For the longest time, I only had eyes for block-heel ankle boots; no other boot style got a look in. However, a few years ago, I invested in the first knee-high boots I’d had since my teens, and they were a game changer. Aside from jeans, I very rarely wear trousers. Nine times out of 10, you’ll catch me wearing a midi dress. And after years of enduring chilly calves and not-quite-right hemlines and boot heights, knee boots swooped in and made every outfit (read: dress) I wore so much chicer and more put-together.
Fast-forward to 2022, and I currently have four pairs of knee-high boots in my footwear rotation: an on-trend chunky pair from M&S, which I bought as soon as I saw them on a colleague; a beige suede option from Sézane, which I invested in hoping it would make my clothes feel a little more French; a basic black pair that I pull on whenever I’m in a rush; and a burgundy set, which I snapped up last year in an attempt to bestow my winter wares with a bit of colour. They’ve all enjoyed a handful of wears already this year, and I know they’ll make me feel at my most stylish, even in the depths of winter.
As for outfits with knee-high boots, there’s no shortage of inspiration out there. Like me, influencers seem to be wearing little else on their feet right now, so I’ve rounded up all of my favourite looks in one place for you to peruse (and shop) at your leisure. From the skirt style that suits them best to the chic way to do the old ’00s jeans-tucked-into-boots look, scroll on to see nine outfits with knee-high boots I rate.
Style Notes: Knitted co-ords, even skirt iterations, can err on feeling casual, but adding a pair of knee boots instantly elevates them for more glossy occasions. Finish with a shoulder bag and you’ve got the ultimate, wintry going-out ensemble.
This looks seriously cosy.
Midi skirts and knee high boots are such a good pairing.
Black boots are the perfect contrast to the cream co-ord.
Style Notes: I first bookmarked this chic outfit from Monikh Dale last year, but it still holds up in 2022. While slip skirts might feel summery, there’s no need to pack them away when you have a pair of knee boots and some suede outerwear at your disposal.
This timeless jacket will work with jeans, dresses and of course – a slip skirt.
This fluid midi skirt will work hard in your wardrobe.
This deep red pair is the ultimate finishing touch.
Style Notes: I’m petite, and one of my favourite tricks for making me look that little bit taller is wearing knee-high boots in the same colour as my bottom half. Mette Sorrig takes this principle and makes it look so fashion with her ecru boots, white jeans and on-trend collared blouse.
The frilled collar adds a french-girl feel.
Paige makes seriously good denim.
The angled heel makes these instantly recognisable.
Style Notes: I’ve just invested in a knitted vest top, and I’m so glad I did. In tandem with my black leather knee boots, it’s helping me extend the lifespan of so many items, including my shorter dresses.
There’s nothing cosier than cashmere.
Make the most of your mini lengths all year round.
These could easily pass for designer.
Style Notes: Tucking your jeans into boots is one thing, but a pair of suit trousers? This member of the street style set has convinced me to give this suited look a whirl.
If, like me, you tend to stick to neutrals, this deep berry hue will add something different to your wardrobe.
Wear with a classic shirt, or layer knitwear on top for a more relaxed take on tailoring.
I’ve been dreaming about these boots.
Style Notes: Nothing feels more seasonally appropriate than knitwear and leather. Being a skirt and dress sort of person, I plan on re-creating this outfit with knee-high boots from Lydia Tsegay ASAP. That burgundy-and-black combination is just sublime.
This burgundy hue looks great on everyone.
The ribbed details offer a contrasting texture that adds to the luxe feel of this look.
These are truly timeless.
Style Notes: Sticking on the tailored-trouser thread, I’m also appreciative of this outfit from Olivia Lopez, who has single-handedly convinced me that I need a cropped woollen jacket this winter also.
The crop adds a modern touch to the classic peacoat.
Wide leg tailored trousers are a 2022 staple.
I’m obsessed with the pleated texture of these.
Style Notes: I live in knitted dresses at this time of year, and, like Noelle Venegas, I like wearing those with splits with a pair of knee-high boots. Though it never occurred to me just how cool a snake-print pair could be.
The funnel neckline is so chic.
Even in jewellery there’s staple pieces, and hoops are one of them.
Dear Frances focuses on pieces that you can invest in and wear forever.
Style Notes: Classic vintage-wash denim and edgy black leather is my favourite outfit combination. Throw in a pair of knee-high boots in an expensive-looking mock-croc finish, and this is a look I’d gladly wear on repeat during winter. Thanks for the inspo, Linda Tol.
This faux leather looks as soft as butter.
H&M’s denim shouldn’t be overlooked, especially as their plus range goes up to a size 30.
