The time to bid adieu to fall is fast approaching, but the change in seasons doesn't necessarily have to translate to an overhaul of your wardrobe. Many autumnal staples serve as winter essentials, too, so if you're mourning the end of cool breezes and colorful leaves — and therefore dreading biting windchill and shorter days — there's a silver lining: you can still enjoy some of your favorite pieces amidst the colder forecasts, like sweater dresses and shackets, blanket scarves, and, my personal favorite, knee-high boots.
Knee-high boots fall under the same category as printed jeans and all things Ugg — they're articles of clothing that can take functional winter outfits and make them fashionable. They serve a purpose — the more material riding up the leg, the warmer said leg will be in frigid weather conditions — but they're also stylish, so you don't have to sacrifice looking good in order to survive below freezing temperatures.
Oftentimes, the go-to knee-high boots outfit is a simple one: styled with denim, usually skinny jeans, and worn with an oversized sweater. This is all well and fine (and, admittedly, a staple in this writer's closet), but there are a plethora of other knee-high boots outfits just begging to be worn. Ahead, I've rounded up a few of my favorite pairings to inspire your day-to-day uniform heading into the colder months.
With a Romper
Here at InStyle, we worship a done-in-one outfit, where the only area you really have to put effort into is your accessories. Romper are the perfect example of this: simply slip into your favorite and you're practically out the door. Sneakers are a go-to pairing with these pieces if you want to keep things casual in the heat, but if you'd like to enhance your ensemble and make it work for chillier days, opt for knee-high boots (and even a pair of tights) for added high and contrast.
To Add Coverage to a Mini Skirt
Mini skirts are too cute to pack away for the entire winter, but while they pair well with tucked-in oversized sweaters, that sweet aesthetic won't keep you warm. Layering up is key — think thick pairs of tights and leg warmers — but beyond hosiery and socks, knee-high boots also act as a shield from the cold.
With Leggings
Boots and leggings attract like magnets, and the look can be dressed up, down, or sporty. The combination also makes for the perfect throwback fit if you're channeling the late '80s fashion or early '90s trends with a matching quarter zip, puffer jacket, and a headband.
To Emphasize a Monochromatic Fit
Color coordinating doesn't have to stop with your top and bottom. Go monochromatic from head to toe by finishing off the look with matching knee-high boots.
With a Sweater Dress
Basic? Maybe. Classic? Absolutely, so don't sleep on this cozy-cute combo. It's an easy put-together look you can wear to brunch with the girls, date night with that special person, to the office, or running errands.
To Dress Up a Shirt Dress
Depending on the shirt (i.e. a button-down, oversized sweater, or graphic tee), shirt dresses alone can give off a casual vibe. Adding a knee-high boot could change entire aesthetic. A skinny or chunky heel will make you feel a little more fancy (not to mention give you a little lift), while something like a cowboy-style boot will add some flare.
For Contrast to a Cozy Cardigan
If 2020 taught us anything, it's that being cozy should come first, no matter what occasion you're dressing for. Then, 2021 swooped in and emphasized that while, yes, being comfort is undoubtedly the key to feeling your best, you don't have to sacrifice style in doing so. The trick? Pair a cozy staple with something a little more dressy, like a knit cardigan and sleek knee-high boots.
As an Extra Layer Under Long Skirts
In order to survive harsh winter weather conditions (re: freezing cold temperatures), layering up is imperative. So while you might associate knee-high boots with mini skirts to give your footwear the utmost exposure it deserves, utilizing them as an extra layer of warmth under a midi or maxi-length skirt or dress is actually a pretty genius move.
For a Lampshading Moment
I'm well aware that Ariana Grande didn't invent lampshading, but she definitely brought the trend back around in 2018. To master the art of lampshading is simple: Pair an oversized sweater or hoodie with knee-high or over-the-knee boots and strut with confidence. Seeing as we're heading into winter, however, you'll definitely want to add a long coat and tights to the mix if temperatures start to dip in your neck of the woods.
Over Jeans
Jeans and knee-high boots are another classic pairing, but for 2021, don't just stick to skinny denim. Try pairing roomier footwear with baggier denim for a modernized '80s fashion look.
Make It Sporty
If when you think of knee-high boots you think of sleek ensembles, you're not alone. This type of footwear does lean more formal, but it has a sporty side, too. Pair your favorites with workout leggings and a hoodie, layer with an oversized puffer vest, and top off the look with a beanie. The finished product is polished but super lax, so you can look and feel cool, calm, and collected checking things off your to-do list.
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