Rivkie Baum
With winter in full swing, learning how to style knee-high boots in a fresh and contemporary way will open up a host of outfit possibilities. A practical and versatile buy, we show you six knee-high boot outfit ideas to get you started.
When it comes to boot trends, no silhouette is as enduring as the best knee-high boots. While the style once again made an appearance on the runways, the truth is, as winter rolls around, a pair of knee-high boots will become a lynchpin to your winter looks. Neutral coloring is the wisest choice, as these boots will go with anything, with a host of bold colors very much 'in' this season, a bright pair of boots will instantly lift any monochromatic looks this winter. When it comes to fabrication, leather is the hardest-wearing material, although you could also look for vegan alternatives if you don't want animal products.
Knee-high boots are incredibly versatile, whether you go for a glamorous stiletto heel, a practical flat, or a directional block heel, this is one winter shoe you can rely on. And when it comes to how to style knee-high boots, the options are endless. From teaming with dresses of all lengths to adding polish to legging outfits, there is nothing that a pair of knee-high boots can't help to elevate. Like with many of the best outfits, balancing proportions has a lot to do with how to style knee-high boots well. Here are six outfit ideas to get you started.
How to style knee-high boots - outfit ideas from our fashion experts
One of the best winter boots around, knee-high boots are a true capsule wardrobe investment piece. Classic styles can go with multiple outfits and if well looked after can be integrated into your winter outfit ideas for many years to come. Here are six examples of how to style knee-high boots effortlessly, every, single, day.
1. How to style knee-high boots with jeans
What you need…
- Tan boots
- Your best jeans
- Blazer
This classic combo is a fail-safe option for weekend dressing. Although most people will veer towards skinny jeans as they are easier to tuck into boots, for a new season refresh try a slightly more relaxed, straight-leg jean or directional mom jeans to switch up your look. The looser fit around the thigh will add a retro spin.
A styling tip...
For a smart casual outfit idea, that feels immediately polished and put together, simply slip on your best blazer and a sleek shirt, with a pair of jeans and knee-high boots. A streamlined look, it will highlight your silhouette and feel smarter than wearing the best white trainers.
Our fashion editor recommends…
RRP: $325 / £225 | Tan boots are as versatile as black, but add lightness to any look, making them ideal for transitional outfits in spring and fall. The chunky heel adds heights without compromising on stability and we love the rounded toe.
RRP: $108 / £105 | These retro inspired jeans are a bestseller, largely thanks to their bum-boosting abilities. They sit high on the waist and have a relaxed, straight leg cut, that finishes just above the ankle bone. Available in eight different washes.
RRP: $99.99 / £59.99 | A checked blazer adds a fashion-forward twist to any look. The green and brown houndstooth featured here adds a much welcome pop of color to this classic look, while the oversized fit plays perfectly into this season's trends.
2. How to style knee-high boots with leggings
What you need…
- Flat boots
- Leggings
- Hoodie
When it comes to leggings outfits, many think that slipping into a pair of leggings is similar to your best loungewear, but styled right, leggings work brilliantly out the house too, and as their popularity has grown, so to has the choice of colorways and fabrications, meaning this is an item to play with this season. Knee-high boots are a great choice of shoes to wear with leggings too, instantly make leggings look smarter and more put together. Similarly to jeans, leggings will easily slip inside your boots, giving you a streamlined look that lengthens your silhouette in the process.
A styling tip…
Offset the tight fit of leggings with an oversized hoodie or sweater to help balance proportions.
Our fashion editor recommends…
RRP: $74.99 / £39.99 | Switch up classic black boots for a lighter shade of tan, as they're just as versatile. With a soft satin lining for added comfort, these chunky, lug sole boots, give a nod to the fall winter shoe trends 2022 that were all about stompy boots.
RRP: $24.90 / £19.99 | Some of the warmest leggings, this pair utilizes Uniqlo's HeatTech technology for a cozy but comfortable fit. In classic black, this pair of cotton leggings will literally go with any outfit and can be worn with tunics and long knits.
RRP: $115 / £69 | Made from scuba fabric for a modern touch, this stylish hoodie has sustainable credentials. The oversized fit is perfect for teaming with leggings, balancing out the fitted leg, while the soft pink hue adds a feminine touch to a sporty style.
3. Knee-high Boots And Long Dress
What you need…
- Heeled boots
- Printed midi dress
- Belt
For a flawless look that will work for your workplace, the best midi dresses and knee-high boots make a great combo, as styling knee-high boots with a longer skirt length is always a chic option. When it comes to silhouette, you can wear knee-high boots with any shape of midi dress, from a slink pencil shape to a full A-line.
A styling tip…
Add a belt to define your waist, as this will create a nipped in, hourglass silhouette, especially with A-Line dresses that then flare out.
Our fashion editor recommends…
RRP: $850 / £660 | When it comes to how to style knee-high boots, this pair add instant polish, with their super sleek design smartening up any look. Made from buttery soft Italian leather, the low-block heel makes them wearable around the clock.
RRP: $199 / £95 | This throw-on and go frock pulls out all the stops with its tie detail neckline, feminine floral print and elegant shirt shape silhouette for a timeless wear. Teamed with knee-high boots it gives off a gorgeous '70s-inspired boho style.
RRP: $95 / £58 | This simple belt will add a dose of glamour to your outfit. Made from leather with a gold-tone metal buckle, we love the horseshoe shape for added interest. This slim belt is ideal for cinching in dresses, or slipped on over a cozy knit.
4. How to style knee-high boots and a mini dress
What you need…
- Pointed boots
- '90s inspired mini dress
- Statement blouse
Short hemlines are one of the top fashion trends 2022, but if you find the idea a that much leg on show little daunting, you can offset a shorter style with longer boots. And while over the knee boots are big news this winter, a pair of knee-high boots will work too and are more versatile in the long run. Opt for pointed toes to help lengthen legs or stompy flat boots to pay homage to the '90s fashion trends around right now. Add tights or the best cashmere socks for extra warmth during the colder months.
A styling tip…
Make mini dresses wearable all year round by layering them over a flouncy blouse or a cozy roll neck for added warmth on your torso. Tights and boots will keep your legs warm.
Our fashion editor recommends…
RRP: $270 / £195 | Some of the best black boots, these sleek boots have a smart stiletto heel and reptile-effect leather. The pointed toe helps to elongate your legs, which will look endless when these are paired with opaque tights or leggings slipped inside.
RRP: $59.99 / £45.99 | The perfect day to night dress. This fit and flare shape is universally flattering, nipping in waistlines and skimming thighs for a leg lengthening finish. The higher neckline keeps it chic, whilst the belted waist adds extra detail.
RRP: $43 / £29.50 | Statement hairbands are great accessory to style with knee high boots if you're looking to elevate your boots for a more evening look. The embellished design adds glitz and glamour - ideal for slipping on for the party season.
5. How to style knee-high boots with a skirt
What you need…
- Smart boots
- Swishy skirt
- Your best t-shirt
Similarly to how to style knee-high boots with a dress, the humble knee-high will also take any skirt to new style heights. Any heel height works with this silhouette, although a flat boot will automatically feel a little more relaxed than heels and ideal for wet and cold days on the go. For a more dressed up feel, look for a more slender heel, over trend-leg chunky soles to add a softness to your look.
When it comes to skirt lengths and styles, anything works with boots, from minis to midi hemlines, knee-high boots will even look great as part of a long skirt outfit - especially if the skirt has a slit.
A styling tip…
Boots are a great item to wear with pleated skirts and with flared skirts, just add your best cashmere sweater for a daytime look.
Our fashion editor recommends…
RRP: $169 / £119 | Cream boots do make quite a statement, but this chic pair is ideal for adding a vintage twist to any skirt outfit. To style these knee-high boots, look for complimentary neutrals that will work well with these brighter, knee-high boots.
RRP: $239 / £119 | This pleated midi skirt could be your new wardrobe staple. The built-in belt offers a flattering finish, allowing you to highlight your waist and balance the wider A-line finish. Complete the look with a fitted, tucked in, white tee.
RRP: $36.50 / £41 | It’s worth paying a bit more for essentials with extra longevity, and this simple white tee is expertly made. While a white t-shirt will need to eventually be replaced, looking for fitted, breathable styles that retain their shape is a good investment.
6. Knee-high Boots And Trench Coat
What you need…
- Slouchy boots
- Trench coat
- Statement accessory
The trench coat is a longstanding fashion essential with a timeless, elegant appeal and a shape that compliments knee-high boots - and almost any outfit. Whether you choose to wear your coat open (and show off a killer outfit underneath) or fastened up, a trench coat and boot combination is a classic route to daytime sophistication.
A styling tip…
For a fashion-forward look, stick to a neutral color palette and team a beige trench with classic boots and gold jewelry.
Our fashion editor recommends…
RRP: £1,295 / £995 | The slouchy fit gives these boots a boho vibe while the pointed toe keeps them looking elegant. The suede fabrication adds an extra layer of glam and these boots could easily be styled with sequins for a party-ready evening outfit.
RRP: $475 / £275 | A classic with a twist, this trench from Ted Baker is the perfect transitional cover-up. When it comes to how to style knee-high boots, the trench coat adds a layer of tailoring to your look, elevating your boots to boardroom-ready.
RRP: $67 / £46 | This cute camera-style crossbody is roomy enough for all of your essentials and the zipper fastening ensures they stay safe too. The chevron stripe is a timeless design, while the colorful sections make this an all-year wear.
