MID-CALF BOOTS are back in A Big Way

Ok, yes, it may feel difficult to embrace anything else when the ankle bootie has had it’s time in the limelight for years. It’s actually hard to recall a time when ankle booties weren’t the go-to boot. Don’t worry, they’re still a trusty style that isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. But that doesn’t mean we can’t make a little room for the bigger… and maybe better.

In the 60’s it was the go-go boot. In the 70’s it was a chunky platform. In the 80’s, a slouchy fit with a kitten heel. In the year 2020? It’s all of them. None of them are incorrect. One of the biggest and most surprising trends this year (and we project far into the next few years as well) is the mid-calf and knee-high boot, and for very good reasons.

With a midi skirt or dress

It adds feminine bulk to any look. Sure, “bulk” and “feminine” aren’t typically words we associate with one another, but it’s 2021, let’s slap a modern mindframe around what we decree as feminine. A boot that hits higher up on the leg is the ultimate layering piece to add dimension to that tea-length (midi) skirt or dress. Try them with a skirt or dress that has a little more swing to it. Let the dress hit lower, overlapping the edge of the boot. When there’s movement and the slightest peek of leg, it’s ultra sexy.

With a mini skirt and trench

We love this type of boot with a shorter skirt, too. Try it with a higher midi or even a mini for a 90’s-sexy vibe. Throw on a chunky knit and some tights to transition into winter, and in spring, keep it fresh with a perfect tan and a simple white tee for some edge. Layer a long trench jacket over for some flow—the trench with these boots is a true power move.

With good denim

The denim is crucial for this look. We don’t want anything too thin or stretchy, we’re aiming for that vintage-look (or better yet and super sustainable, actual vintage denim!) rigid pair of jeans, maybe even an exposed button-fly for a utilitarian look that is understated sexy. Top off this look with a silky, slinky blouse for a delicate contrast, or go chunky in a knit. We also love this look made casual for daytime in a faded sweatshirt tucked into the denim.

With shorts

To highlight the statement even more, go casual with shorts. We love both a flat or chelsea-style mid-calf boot with shorts, or really accentuate your legs in a heeled boot. Go for some tailored cotton trouser shorts, or casual with some cutoffs. The Bermuda length is back, believe it or not, so embrace a little fuller coverage with some long vintage denim cutoffs, an oversized button-up tucked in, or your favorite worn in band tee. Simple as that!