OUTFIT DETAILS:  OVER THE KNEE BOOTS  ||  GRAY DENIM  ||  OLD LULU*S SHIRT, SIMILAR HERE  ||  CROSSBODY BAG  ||  SUNGLASSES (via Ditto’s endless eyewear program (use code MERRICKSART to get your first month free!))

When over the knee boots started showing up last year, I was totally dubious of them. I mean, some people looked good in them, but they seemed bulky and overbearing for an outfit.

And then like all good shoe trends, they stick around and better options become available over time. Also my Grannie always says about new trends, “first you abhor, then you endure, then you embrace.” Such is the case with over-the-knee boots…because now I love them.

They’re kind of a tricky trend to style, but there are three good options that for styling them that are pretty universally flattering:

1. With skinny jeans. Try it with blue jeans, black jeans, or gray jeans. Any of these three will work, no matter what color boots you own. Then pair it with an oversized sweater for a chic but cozy fall look. 
2. With leggings. This creates a slightly more casual look, most of the time. Add a sweatshirt and a messy bun and you’ve instantly made these boots more casual. 
3. With tunics or mini-dresses and skirts. Boots this tall should not be paired with long skirts or dresses since your legs look bulky if there’s no exposed leg. You want a good gap of leg between the top of the boots and the hem of your top or dress. To keep myself covered up when wearing shorter hemlines, I’d add a pair of opaque tights or leggings. 

Although my very favorite pair that I swoon over every time I see someone wearing them is way out of my price range, there are a lot of other good options out there at really reasonable price points. I’ve rounded up a few of my favorites in the widget below, but I’m particularly loving this tan pair (also comes in black), and this very simple and classic pair.

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photos by jana laurene