The perfect pair of boots can be a versatile wardrobe staple that you can wear with everything from a suit to a cocktail dress. But it’s not always easy to find a stylish and comfortable pair.
To help you avoid spending money on an uncomfortable pair, follow these tips for buying the best ankle boots.
Comfort
When choosing a pair of ankle boots, comfort is vital. These shoes are worn for long periods, so looking for boots that offer adequate arch support and cushioning is essential. The heel height also makes a difference, as a higher heel can cause pain and discomfort over prolonged wear.
The most comfortable pair of ankle boots will fit snugly against your leg. It will keep them from rubbing against your skin and help elongate your legs. However, be careful to avoid pairs that are too tight. It will be uncomfortable and may result in blisters.
Style
Ankle boots are super versatile and can be worn in various ways. For example, a patterned pair looks excellent with paper bag-waist pants and a slouchy off-the-shoulder pullover, while a lace-up style can be dressed up for work or evening events.
When styling your ankle boots, it’s important to remember that the point where they hit your leg will affect how flattering they are. Aim for a shaft height that highlights a narrower part of your leg, like your calf or shin, to elongate your legs.
A slim, straight, slightly cropped style works best when wearing ankle boots with jeans. Avoid jeans that are too tight at the cuff to prevent unintended bunching around the booties. This look works even better if you tuck them in, but only if the jeans fit neatly inside the boots without ruching or bulk.
Material
A pair of ankle boots can be a great addition to your wardrobe. They can be worn with anything from a skirt to jeans. If you want to wear them with pants, ensure they are skinny and tight at the waist to fit snugly inside your booties. It will minimize unintentional cuff bunching. If you have wider-leg pants, you can cuff them to the top of your ankle boots for an added touch of style.
Athleisure wear is all the rage these days, and a good pair of ankle boots will work with most of it. You can add a hat or beanie to finish off your look. Combat-style booties with thick lugs are great for balancing out sporty athleisure looks and go well with casual outerwear.
The point at which the top of your ankle booties hits your leg is a significant factor in how flattering they are. Find a height highlighting the slimmest part of your ankle and calf.
Price
While many of us want a cute pair of ankle boots, we also want something to keep our feet comfortable and warm all day. Invest in some booties with sturdy, cushioned soles and support for the ankles to ensure they will last. In addition, look for a pair with a wide opening for the calves so they can be worn with thick socks.
Finally, look for a pair that is made of quality materials. Choose a team that is made of leather, which tends to be more durable and breaks in well over time. Leather boots may be a bit more expensive than synthetic alternatives, but they are worth the investment in durability and comfort.
Heel height
The right heel height can make a world of difference when it comes to the comfort level of your ankle boots. Heels that are too high can cause discomfort for your feet, ankles, knees, and back. Heels that are too low, on the other hand, can make you look shorter and can also make walking long distances difficult.
The heel height should also be taken into account if you plan to wear your ankle boots with skirts and dresses. Experts recommend that your skirt or dress be at least a few inches below the ankle to avoid creating an unattractive gap between the pants and boots.