Booties are essential for any wardrobe. More versatile than knee-high boots, they are perfect for all seasons. Below, you’ll find inspiration for chic ankle boot outfits and some of the best women’s ankle boots available now.
Pairing booties with pants or jeans is straightforward, but matching them with skirts or dresses can be challenging. This article focuses on styling booties with dresses and skirts, especially as temperatures drop. While it can be tempting to stick to familiar combinations to avoid a mismatched look, we’ve got outfit ideas and style tips to help you find the perfect dress-bootie balance. The key is to ensure your booties complement your legs and create a sleek, chic, or edgy appearance.
General Guidelines for Wearing Booties
There are no strict “rules” in fashion, but here are a few tips to consider when choosing ankle boots.
Perfect Transitional Footwear
As the weather cools, you can still wear your summer skirts, dresses, or cropped jeans by pairing them with booties and a cardigan or light jacket instead of sandals.
Think About Boot Height
Booties can be flattering, but they can also have the opposite effect. If you want a slimming look, choose booties that end at the slimmest part of your legs or ankles to avoid drawing attention to the widest part of your calves.
Versatility
Booties go with everything and can be worn for work, evening events, casual outings, and more. Here’s how to pair them with dresses and skirts in the most flattering ways.
Create an Elongating Effect
Wear booties in the same color as your skin or tights to create the illusion of longer legs.
Match Boots to Dress Style
Choose elegant boots for formal dresses or lug-sole ones for casual outfits.
Wear with Tights
For an easy and stylish combination, wear your booties with opaque tights.
Different Styles of Ankle Boots
Leather Boots
A staple, black leather boots pair well with casual maxi dresses and a moto jacket for added warmth.
Suede Booties
Suede booties, available in lighter shades, are perfect for a softer look as the weather cools.
Chelsea Boots
From their Victorian origins to modern styles, Chelsea boots are timeless and trendy, with chunky lug soles being particularly popular.
Block Heel Booties
For added height without thin heels, block heel booties are flattering and versatile.
Kitten Heel Booties
Add a formal touch to your outfits with slim kitten heel booties, ideal for dinners or events.
Peep-Toe Booties
Peep-toe booties add a modern twist and can be worn with tights in colder weather.
Zip-Up Booties
Zip-up styles are convenient and versatile, perfect for transitioning summer dresses into cooler months.
On-Trend Booties
Update your outfits with trendy booties featuring unique colors and sculptural shapes.
Waterproof Boots
For rainy or snowy weather, opt for waterproof Chelsea boots for a modern look with your dresses.
Lug Sole Booties
Add edge to your outfits with studded lug-sole booties.
Outfit Ideas with Booties
Skirt and Sweater Outfit
Generally, “the shorter the skirt, the taller the boot.” Longer skirts can be styled with shorter booties. Maintaining a monochromatic look can create a leaner appearance.
Sweater Dress with Boots
For a balanced look, go monochromatic to avoid cutting your body in half visually. Booties paired with sweater dresses can be flattering without shortening your legs.
Evening Dress with Boots
Pair an evening dress with heeled booties or peep-toe boots for a glamorous yet unexpected look.
Casual Dresses and Skirts
Booties look great with casual dresses, especially when teamed with leggings.
Short Dresses with Boots
Choose short dresses paired with tights or leggings, and opt for heeled booties for an evening-ready look.
Midi Dress Option
Booties can be worn with any hem length. Show a bit of skin with midi dresses or wear tights when it’s cold.
Maxi Dresses
Booties complement maxi dresses well, especially when mixing formal dresses with casual boots.
Coordinated Looks
Matching your booties with your accessories, like a scarf, creates a stylish, cohesive look.
Summer Dresses
Transition your summer dresses into cooler months by swapping sandals for booties and adding a cardigan or jacket.
Capsule Wardrobe
Mix and match the outfits for endless combinations, adding tights or leggings for extra warmth in winter.
How have you been styling your booties this season? Share your tips and ideas!
For more inspiration:
– The best winter boots for women
– Best shoes with arch support
– Best wide calf boots for fall and winter