These Boots Were Made for Walking: When to Wear Which Boots
Fall and winter are prime seasons for wearing boots. The right pair of women’s boots can elevate your outfit while protecting your feet from the elements. Update your cold-weather wardrobe with boots that suit your climate, lifestyle, and aesthetic so that you’re ready for anything. If you’re in need of a little fashion inspiration, check out our picks for the best women’s boots and when to wear them:
Boots for Rainy Fall Days
Fall has its share of rainy days in many locales. Be prepared with a pair of waterproof rain boots, which you can also wear during the rainy spring season. London Fog boots for women are ideal for wet weather, so feel free to indulge your inner child in a bit of puddle-splashing if the mood strikes. This brand has all-rubber boots with comfy cotton-blend lining — and buckles for a comfortable custom fit.
Or reach for a pair of Chelsea boots on cool, rainy days. The boot shaft is higher than an ankle boot but lower than a calf-high boot — on average, about five inches. A waterproof exterior and rugged, slip-resistant outsole are two more reasons to love this rain boot style, which comes in a plethora of colors and prints. The versatile Chelsea boot goes with everything from women’s jeans to your most comfortable gardening gear, so you may want to pick up multiple pairs.
Boots for Casual Fall Weekends
Whether you’re having lunch with friends, strolling around a fall festival, or visiting a pumpkin patch, there’s a pair of boots to complement your outfit. Assuming the weather is cool yet mild, a pair of knee-high women’s Muk Luks in a faux-suede material are a stylish option that you can wear with leggings or bootcut jeans. Although Muk Luks is a brand known for its cozy slippers, there are also boots for day and evening outings, too.
Ankle boots are another footwear style to consider for fall weekends. You can wear them with midi skirts and dresses or any type of jeans. There are leather and vegan leather ankle boots in brown, black, and other colors, and some are lined with faux fur for a plush on-trend look and extra warmth.
Boots for Date Night
Knee-high boots are also a good choice for date night. Wear them with corduroy leggings and a tunic top for casual fall style, or you can pair them with a fit-and-flare dress and cardigan sweater. Suede boots are a stylish footwear choice for date night, as are trendy knit boots. Wear a sweater dress or sweater-and-jeans combo in a color that matches your boots for a coordinated look that’s not too dressy or too casual.
You can also wear brown or black calf-high boots with jeggings for date night. A long pullover or tunic is an ideal accompaniment to this look, especially when you complete the outfit with a jean jacket or cardigan. Sweater dresses are casually elegant with calf-high boots, too, whether you choose a pair with knit detailing or a simple leather or faux leather pair with simple styling.
Boots for Cold Winter Walks
Winter walks call for a boot that’s slip-resistant and super-warm, so opt for an insulated style. Hiking boots with faux fur trim are one stylish yet practical option, or you can slip into a pair of Sherpa-lined winter boots for walking the dog or getting your cardio workout in. Many of these boots can be worn over leggings, jeggings, and even women’s joggers.
When dressing for a winter walk, start with women’s thermals made from silk interlock. Thermaskin fabric uses your body moisture to generate heat and wicks away perspiration to keep you dry and feeling fresh. Layer on your favorite sweatpants or jeans and a cozy hoodie. Depending on the weather, you may be warm enough with just that, or you may find it necessary to layer on a down coat.
Boots for Snow and Ice
Insulated boots are a must-have for snowy and icy conditions. Even if you’re only traveling to and from your vehicle on your commute to work, a pair of ultra-warm winter boots is imperative. When shopping for boots to wear in inclement weather, look for durable rubber outsoles with tread for slip resistance and a waterproof exterior. If snow boots don’t fit your outfit, wear them to the office and keep a pair of dressy shoes in your tote bag to change into when you get inside.
For a coordinated look, match your women’s snow boots to a down coat in the same color. Basic black is always a good choice, as you can accessorize with women’s scarves, hats, and gloves in virtually any color or print. Or you can choose neutral-hued boots like brown or black and pair them with a brightly colored winter coat for a trendy cold-weather style.
Socks to Wear With Boots
When choosing a pair of socks to wear with your boots, wool blends deliver the most warmth. There are also cotton and polyester socks in a variety of colors and styles, including slipper socks you can wear with boots or indoors. Regular crew socks are usually fine for fall, but for winter, you’ll want a thicker, heavier sock to wear with your snow boots. Explore the selection to find fall and winter boots in many styles.