Everyone has their own preference when it comes to boots. Some people like them short, some like them tall, some like a heel, some like them chunky (I hate that word). I personally prefer them all because I’m incredibly indecisive and need to own every style in order to satisfy my wardrobe (yeah, I have issues but you already knew that).
My favorite thing about boots is that you don’t need to spend an arm and a leg on them. Sure, if you want super-duper high-quality boots then you should definitely splurge! But I have found that even affordable boots are of great quality and tend to last for years if you take proper care of them. I’ve had some of the below boots for 5+ years and they’re all still in great shape. And I didn’t spend more than $100 on any of them (except one, which I will talk about soon). So moral of the story, you don’t have to give up your firstborn for a new pair of boots. Just shop smartly and check out the options I have listed below.
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Ankle Boots
The most classic boot, in my opinion, is the ankle boot. There are so many different versions of them and they’re the perfect way to upgrade your outfit. The two below are my favorites because they’re the easiest to walk in (even though the suede ones took some practice) and I can pair them with just about anything. See below for some other cute ankle boots you need to add to your wardrobe!
Quick Tip
“Hailey, what tf do I wear with these?”
Ankle boots are definitely some of the most versatile shoes so you can pretty much wear them with anything. I suggest either some straight-legged jeans and a sweater, or a skirt (with tights) and an oversized sweater.
Accent Boots
These boots are my absolute fave because I’m a sucker for a pop of color (it has to be subtle though). I’ve loved this military green color for years and think it’s the cutest way to add some personality to your wardrobe. It’s such a beautiful balance between a stand-out color and a neutral, which is why it’s the perfect accent color for your boot collection. Although military green is where it’s at for me, there are so many more colors that could add a pop of wardrobe to your outfits! Especially colors like rusty red, navy blue, or even a plaid pattern! Check them out below.
Quick Tip
“Hailey, I’m bad at matching colors throughout my outfits, what do I do?”
I struggle with this too, especially because I need every part of my wardrobe to match. It’s a perfectionist problem. I suggest just winging it tbh and try to match tones. Like matching warm tones with warm tones, cool tones with cool tones. But at the end of the day, there are no rules with fashion so literally, just wear whatever you want. Do you feel me?
Platform Boots
If any shoe makes me feel like a bad bitch, it’s a boot with a platform. I’m not gonna sit here and act like I’m super short because I’m incredibly average (5′ 3″), however, I do love to feel taller whenever I get the chance. These boots are so badass and whenever I wear them I feel like I could take over the world (down to do that btw, if anyone wants to join). Just a quick note, the Doc Martens in this pic below are over $100 dollars but I had to include them because I think they’re worth the money. However, there are some really great alternatives like the green H&M ones listed below.
Quick Tip
“Hailey, some of these are hella tall. How do you expect me to walk in these?”
Well, that’s the beautiful thing about platforms, my friend! They make it way easier to walk in than, say, the heeled ankle boots I mentioned above. Just remember heel to toe. Heel to toe. You’ll be fine.
Brown Boots
As one of the best neutrals to have on your feet, brown boots are becoming increasingly popular this year! I know for a while I personally had issues with wearing brown boots because they were so tricky for me to match with my entire outfit (I personally have an ick with pairing black and brown, don’t ask why). To me, brown boots look the best with blue jeans and a neutral sweater, but as you know by now, you should wear them with whatever the hell you want.
Quick Tip
“Hailey, you have two very different browns here, what tone of brown should I get?”
Like I said above, I don’t love matching black and brown. Again, don’t ask why. I definitely think it depends on your wardrobe, but I generally would recommend purchasing a warm tone brown boot, not only because they’re trending right now but because they basically go with anything. Check out some of my favorite boots below.
Combat Boots
A trend that I’m thankful never died, combat boots! I used to get a new pair almost every year because I wore the shit out of mine every winter. This was before I knew how to take care of my boots as I mentioned above, but it just goes to show my dedication to this style of boot! Combat boots can be worn with basically anything, but I particularly like them with some black leggings or jeans. Check out some of the cutest combat boots below.
Quick Tip
“Hailey, how do I know if I should get flat or heeled combat boots?”
Personally, I don’t think there’s a huge difference between the two because most boots have a platform on them which makes them a lot easier to walk in. The boots below have various heights that should suit your needs no matter what you’re looking for!
Tall Boots
Everyone needs a pair of tall boots in their wardrobe. Whether they’re over-the-knee or they rest right on your calf, you need a pair. These two are my favorite, not only because they go with basically any outfit but they’re made of my two favorite materials, leather and suede (sorry vegans, I bought these years ago when I was ignorant. I try to buy faux or recycled animal products now). My favorite thing to wear with tall boots is some type of skirt or dress in some tights because I find them to look weird with some jeans (not all of them tho, you do you boo). These boots really know how to elongate your legs and make you feel 10 feet tall.
Quick Tip
“Hailey, how in the world do I store these without them losing their shape or slouching?”
I know how annoying this can be. The suede ones below started slouching at a certain point for me. So I bought these boot shapers that helped them keep their shape, especially for long periods of time when I’m not using them.
That’s All Folks
Whether you’re a first-time reader or an OG Feeling Good As Hail fan, I thank you for taking the time to read this article. I really enjoy talking about anything fashion-related and always love sharing some cute, affordable styles. Check out some of these other articles about other affordable items you need in your wardrobe now!
Must-Have Affordable Streetwear Items
The Best Winter Sweaters Under $100
17 Cute And Comfy Sneakers For Women
Also, a little off-topic, but I seriously cannot believe I have over 25 articles on my blog and it’s not even 6 months old. I thank you all for coming with me on this awesome journey of growth and I’m so excited for you to see what’s in store.
See you next week! xoxo
I love boots in the winter! I just bought a pair of snakeskin booties I am yet to wear. Thanks for sharing 🙂
I really love those boots specially brown is my fav color. Thanks for sharing
Thanks so much!
Love boots! Especially in the fall and winter. So easy to put a look together with dress, tights and some boots. Great picks!
I argree! Thank you!