We all have that one accessory that we wish we could wear everyday and with every outfit. But finding unique ways to style the same item with multiple different outfits can be challenging. Even if different combinations work with the same accessory, it takes some planning to make them all look equally effortless and stylish.
While styling any outfit, you may run into different challenges. Sometimes, you might have a specific item in mind but just can’t find it in any of your local stores. This is where shopping from an online women’s clothing boutique can be helpful to find the exact piece you need—which makes it so much easier to style a single accessory in multiple ways.
Ankle boots are the perfect example of such an accessory that, if styled the right way, can make any outfit go from run-of-the-mill to runway. If you’ve been wondering what to wear with ankle boots, Sparrow Style has you covered. Before we share our tips on how to style ankle boots, here is a basic guide for understanding the different kinds of ankle boots out there.
The Basics of Planning Outfits With Ankle Boots
Before you begin styling your outfits with ankle boots, there are a few key things to consider. Although there are many kinds of ankle boots, they can be grouped into four broad categories:
- comfortable, everyday flat ankle boots
- cute heeled boots for dressy or workwear looks
- warm winter boots for colder seasons
- printed/textured ankle boots to make a style statement
Choosing what to wear with ankle boots involves thinking about a variety of factors related not only to the outfit you’ll be wearing, but also to the occasion and aligning factors. Here are some questions to ask yourself when shopping and figuring out how to style ankle boots:
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Comfort
What does your average day look like? Would a heeled pair of ankle boots hinder or elevate your comfort as you go about your tasks? If you’re shopping for an occasion, will you be outdoors, where a flat sole might be more practical? Do pointed shoes make your toes hurt?
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Nature of Event/Outfit
Here’s how to style ankle boots for a specific event. Ask yourself if it’s going to be a formal event. Is there a dress code? If you’re making a fresh purchase, consider whether your outfits are usually dressy or more on the casual side. What kind of ankle boots would your usual outfits work better with? Should you pick boots that are formal and sleek, or casual and embellished?
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Versatile
How versatile are the pair of ankle boots you’re purchasing? Are they in a bright color or print that doesn’t really go well with a lot of your other clothes? These factors will determine how easy it is to style your ankle boots with a greater number of outfits in your closet.
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Body Type and Personal Style
Are you a tall person, or more on the petite side? This will influence the kinds of clothes you wear—which will determine the kinds of ankle boots that you can pair your outfits with. For example, a petite person may reach for skinny jeans more often, prompting them to look for ankle boots with a medium snug fit and a shaft that is roomy enough to tuck the jeans into.
These are just a few questions to ask yourself when you’re making a purchase or wondering how to style your ankle boots. It may seem tedious, but keeping these parameters in mind can help you create a stylish outfit that is comfortable but also replicable in different combinations.
How to Style Ankle Boots in 4 Ways
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For Work
Styling ankle boots for work is a popular choice because they can look formal while still being a fashionable staple in your shoe collection. While it may be safe to pick a neutral, solid colored pair of ankle boots for your work wardrobe, even certain colorful or textured boots can be styled appropriately for the workplace. If you’re starting from scratch and are struggling with what to wear, ankle boots with heels are a good idea to go with a power suit or a formal work dress.
However, if you’re opting for a flat pair of ankle boots, try to pick a pair that has a sleek design with minimal embellishment. Shoes with a narrow toe box can help elongate your feet. Pair this with any work appropriate top and your staple formal leggings. You’ll be stunned at how simple ankle boots make it to style your regular office outfit for a post-work night out with friends.
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For Date Night
If you’re confused about what to wear with ankle boots for date night, we’ve got you covered. You can elevate any romantic or dressy outfit with one of these trendy jackets for women and the right pair of ankle boots.
When you’re wearing skinny jeans and a dainty blouse, this can be contrasted with a pair of block-heeled sleek ankle boots. For a daytime or early evening date, a short or mid-length dress would work well with flat ankle boots. For maxi dresses, we suggest a heeled pair of ankle boots to return some height to your look.
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For Running Errands
Even a trip to the grocery store can make you a showstopper if you’re wearing the right shoes. Here’s how to style ankle boots in a way that complements your everyday, casual outfits while adding an element of style and comfort.
You can match your boots with any casual outfit regardless of how dainty or casual it is. Flowy summer dresses can pair well when juxtaposed with a solid set of combat boots. Or you can throw on your favorite graphic tee and leggings with a trusty pair of ankle boots.
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For Brunch
This is how you can style ankle boots to take your brunch outfit from basic to breezy in no time. This is a great opportunity to hop on the white boots trend and have some fun with a monochromatic ivory outfit. But if color is your favored medium of expression, we suggest accenting a vibrant floral look with brightly colored ankle boots.
For a cozy fall brunch look, accessorize a flowy long skirt and simple top with a cardigan thrown over your shoulder and suede ankle boots. Or try out some cute pants for women to go with a day jacket or chunky fall sweater.
Although there are so many ways to wear ankle boots, these are just some of our favorite picks. We love how ankle boots are adaptable to any style and can be worn in versatile ways to suit all kinds of body types. This allows you to stay true to your personal style when thinking of outfits to wear with ankle boots for all occasions.
Learning to wear one item in multiple ways can be a valuable skill to help you make fashionable choices and get the most use out of your favorite clothes and accessories. To browse more fashion tips and for inspiration on styling other pieces in your closet.
