How to Wear Ankle Boots: Heeled or Flat?

Are you keen to wear ankle boots but unsure how to style them? What outfits should you pair them with?

You're in the right place.

As a fashion enthusiast, I’m always on the lookout for clothes and accessories that are easy to mix and match, suitable for everyday wear, and can highlight more unique pieces!

Ankle boots, whether with or without heels, are a must-have basic in any wardrobe, which is why I'm dedicating this guide to them today.

Whatever the occasion, ankle boots can be worn with most of your winter and autumn outfits. Of course, you can wear them with a dress, whether it's a long bohemian dress or a short skater dress. They are also perfect for enhancing a smart outfit with a short skirt or even a slightly longer pleated skirt, especially if you’re on the taller side. Very versatile, they can also be paired with jeans or tailored trousers. Just choose ankle boots that match your style and accentuate your shape!

Want to learn more? Keep reading to find out:

  • For what occasion to wear ankle boots,
  • How to choose between boots and ankle boots,
  • Which styles will enhance your silhouette,
  • How to choose your ankle boots based on your personal style.
  • Chic and feminine outfit ideas with ankle boots.

outfit with ankle boots for women

When and Why Should You Wear Ankle Boots?

Very versatile, ankle boots are worn by many women, regardless of their style. In the following lines, learn more about them!

Boots: The “Swiss Army Knife” of Your Winter Wardrobe

Easy to match, ankle boots can be worn from autumn through to spring and come in a wide range of styles. Depending on your tastes and preferences, you can wear them with or without heels. They can complement both a dress and trousers, making them very handy for those days when you’re unsure what to wear with your outfit.

what to wear with ankle boots

When to Wear Ankle Boots?

The appeal of ankle boots lies in their versatility, making them suitable for a variety of occasions:

  • To get to work,
  • To go out,
  • To go shopping

➡️ Zip-up or elastic strap styles are easy to put on and take off, making them really handy for trying on clothes!

👉 Wondering which pair of shoes to pack in your suitcase? Ankle boots are a perfect choice if the weather looks a bit chilly. They can easily be paired with a smart outfit and worn again the next day for everyday activities, without any hassle.

Boots or Ankle Boots: How to Choose?

Are you torn between wearing ankle boots and knee-high boots? Here are several tips that can help you make your decision:

🔸 If you're planning to wear a short garment (shorts, mini skirt), boots will be ideal for showcasing your legs. On the other hand, a long garment (trousers, maxi dress) will be beautifully complemented by ankle boots.

🔸 If you want to visually lengthen your legs, wear ankle boots. In contrast, taller boots tend to balance the length of your legs with that of your torso.

women's ankle boots

How to Wear Ankle Boots According to Your Body Shape?

Are you looking to find out what type of ankle boots will enhance your figure? I’ve prepared a handy selection of personalised tips to help showcase your shape with this style of footwear.

You're Short

If you are under 1.60 m, I recommend wearing short ankle boots with a heel. The combination of these two elements will make you look taller, by elongating your legs and improving your posture.

If you’re not keen on wearing high heels, you can opt for small flats of 3 to 5 centimetres, which are more comfortable. They are also suitable for relieving your back when you need to spend a lot of time on your feet.

women's heeled ankle boots

You are tall

Conversely, if you're taller than 1.75 m, I recommend ankle boots with a small heel, or even flat ones (which are also called "boots"). If you choose ones that rise high on the ankle (for example, mid-calf), they will enhance your legs without making them look overly long.

If you want to wear heels, it is definitely possible, but avoid chunky heels, as they may make your walk feel heavier.

You have strong calves

Do you have curvy legs? Consider it a true asset! With some ankle boots, the shape of your calves will be enhanced, giving your look a chic, sexy, and very feminine touch. If you want to emphasise this, don't hesitate to wear heels!

👉 Unlike boots that can sometimes uncomfortably squeeze pronounced calves, ankle boots remain comfortable throughout the day, even for those whose legs tend to swell.

Round women's shoes

How to choose the colour and material of your ankle boots?

There are countless styles of ankle boots, ranging from simple classic black leather to more unique designs with various patterns and cuts. In the following paragraphs, I'll take you through some options to elevate your wardrobe.

Depending on Your Style

Do you have a well-defined style? If so, it's a good idea to choose a pair of ankle boots that match it:

  • Rock n’roll, grunge ➡ Go for black leather boots!
  • Bohème, romantic ➡ Opt for lighter shades (camel, cognac, beige, cream) and materials like suede.
  • Classic, casual ➡ Dark brown boots will be perfect to match with all your outfits.

fashionable boots

Enhancing Your Physical Features

Is your style more classic, or does it change depending on the day and the situation? If that's the case, you can use this simple tip to discover the perfect colour for your ankle boots: choose a shade that is close to your hair colour. By creating a connection with the top half of your body, you will bring unity to your outfit and look effortlessly stylish!

how to style ankle boots

What to wear with ankle boots?

Are you wondering what type of clothing to wear with your ankle boots? Here are a few outfit ideas that you can personalise to suit your style!

In a short dress, for a feminine and stylish look

Worn with a short dress, ankle boots will draw attention to your legs and give you a captivating and feminine look. Skater dresses are particularly suitable if you want to add a romantic touch to your outfit. On the other hand, if you're wearing black leather biker boots, don’t hesitate to match them with a form-fitting dress, which will enhance your style.

women's ankle boots and short dress

Wearing a Bohemian Dress in Winter

Are you a fan of the bohemian style and want to incorporate it into your everyday wardrobe, even in winter? To wear your long bohemian dresses on chilly days, team them up with a pair of suede ankle boots. To complete your outfit, don’t hesitate to add a leather or denim jacket, along with accessories like a fringed bag, a hat, or a colourful crossbody bag.

👉 Would you like to have original and stylish bohemian clothing? Check out our online store dedicated to this style and discover the latest must-have pieces for your wardrobe!

With a Skirt for a Cute Look

Boots are not only lovely with a dress, but they also look great with a skirt. Regardless of the length and style of your skirt, pairing it with boots will give you a stylish and sophisticated look. If you're wearing a short black or grey skirt, opt for black boots. Otherwise, don’t hesitate to mix up the colours to add a unique touch to your outfit!

bohemian women's boots

An Unbeatable Combination: Boots and Jeans

Do you love wearing jeans every day? Ankle boots should quickly become your best friends. They pair exceptionally well with any type of jeans, whether they are:

  • skinny or slim for a casual chic look,
  • flare, for a boho-chic style,
  • boyfriend for an ultra trendy outfit!

The ankle boots will add a touch of femininity and elegance to your outfit while keeping you really comfortable.

women's denim ankle boots

I hope this article has helped you choose ankle boots that will perfectly match your wardrobe, and create original and stylish outfits with these super practical shoes! While you wait for the next article, take a moment to (re)discover all our fashion tips on our blog, so you can finally feel confident every day!

Need some inspiration? Explore stylish ways to wear ankle boots, whether they're heeled or flat. Explore Our Ankle Boot Inspiration