How to Wear Calf Boots
November 18, 2024
As the weather turns colder, calf boots are always a favourite style choice. Hitting somewhere between the ankle and just below the knee, they come in a huge variety of styles and shapes. But one thing’s for sure – they never really go out of style!
That being said, because they can create a line across your leg, shortening it, they can be tricky to wear. So we’ve put together some tips on how to wear calf-length boots, whatever your size and style.
Calf-length boots if you’ve got bigger calves
If you’ve got bigger calves, you can still wear calf length boots. There are plenty of stylish options available in wider leg sizes. There are also loads of options in stretchy material so don’t worry if a boot seems like it might not fit to look at; if it’s stretchy or has an elasticated panel, there will be some wiggle room.
Team with skinny jeans or leggings and a pretty top, or play with proportions and wear an a-line midi-skirt that covers the tops of your boots.
Mid calf boots for short legs
If your legs are on the short side, heels are always a good bet to add some length and height. If you’re slimmer, a stiletto or narrow wedge heel is ideal for you. If you’re on the curvier side, stacked heels, chunkier wedges and cone heels are perfect to visually lengthen those legs.
Tip – avoid anything that cuts across the widest point of your calf as this will visually shorten your legs.
Calf boots for skinny legs
If you’ve got slim legs, you may be worried that calf-length boots will be too baggy for you, but there are so many styles out there that this should not be an issue. If you would like to add a bit of width, go for a boot that cuts across the widest bit of your calf, and team with skinny jeans or a pretty above-the-knee dress and tights.
Tip – steer clear of anything too wide at the top, to avoid the stick-legs look
Calf-length boots with dresses
Like all boots, calf boots look great with all different types of dresses, but the important thing is to get the proportions right. If you mix the wrong lengths of dresses and boots, it can make your legs look shorter.
Ideally, when teamed with calf boots, dresses should be cut just above the knee in order to visually elongate your legs. Heels can also help to add length and work well with daintier dresses. However the contrast between a pretty dress and a chunky flat or biker boot makes this outfit a style favourite.
Mid-calf boots and leggings
Calf boots and leggings make for a great combination for weekends and casual days. Leggings are both comfy and cosy, so go for a more relaxed look. Suede and leather are both great here. Try a slouchy, flat style in suede or a leather biker boot, and team with a longer-length jumper or cardigan.
Tip – keep leggings and boots the same colour for a super-leg-lengthening effect.
Calf boots and skinny jeans
Calf-length boots and skinny jeans are a match made in heaven. Skinny jeans can also be perfect for more casual occasions, but can be dressed up a bit more than leggings for going out or when the dress code is smart-casual.
An easy way to wear your calf boots with skinny jeans would be to wear black biker-style boots over black skinny jeans. Team with an oversized jumper or sweatshirt and a chunky coat for winter or add a T-shirt and leather jacket when the weather starts to warm up.
Tip – buy boots that aren’t snug to your calves to allow for material to be tucked in.
Calf-length boots with jeans (not skinny)
If you’re not a fan of the skinny jean, you can still wear your calf boots with other jeans, provided they’re still slim-fitting. If you prefer to leave jeans untucked, try cuffed jeans over a sock-style boot. Otherwise, boyfriend jeans can look great paired with slouchy boots for a casual, relaxed look.
Tip – in this case, don’t go for boots in the same colour as your jeans; this look is more about the contrast.
Calf boots in the office
Yes, you can wear calf length boots to work, but choose wisely. Keep to heels, and choose neutral colours. Black, beige, and brown will go with most other colours.
However, you will know your office environment, so if it’s more casual you may be able to get away with skinny jeans or a shorter skirt and tights with your boots.
Conclusion
As you can see, calf boots can be extremely versatile, so there’s no need to be afraid of them! Done right, they can work for all occasions and all body shapes, so it’s just a matter of finding the right style for you.
Check out the shoezone blog for more style tips and footwear suggestions for every occasion.