Styling Advice

When To Wear Ankle vs. Knee-High Boots

posted on March 11, 2013 | by Amanda Holstein

When To Wear Ankle vs. Knee-High Boots

Once ankle booties came on to the scene, deciding between them and my always reliable knee-high boots became somewhat of a dilemma. And now that most of us own both, I thought I’d break it down and show you when to wear ankle booties vs. knee-high boots, depending on the shape and color of what you’re wearing. I see knee-high boots worn all the time when ankle booties are actually the better choice, so let me prove to you just how versatile your ankle boots really are. Now, keep in mind this guide is just my personal opinion. If you disagree, let me know in your comments (nicely, of course) below!

Dark Skinny Jeans:

Whether a deep burgundy red, or a classic blue jean, darker shades look great with both ankle and knee-high boots. Often times, knee-high boots can cut your leg in an inopportune spot, making you look shorter, but when paired with darker skinny jeans, you avoid that issue.

when to wear ankle booties

Boyfriend Jeans (or any non-skinny jeans):

I see way to often baggy jeans paired with knee-high boots. It’s an honest mistake, but listen up people. Knee-high boots were made for fitted jeans so you can avoid that bunchy area around the knee. Save your boyfriend jeans for ankle booties and make sure to roll them a few times using this handy-dandy guide :).

when to wear ankle booties

Light Skinny Jeans:

Now, this is debatable. But the way I see it, white or light colored skinny jeans are not meant for knee-high boots. I feel that knee-high boots cut off your legs more harshly in light colored pants, making you look shorter. Since light jeans are already not very slimming, shortening your legs with knee-high boots can make that effect even worse. I say it’s best to pair your white jeans with ankle boots to elongate the legs.

when to wear ankle booties

Printed Skinny Jeans:

Since printed skinny jeans are very busy, pairing them with a tall boot can distract from the pants and just make it feel like there’s too much goin’ on. I think ankle booties are a great option for printed pants because they allow the pants to be the focal point of the outfit.

ankle booties vs. knee-high boots

Shorts:

Now, my southern friends with their cowboy boots may not agree, but I’ve always felt that knee-high boots should never be worn with shorts. The two together can sometimes be a bit too much. Plus, the proportions cut your legs off in 2 different spots, again making you look shorter.

ankle booties vs. knee-high boots

Midi Skirts:

Midi skirts are already difficult to style and can often make you look shorter, so pairing them with ankle boots is a much better option. That way you can see the thinnest part of your legs and keep them looking long and lean.

ankle booties vs. knee-high boots

Mini Skirts:

For the most part, straight mini skirts or dresses go with both ankle and tall boots. To make sure the look isn’t too revealing, pair your mini skirt with a top that provides more coverage. A long sleeve sweater dress or something not too form-fitting or low-cut would work well with the knee high boots.

ankle booties vs. knee-high boots

Flowy or A-Line Mini Skirts:

Both ankle boots and knee-high boots work great with flowy dresses and skirts. The loose fit makes either boot appropriate. Choosing which shoe to go for just depends on the look you’re trying to achieve.

ankle booties vs. knee-high boots

Is this how you wear ankle and knee-high boots?