10 Knee-High Boots Outfits to Keep in Your Rotation

Publish date: 2024-05-02

Whether you're putting together a coastal cowgirl look or getting ready to embrace jellyfishing, there's a knee-high boot to help get you there. The beauty of this everyday footwear lies in its versatility and the fact that it's universally flattering. Oftentimes, the go-to outfit formula is simple: a tall boot styled with denim and worn with an oversized sweater. This is all well and good (and, admittedly, a staple in our closet), but plenty of other knee-high boot outfits are just begging to be worn.

As of late, we've seen the fashion set stepping out in tall boots as they head to the office — and out to run errands, too. Riding boots with leggings? Yes, ma'am. Western boots with a mini skirt? You betcha. Tie-up boots with a shirt dress? Of course. Honestly, the options are seemingly endless with this stylish and functional boot that transitions well from season to season. To prove it, we've rounded up our favorite looks featuring knee-high boots. Some of these outfits lean casual, and others are full-on glam. Regardless, all of them demonstrate the wearability of this timeless footwear.

Ahead, trendy knee-high boot outfits to inspire your next OOTD.

With a Jumpsuit

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As fashion editors, we worship a one-and-done outfit, thus our obsession with jumpsuits. Simply slip into your favorite, and you're practically out the door. For a more casual look, slouchy knee-high boots make the perfect pairing.

To Add Coverage to a Mini Skirt

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Contrary to popular belief, mini skirts aren't only reserved for the warmer months. To transition your mini to fall or winter, opt for knee-high boots to shield from the cold. You may even want to layer up with a thick pair of tights and leg warmers, depending on the forecast.

With Leggings

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Boots and leggings attract like magnets. The combination can be dressed up or down, regardless of the occasion. For the perfect throwback fit, accessorize with a bucket hat.

With a Sweater Dress

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Sweater dresses may be basic, but they're far from boring. Paired with knee-high boots, this is an easy put-together look to wear to brunch or date night. Add a belt — or two, maybe even three — to elevate this style and enhance your silhouette.

To Elevate a Shirt Dress

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Depending on the shirt (i.e. a button-down, oversized sweater, or graphic tee), shirt dresses alone can give off a casual vibe. However, with the appropriate footwear like tie-up knee-high boots, your outfit can feel less Risky Business and more risqué.

For Contrast to a Cozy Knit

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Playing with contrasts, in terms of fabric, color, or both, is a surefire way to turn heads with your outfit. For instance, pairing a cozy sweater with a sequined skirt and vibrant knee-high boots creates a perfectly balanced look that also happens to nail color blocking to a T.

As an Extra Layer Under Long Skirts

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While we can't deny a good mini skirt tall boot moment, there's also something to be said of pairing said footwear with a lower hemline. Utilizing knee-high boots as an extra layer of warmth under a midi or maxi-length skirt or dress is actually a pretty genius move.

For a Lampshading Moment

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We're well aware Ariana Grande didn't invent lampshading, but we can acknowledge that she definitely brought the trend back. To master the look, pair an oversized sweater or hoodie with knee-high or over-the-knee boots and strut with confidence. You'll definitely want to add a long coat and tights to the mix if temperatures start to dip.

Make It Sporty

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If when you think of knee-high boots, you think of elegant ensembles, you're not alone. This type of footwear tends to lean more formal, but it has a more casual side as well. You can tuck jeans, cargo pants, or your preferred trousers into a riding boot for a lax, albeit polished, finish.

Add Edge to a Slip Dress

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Slip dresses are dressy by nature. But rather than pair yours with a strappy heel, reach for a knee-high boot instead. It will add interest and edge to your outfit, plus make it appropriate for fall.

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