Adrian
Women's ankle boots you can wear all year round
October 16, 2022
Women can never have too many shoes, and ankle boots, in their various styles, are the perfect addition to any wardrobe. These versatile shoes can be worn year-round, making them a great choice for those looking for stylish women's footwear that can be paired with a variety of outfits. Let's take a look at the most popular types of ankle boots and how to style them throughout the seasons.
The most popular types of ankle boots
This style of shoe gained popularity in the early 19th century, and today, ankle boots typically cover the entire foot, with the shaft reaching to or just above the ankle. There are so many potential styles that designers offer everything from versatile black and brown leather to animal prints, studs, embroidery, and metallic patterns. Nowadays, high boots in various styles have become a key feature of women's fashion.
1. Platform shoes
Chunky shoes are very popular and will add an edgy touch to any outfit. These shoes look great paired with tights, leggings, or skinny jeans, and can be worn with a shirt or chunky sweater for a casual daytime look. The chunky sole will be wearable year-round, so it's best to choose colors and materials that coordinate well with your basic wardrobe. When it comes to women's footwear trends, platform shoes are definitely making a comeback.
2. High-heeled ankle boots
High heels are a great option for a night out, and wide heels in particular offer both style and comfort. Whether you're planning a winter date or lunch with the girls, heels come in a variety of heights and styles, so you can look elegant, stylish, and ready for both day and night.
3. Chelsea boots
Chelsea boots were introduced by famed shoemaker Joseph Sparkes Hall, but it wasn't until the 1950s and 1960s that the boots gained their name, when they became extremely popular in the London district of Chelsea. Chelsea boots, like those from iconic brands like Red Wing, are a popular and versatile ankle boot style that can be worn throughout the seasons. The variety of colors and styles means Chelsea boots can complement almost any outfit.
4. Combat boots
Whether you're looking for practical boots that are perfect for tough outdoor work or stylish shoes that will add a touch of elegance to your outfit, combat boots are a great choice. They feature a thick, practical sole that provides excellent traction, and most designs look great with everything from jeans to delicate dresses.
How to best wear this iconic women's shoe style
With the wide range of shoe styles available, there are countless ways to wear them, and whether you're looking for a striking heel or a comfortable design, there's a style for everyone. It's recommended to always have a pair of brown or black ankle boots as a staple, as these neutral colors can be worn with a variety of outfits and can help your style transition between seasons. Of course, bolder colors, patterns, and details look amazing, but they may not be a universal choice for women's footwear that can be paired with every outfit in your wardrobe.
Various styles of ankle boots and shoes are often worn by celebrities on the red carpet or models on the runway. At Alexander McQueen's recent SS23 show, high ankle boots were a stylish accessory, paired with both trousers and dresses, featuring detailed embroidery. Chelsea boots were also recognized by Vogue as one of the iconic shoe styles everyone should have in their wardrobe.
Whether you're a fan of simple Chelsea boots or sturdy biker boots, you can wear tall ankle boots with everything from skinny jeans to dresses. Skinny jeans always pair well with ankle boots, but if you prefer a bootcut or boyfriend style, a great tip is to roll up the hem slightly to show off the boots. This is also a great way to show off the details in your boots, especially if you've chosen a bold pattern or color. If you pair ankle boots with dresses, they look equally stunning with or without tights, so they can be worn year-round.
The best seasonal ankle boots
As the weather gets colder and wetter, women's footwear needs to be practical and provide protection from the elements. Shoes with excellent grip are likely the best option, so durable biker boots and boots with thick platforms are ideal. Pairing them with skinny jeans and an oversized sweater or thick black tights and your favorite winter dress will help you create a casual, warm, and comfortable look.
If you can't bear to part with your favorite shoes as the weather warms up, you'll be happy to know you can still wear ankle boots in spring and summer. There are many styles that incorporate details like open-toe or sling-back designs so your feet aren't completely enclosed.
Perhaps in spring or early summer, versatile shoes like Chelsea boots can be worn with lighter clothes. This style of women's shoe often has a simple design with an elasticated side panel and a pull tab at the back for easy slip-on, making them an ideal choice for everything from weekend walks in the park to summer festivals. You can also wear stylish open-toe boots with a striped dress and a denim jacket, flats for a leisurely stroll, or heels for a summer beer garden.
