How to Style Knee High Boots this Winter
Knee high boots are the ultimate autumn and winter wardrobe staple. They're warm, they're flattering, and they instantly make any outfit look more polished without you having to try too hard. From school runs to office meetings to weekend walks, knee high boots simply work.
The beauty of knee high boots is their versatility. Wear them with dresses, jeans, skirts, or even over leggings, and you've got a look that feels put-together and practical at the same time. Here's how to style knee high boots for every occasion, colour, and outfit combination.
How to style brown knee high boots
Brown knee high boots are brilliant for creating warm, approachable looks that feel softer than black. They work beautifully with autumn colours like rust, mustard, olive green, and burgundy, and they're perfect for when you want a bit of edge without going full monochrome.
- Pair with blue or black jeans for a classic combo
- Try them with a camel coat and cream jumper for a sophisticated, tonal look
- Wear with denim skirts and chunky knits for that cosy weekend vibe
shoezone pick: Lilley Womens Brown Buckle Knee High Boot
How to style black knee high boots
Black knee high boots are the ones you'll reach for most often, and for good reason: they go with absolutely everything. They're sleek, versatile, and have that effortlessly cool quality that makes even basic outfits look intentional.
- Wear them with black skinny jeans or jeggings for a streamlined silhouette
- Pair with lighter colours for contrast
- Team with anything from floral dresses to tailored dresses – the ultimate investment piece
shoezone pick: Lilley Womens Black Buckle Knee High Boot
How to style tan knee high boots
Tan knee high boots sit somewhere between brown and beige, making them incredibly easy to style. They're neutral enough to go with most colours but add a bit more warmth and personality than black.
- Try them with white or cream for a fresh, clean look
- Pair with denim or neutral knits for effortless everyday style
- Wear with mini dresses and long coats for subtle added interest – without competing with your outfit
shoezone pick: Lilley Womens Tan Knee High Boots
Styling beige knee high boots
Beige knee high boots are having a moment, and they're perfect for creating those soft, tonal looks that feel very now. They work especially well with neutrals like camel, cream, and grey, and they're brilliant for elongating your legs when worn tone-on-tone.
- Keep your outfits in similar neutral shades for a chic, minimalist vibe
- Use beige boots to soften bolder colours
- Wear during transitional weather when black feels too heavy, but you still want the coverage of a knee high boot
How to style leather knee high boots
Leather knee high boots are the classic choice, and they're worth investing in if you can. They're durable, they age well, and they have that quality feel that makes your whole outfit look more expensive.
- Pair leather boots with pretty much anything: jeans, dresses, skirts, or tailored trousers
- Add instant polish to casual outfits – but also work brilliantly for smarter occasions
shoezone top tip: If you're only buying one pair of knee high boots, make them leather (or good quality faux leather) in a colour you'll wear constantly.
How to style flat knee high boots
Flat knee high boots are your go-to for all-day comfort without sacrificing style. They're perfect for days when you're on your feet a lot but still want to look pulled-together.
- Wear with skinny jeans or leggings for a sleek line
- Pair with midi dresses and jumper dresses for that cosy-chic autumn aesthetic
How to style chunky knee high boots
Chunky knee high boots are brilliant for adding weight and structure to lighter, more delicate pieces. They're also incredibly practical for winter weather, with sturdy soles that can handle whatever's thrown at them.
- Balance the chunkiness with fitted tops or streamlined silhouettes on top
- Wear them with slim jeans tucked in, or dresses and tights for contrast
- Team with oversized coats and chunky knits for that effortlessly cool, slightly undone look
shoezone pick: Lilley & Skinner Shetland Womens Brown Boot
How to style knee high boots for work
Knee high boots can absolutely work for the office, as long as you style them thoughtfully. Stick to classic colours (black, brown, or tan) and avoid anything too embellished or overly casual.
- Pair them with tailored trousers or midi skirts for a polished look that’s office-appropriate
- Add a blazer or smart knit for an outfit that’s professional but still has personality
Remember: check your workplace dress code first, especially if your office is quite formal.
shoezone pick: Lilley Womens Black Zip Up Knee High Boot
How to wear knee high boots with jeans
This is probably the first outfit you'll try when you get your knee high boots home, and it's a classic for good reason. The key is getting the proportions right: skinny or slim jeans tucked into boots create a streamlined silhouette that's universally flattering.
- Pair with an oversized jumper or longline cardigan for a relaxed weekend look
- Add a leather jacket or denim jacket for extra edge
- Make sure jeans can either tuck in comfortably (for straight-leg) or can sit over the boot shaft (if wide-leg)
How to wear knee high boots with dresses
Knee high boots and dresses are a match made in fashion heaven. The contrast between soft, feminine fabric and structured boots creates a look that's both romantic and practical.
- Try knee high boots with jumper dresses or midi dresses with tights during autumn and winter (boots add warmth and coverage)
- Floral and printed dresses also work – especially with neutral-coloured boots that won’t compete with the pattern
- Add a belt to define your waist if your dress is quite loose
3 winter knee high boots outfit ideas
Cosy weekend
For lazy Saturdays when you still need to look vaguely presentable, pair black flat knee high boots with leggings and an oversized chunky knit jumper. Add a longline puffer coat and a slouchy beanie for an effortlessly cosy vibe.
This outfit works brilliantly for coffee runs, weekend shopping, or walks when it's properly cold but you can't face full winter gear.
Smart-casual day out
When you need to look a bit more polished, try tan or brown leather knee high boots with straight-leg jeans (tucked in) and a fitted roll-neck jumper. Layer with a wool coat or belted trench, add a structured bag, and you've got a look that's perfect for lunch with friends, museum trips with the little ones, or anything that requires looking like you made an effort. Swap the jeans for tailored trousers if you want to dress it up further.
Night out glam
For evenings when you want to look sleek and confident, pair black heeled knee high boots with a mini dress or midi dress and thick tights. Add a leather jacket or faux fur coat for warmth and drama.
This combination works beautifully for dinners out, drinks with friends, or any occasion where you want to feel put-together without freezing. The boots add a touch of sophistication while keeping you warmer than strappy heels ever could.
Winter knee high boots styling: top tips
When temperatures properly drop, knee high boots become your cold-weather heroes.
Here's how to make them work for winter:
- Layer with thick tights or thermal leggings under dresses and skirts for extra warmth
- Add long coats, chunky scarves, and oversized knits to create that cosy winter aesthetic
- Choose boots in darker colours like black or brown – these feel more seasonally appropriate and hide winter weather marks better than lighter shades
- If you’re dealing with snow and ice, make sure your knee high boots have decent grip on the soles
- Consider treating them with a protective spray to keep them looking good despite the weather
Wrapping up
Knee high boots are one of those wardrobe investments that earn their keep season after season. They're versatile, flattering, and make getting dressed so much easier, especially when the weather's unpredictable
Explore shoezone's collection of women's knee high boots and find your perfect pair to take on the season in style.
Check out the shoezone blog for more style tips and footwear suggestions for every occasion.