyle. Although mine have a block heel so still really comfortable to wear when going shopping or out for lunch. Stuart Weitzman albeit pricey are the best. If you struggle with calf width take a look at Ted and Muffy.
So they are my round up of my personal top 7 styles of Boots every women should have in her wardrobe. If you need some help in locating them, you know where to find me…
Your Fairy Clothes Mother x
Working as a Buyer and Image Consultant for high street fashion chains as well as high end designers, including Amanda Wakeley, Cleo now runs her own personal styling and shopping
service, helping real men and women to take control of their wardrobe.
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