There are some fashion editors who swear they're "over" over-the-knee boots. To them, they're passe and declasse, but I beg to differ. This little closet gem is extremely useful for more than one reason, and that's why it's here to stay. In big cities like NYC, all the women using the foot express on their commute are grateful for the extra layer of real or faux leather snugly keeping their legs warm under dresses, skirts, and coats. They add a touch of sex appeal and edge to an otherwise conservative or sweet look, which means if you didn't wear them to the office, you might want to pack them in your tote bag for cocktail hour. They're sleek and can be paired with a wide variety of pieces from skinny pants to rompers.
So what's the problem? Why are there naysayers in the high fashion world? A few women have ruined it for many by wearing thigh-highs and over-the-knees with too short minis, a la Pretty Woman. Others have victimized themselves with the wrong style of boots that have too-high heels and the kind of faux leather that has a telltale plastic sheen to it. Platform heels are okay, just not paired with an over-the-top outfit or too-shiny shaft. Don't be that girl. Instead, take the classy route with these boots and let them be a staple of your 2013 fall/winter wardrobe. Here are my suggestions based on past and present looks to inspire your over-the-knee style.
It's only natural to assume that these boots are hard to pull off, but you'd be dead wrong. With the right style, color, and attitude, you can absolutely rock a pair of over-the-knee boots — and subsequently be the envy of your friends. I've seen the sexy style on the runways at Givenchy, Altuzarra, Alexander Wang, and Proenza Schouler (just to name a few) — and when done right, you can look more like a high fashion icon than Pretty Woman. For my style tips, and to shop all of my favorite pairs, just keep reading.
- Be realistic about your heel height. Are you looking for an everyday boot? Go with a flat, riding-style pair in black, brown, or gray. If you're in the mood for something sexier, opt for a classic black over-the-knee boot with a thinner heel. Of course, you can always wear a wedge; it's a great blend of sexy and wearable.
- Don't count suede out. Suede boots, while a bit less weatherproof, are always chic and sophisticated, and they don't run the risk of looking as "lady of the night" as leather over-the-knee boots sometimes do.
- Over-the-knee boots look great with pretty much everything. Pair this dramatic, but surprisingly versatile style with tucked-in skinnies and something voluminous, like a flouncy mini or oversize cozy knit sweater dress. Another great way to style them is with super-skinny pants, a printed top, and a fur vest (with a wide-brimmed hat for maximum boho-cool effect).
3 Ways to Wear Them:
1. On the weekend
The fastest way to give skinny jeans and a slouchy sweatshirt an edge
2. For a night out
Try them with a pleated skirt. Skip tights to reveal a sliver of skin
3. At the office
Yes! An up-to-there pair with something demure, like a shift dress, is totally work-appropriate.
Tan
If you're long in the gams, a light colored boot will help even out your height, as will a light colored top.
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| 3.1 Phillip Lim |
Shiny Leather
Wear with a black skirt that touches just above the knee for the perfect contrasting look. A shorter heel and demure dress/skirt will offset the comparatively shiny texture of these boots for a sweet and sexy mix.
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| Jimmy Choo |
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| Christian Louboutin |
Flat Suede Boots
Black suede flats are an every day go to boot for fall and winter. You'll be surprised how they keep your calves warm in colder months. Pair them with black bottoms for a lengthening effect that precludes the need for a heel. Or wear them with shorts, tights and a blazer for a low key look.
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| Giuseppe Zanotti |
Form Fitting Stretch Boots
Wear these sleek, tight boots with an oversized sweater for a simple, yet totally chic look.
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| Altuzarra |
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| Brian Atwood |
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| Jimmy Choo |
Lace Up
These boots have an edgy vibe that keeps you looking chic- pair with a flared coat and all black ensemble.
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| Stuart Weitzman |
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| Christian Louboutin |
Equestrian
These boots are the perfect traveling pair. The equestrian touches and low heel make them perfect for just about any casual to casual-dressy look.
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| Sam Edelman |
Chunky Squared Heel
This style of boot is equally appropriate for day and night. Style it with leggings and a loose fitting top for day and a mini skirt, fitted blouse, and tights for night.
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| Pierre Hardy |
Two More Great Styles
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| Giuseppe Zanotti |
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| Stuart Weitzman |
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