How to: Wear Boots

 

Article By: Laia Farran   Print   Email

 

Thinking of getting a pair of boots? Fashion stylist Laia Farran gives you the low-down on finding the best style to suit you so that you can begin your search on the right foot...

Worn with skirts, inside and outside trousers, boots are key to looking chic. But what should you look for in a pair of boots, how do you determine if they're a good fit, and which style should you go for? We bring you some expert tips to help you land on your feet when shopping for your perfect pair…

The Right Fit
If you can never find boots on the high street to fit you, you are not alone; as many of 60% of women share this problem. Whether you have wide calves or 'gym' calves (muscular) there are several companies that cater for this particular problem. Plus In Boots, for instance specialises in wider fits for shoes and calves (it includes 6 calf sizes) so that you don't need to compromise on comfort when looking for fashionable boots.

Comfort
The last few seasons have seen boots walking up and down the catwalk like never before, securing their status in every woman's capsule wardrobe. But boots were originally designed to provide extra protection, support and warmth to the foot, and comfort was always paramount. Today, style and fashion have dictated certain looks that might reduce comfort, but it is important to always make wise choices where footwear is concerned.

We spoke to the team at The Natural Shoe Company, who suggested avoiding investing in cheap boots, as this is false economy. 'The foot bed, outer sole and upper material should be good quality.' Rounded toes are also advisable as it's better for the feet, but regardless of the shape, always make sure that you leave ¼ inch at the toe-box (or front section of the foot). "To check that the space is correct, you should be able to fit your finger between the heel and the back of the shoe," says Sylvia Saiote.

Length
The length of your boots is a personal choice. But whether you like ankle, knee or thigh length boots, there are some golden rules any fashionista needs to follow:

Ankle boots are a great alternative to shoes but they are to be worn with trousers only, never with skirts, as they will cut your legs to where the boot ends and make them look shorter.

Knee high boots look fabulous and are very versatile. They can be worn with dresses, but be sure the hem of the dress is above where the boot ends. If the skirt or dress covers the boot, your silhouette will become heavy and you will loose the streamlining effect boots can provide. If worn with jeans, wear them over the jeans if they are skinny or under if they are a bootleg cut.

Thigh boots have made a comeback on the catwalk, featuring in the shows of designers such as Chanel and Yves Saint Laurent. For those of you brave enough to wear them with a short skirt or dress, or over tight trousers remember that although they can look fabulous, you need to really dress them up and accessorise your outfit accordingly, as they can be considered 'OTT' if worn informally.

Style Summary: Still undecided about which style is for you?

Cowboy: A style that originated in the US, and has become a classic. Fabulous over and under denim and worn with skirts, this timeless boot is available is every colour and combination imaginable.
Pointed: Pointed boots are very rock & roll and perfect if you're into the rock chick look. Remember to leave enough space at the toe box when making your choice.
Round Toe: Round toe shoes are characteristic of the 1920s and 1940s elegance. Boots can look fabulous in this shape, particularly when they have a high heel. Chelsea boots, pirate boots and riding boots all have rounded toes and look elegant and stylish with the added bonus that comfort isn't compromised!
Sheepskin or 'Ugg' Style: These boots were first worn by surfers in New Zealand to keep their feet warm after being in the sea. They were recently worn by celebs such as Sienna Miller and Kate Moss, which transformed them into an uber trendy shoe. They are very comfortable and warm and can look great, but ensure you style them correctly (e.g. don't wear them with track suit bottoms) to avoid the 'slippers' look.
Biker Boots: The biker boot can be very sexy, the higher styles in particular, if worn in a feminine way. Team them up with short dresses or tight trousers and be on your bike…