The weather’s been a bit unpredictable of late – cold, then warm and then cold again. Play it safe in a pair of cosy and comfortable boots. Here Edgars gives advice on the styles on trend, and how to wear them.
Wedge edge
The wedge ankle boot is winter’s answer to comfort and style in one go. Wear with everything from skinnies, slim cropped trousers, dresses and skirts.
Over-the-knee
Higher heel equals longer leg, so pair with leggings or skinny jeans, a slouchy knit and an oversized scarf for an effortless feel. Dresses or skirts should be short and flirty, ending at least 2cm above the boot to maximise the look.
The ankle stiletto
Worn with cropped slim trousers, leather-look leggings, or your favourite skinny, the ankle stiletto boot is the ultimate outfit-completer.
Combat clever
Lace-up combat style boots are back, but they have been updated with glam trims like gold buckles and zips. Be sure to wear with feminine items such as pretty dresses and tights or leggings, slouchy tees and luxe cardigans. Style casually, with laces half-done, and a top knot to complete the look.
The perennial Dr Marten is back in both classic patent black and fabulous brights. Add black skinnies, a slouchy white tee and a red lip for modern punk feel, or take it easy and elegant with a long boyfriend sweater.
Classic rider
The low heel and long length make for an easy and chic look. Wear with skinny jeans or leggings for everyday ease. Layer up with a soft tee, cosy cardigan and beanie.
Cow girl coolest
Embrace the country trend with a classic cowboy boot. Team with a pretty dress and slouchy cardigan for a boho-chic feel or a long skirt and chunky pullover.
Finding the perfect pair for you
Finding the right pair of boots can be impossible. Some are baggy, others too tight. And if you find boots that look great with a skirt, they could be a disaster over jeans.
“Finding the perfect boots can be a huge dilemma, no matter what your shape,” says stylist Nicole Smallwood, whose clients include Elle Macpherson and Liv Tyler.
“Most boots come in just one calf width, so you cut off your circulation or settle for a baggy pair. The secret is to hunt down styles that work with your legs, rather than cram into on-trend boots that don’t suit you.”
Here, Nicole gives her tips to finding the perfect knee-high boot for every shape...
BIG CALVES: If your calves are on the bulky side, boots won’t zip up or will give a muffin-top effect. Choose styles with an elastic insert or panel, or buckles that you can adjust to fit.
THICK THIGHS: Wearing anything too tight below the knee draws the eye up towards problem areas. The wrong boots can be deeply unflattering as you’ve got nothing to balance out the lower half of your figure. So choose a pair that brings the focus on to your feet. Styles with studs, buckles and bright colours are perfect.
SKINNY LEGS: Skinny women have boot trouble, too. If you’ve got thin calves, they can flap around at the top and rub uncomfortably. Look for boots with zips, as these tend to be slimmer than those with buckles. In terms of design, you’re lucky as you can wear anything from bright colours to snakeskin.
SHORT LEGS: If you’re on the short side, you may find many boots too long. The solution: a style that stops on or just above the knee lengthens the leg. Avoid mid-calf styles as they’ll appear to cut off your legs, and look for a wedge or heel to boost height and confidence.
CHUNKY CANKLES: Finding boots to fit cankles (where there’s no clear definition between calf and ankle) can be a nightmare. Remedy this by going for a riding style that is the same width from ankle to knee. A flat biker boot works, as will a slouchy look with a stacked heel and an almond-shaped toe. – Daily Mail
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