Which Ankle Boots You Should Buy and Why

It’s ankle boot season! Which ones should you buy? Which ones are the most flattering? Which ones are still on trend from last year and in style this year? I’m answering all these questions and more today!

 

Outfit Details:
White eyelet Dress
Ankle Boots

 

It’s fall, so let’s talk about ankle boots!

Ankle boots are my favorite shoe to wear in the winter. They’re easy to throw on with jeans, or wear with a dress and tights, and there are thousands and thousands of styles to choose from.

So which ones do you pick?!

I’ve been getting a lot of questions about styles of ankle boots — which ones are in style, which ones are great for all weather, and how to wear them.

 

Which ankle boot trends am I seeing this year?

This year I’m seeing more animal print (lots last year), as well as some western vibes, and lots of classic suede and leather.

 

Which ones are most classic?

If you want an ankle boot that will last you for the long haul, pick something in a neutral color like rich brown, black, or light tan, choose an almond shaped toe, pick a mid shaft height, and keep embellishments minimum.

Something LIKE THESE — timeless, chic, and super versatile.

Here are a few more classic options:

 

Are riding boots still in style?

Riding boots are definitely a timeless style of boot, and if you own a pair, don’t get rid of them! They tend to be more relevant and in style in different parts of the world. I saw very few of them in California during the six years I lived there, but on the East Coast, they’re a staple in the fall and winter. So if you’re thinking about getting a pair, think about what works best for your location.

Over the knee boots and heeled knee high boots are very relevant right now and have stayed in style for the last few years. I don’t see them going anywhere anytime soon. If you’re eyeing a pair, go for it.

 

Here are some really gorgeous over the knee boots and knee high boots, if those are more your style!

 

 

Which ankle boots are best for cold weather?

I talk a lot on here about wearing ankle boots, and how it’s most flattering to show a bit of ankle between the boot and the hem of your pants. But when it’s freezing outside, obviously showing your ankles is not an option.

In this case, choose a boot with a taller shaft, and one that is as fitted to your leg as possible. The wider the shaft, the wider your ankles look (not flattering). Lace up pairs like THESE ONES or THESE ONES are great and will keep you warm.

If you need a warm dressy pair, try something LIKE THESE ONES.

If you still want to wear your lower cut ankle boots during the winter, throw on some warm socks to cover up that ankle space. Or wear them with thick tights and a dress.

 

What is the “it” boot of the season?

Western inspired boots! There are some that are very cowboy, but many others that just hint at a wester vibe. I’m totally loving them!

But not to worry — buckles, combat boots, studs, and animal print are still on trend this year!

 

What should I look for in an ankle boot?

1. Heel height. This is total personal preference. I like a lower block heel (1-2 inches) so it can be dressed up or dressed down. If I get a boot with a heel over three inches, they’re basically for date night or church only. The lower heel will definitely be the most versatile for any lifestyle.
2. Toe shape. Choose something with an almond shaped toe. Pointed toes, squared toes, or super rounded toes are all going to look outdated quickly. Completely rounded toe shoes can make your legs look stumpy, so you want something with a bit of an elongated toe.
3. Color. If you’re buying your first pair of ankle boots, tan and brown are for sure the most versatile. Avoid beige, and stick to tan, gray brown, dark brown, or a rich bright brown.
4. Material. Consider your price point and your location. If you live somewhere rainy, choose an ankle boot that has waterproof material, or get your boots treated to protect them. Of course genuine leather will be the most expensive, but it will age beautifully.
5. Comfort. This is pretty obvious, but you won’t wear it if it’s not comfortable, so get something comfy that you can run around in with your kids, walk around in during date night or girls night, or even wear to the grocery store.
6. Shaft height. The shaft height on your boot is really important in the flatter factor. Let’s talk more about it below.
7. Shaft width. The space front to back matters too! If the opening is wide, it’ll make your feet look clunkier. Choose something with a shaft that’s more fitted all the way around your ankle.

 

How should my ankle boot fit on my ankle? Height and width?

Ankle boots come in so many varieties, including lots of shaft heights. The most flattering height of your ankle boot will depend on your legs.

The most flattering width is one that is slim to your ankle. Ankle boots with a wide opening will make your ankles look wider and is flattering to no one. So find one that is slim and fairly fitted to your foot and ankle. It’s going to be a different shoe for everyone because your ankles are all different.

The height of the boot also depends on your legs. If you’re short, shorter ankle boots are going to make you look…you guessed it, SHORTER. So go for a boot that hits above your ankle bone.

Also if you have short legs, ankle boots with side cut outs and scooped front shafts will be super flattering on your legs. I’ve linked a few below so you can see what I’m talking about:

 

If you have wide calves and ankles, those cut out ones above will be amazing on you too!!

 

What about embellishments, cut outs, buckles, etc?

All the embellishments are amazing. Typically the only thing holding you back is confidence. You feel like you “can’t pull off the [fill in the blank] boot trend.” Animal print, studded, western, etc.

YES YOU CAN. DO IT.

 

Help me style different kinds of ankle boots!

I’ve got you covered!

Last year I did a weekly styling session on my instagram stories called Get Dressed with Merrick. With our move and hotel stay and closet being under construction, these have been on hold for a few months.

But I’m excited to tell you that a brand new episode of GET DRESSED WITH MERRICK is coming this week, and I’m talking all about ankle boots and how to wear them!

Make sure you’re following along on instagram HERE – @Merricksart so you see it!