Knee-high boots don’t get the attention they deserve. While many prefer ankle boots, the effort put into wearing a taller style pays off since they seriously elongate your legs. Whether you choose to do ’60s mod, ’70s earth tones, or the ’80s talon heel read on for five tips on how to finally nail the knee-high boot in refreshingly modern ways.
1 Nail the hem-to-boot ratio
The bias hem of this silk skirt perfectly hit the tops of your boots, meaning your legs will seem impossibly long. Team it with a chunky knit sweater for a cozy cute vibe.
Wilfred Montpellier Sweater, $158; aritzia.com
T by Alexander Wang Satin Midi Skirt, $175; net-a-porter.com
Zara High Heeled Leather Boots, $100; zara.com
DKNY West-Sider Leather Satchel, $149; donnakaran.com
2 Choose your favorite decade for inspo
Knee-high boots appeared in every decade, so it’s easy to lean into your fave. Love the ’70s? Try a burgundy leather boot paired with subtle nods to the era like a rich suede jacket.
A.P.C. Nico Jacket, $1,160; apc-us.com
Loeffler Randall Gia Tall Boot, $695; loefflerrandall.com
Gap Factory Denim Midi Skirt, $23; gap.com
Quay x Desi Perkins High Key Aviator Sunglasses, $65; nordstrom.com
3 Slouch it down
Sometimes the taller shaft on knee-high boots can feel constrictive. Try a pair in a soft suede with a purposeful slouch that gives your ankles some wiggle room.
Boohoo Satin Cowl Bodysuit, $20; boohoo.com
Topshop Sateen Jeans, $85; topshop.com
Labucq Babs Black Suede, $495; labucq.com
Versace Medusa Medallion Chain Belt, $900; versace.com
Jacquemus Le Vanity Mini Bag, $345; modaoperandi.com
4 Clash prints
Snakeskin boots are trending, especially in taller heights, but that doesn’t mean you have to pair the pattern with solid hues. Instead try them with an equally loud print, but in the same color family.
Veronica Beard Miller Dickey Blazer, $645; net-a-porter.com
Everlane Clean Silk Shirt, $130; everlane.com
Topshop Bleach Editor Jeans, $95; topshop.com
Ulla Johnson Jerri Boots, $795; modaoperandi.com
5 Pair minis with flat boots
Mini skirts and knee highs are a classic combo, but opt for a shorter heel if you’re feeling exposed. The sleek silhouette of a go go boot like this pair by Carel is both ’60s mod and currently modern.
Miu Miu Embellished Halterneck Mini Dress, $1,675; net-a-porter.com
Carel Malaga Boots, $549; farfetch.com
For Love & Lemons Mira Earrings, $117; forloveandlemons.com
Ashley Williams Hair Clips, $131; ashleywilliams.com
