How to Wear Ankle Boots: Heeled or Flat?

Looking to wear ankle boots and 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 clothing and accessories that are easy to mix and match, suitable for everyday wear, and can highlight more unique pieces!

Boots, whether heeled or not, are one of those essential basics that every wardrobe needs. That’s why I’m dedicating this guide to them today.

No matter the occasion, ankle boots can be paired with most of your winter and autumn outfits. You can definitely wear them with a dress, whether it’s a flowing maxi dress or a short skater dress. They’re also perfect for elevating a chic look 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 worn with jeans or tailored trousers. Just pick ankle boots that match your style and complement your shape!

Want to find out more? Keep reading to discover:

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

outfit with women's ankle boots

When and Why to Wear Ankle Boots?

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

Ankle boots: the "Swiss Army knife" of your winter wardrobe

Easy to pair, ankle boots can be worn from autumn through to spring, with a wide range of outfits. Depending on your preferences and habits, you can wear them with or without heels. They go well with both dresses and trousers, making them very handy for those days when you’re unsure of what to wear with your outfit.

what to wear with ankle boots

When to Wear Ankle Boots?

The appeal of ankle boots lies in the fact that they can be worn for most occasions:

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

➡️ Zipper or elastic band styles are easy to put on and take off, making them super convenient for trying on clothes!

👉 Wondering which pair of shoes to pack in your suitcase? Ankle boots are a great choice if the weather is expected to be a bit cool. They can easily be paired with dressy outfits and worn again the next day for everyday activities without any hassle.

Boots or Ankle Boots: How to Choose?

Can't decide between ankle boots and long boots? Here are some tips to help you make your choice:

🔸 If you're planning to wear a short outfit (like shorts or a mini skirt), boots will be perfect for showcasing your legs. On the other hand, a long outfit (like pants or a long dress) will be enhanced by ankle boots.

🔸 If you want to visually elongate your legs, wear some ankle boots. On the other hand, wearing taller boots may balance the length of your legs with your torso.

women's ankle boots

How to Wear Ankle Boots Based on Your Body Type?

Are you wondering what type of ankle boots to wear to enhance your silhouette? I've put together a selection of personalised tips to help you showcase your body shape with these shoes.

You Are Short

If you're under 1.6m, I suggest going for low ankle boots with a heel. This combination will help you look taller by elongating your legs and improving your posture.

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

women's heeled ankle boots

You are tall

If you’re over 1.75 m, I recommend ankle boots with a small heel, or even flat ones (also known as "boots"). If you choose ones that rise high on the ankle (like mid-calf for example), they’ll beautifully enhance your legs without making them look too long.

If you want to wear heels, it is still possible, but avoid thick heels, as they might make your walk look a bit clumsy.

You have strong calves

Do you have lovely curves, especially around your legs? Consider it a blessing! With ankle boots, the shape of your calves will be highlighted, giving your overall look a chic, sexy, and very feminine vibe. If you want to enhance that even more, don’t hesitate to wear heels!

👉 Unlike boots that can sometimes be uncomfortably tight around well-defined calves, ankle boots remain comfortable throughout the day, even for those whose legs tend to swell.

Women's Round Shoes

How to Choose the Colour and Material for Your Ankle Boots?

There are countless styles of ankle boots, ranging from simple classic black leather ones to unique designs with various patterns and cuts. In the following paragraphs, I will guide you on how to choose the right ones to elevate your wardrobe.

Based on Your Style

Do you have a well-defined style? If so, it makes sense to choose a pair of ankle boots that match it:

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

fashionable ankle boots

Based on Your Physical Features, Enhance Your Look

Is your style more on the classic side, or does it change depending on the day and context? If that's the case, here's a simple tip to help you find the ankle boot colour that suits you best: choose a shade that is close to your hair colour. By creating a connection with the top half of your body, you’ll bring cohesion to your look and appear effortlessly stylish!

how to style ankle boots

What to Wear With Ankle Boots?

Wondering what to wear with your ankle boots? Here are some outfit ideas for you to pick from based on your personal style!

With a Short Dress for a Feminine and Sexy Style

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

women's ankle boots with short dress

In a Bohemian Dress During Winter

Are you obsessed with the bohemian style and want to incorporate it into your everyday look, even during winter? To wear your long bohemian dresses on chilly days, team them up with a pair of suede ankle boots. To complete your outfit, feel free to add a leather or denim jacket, as well as accessories like a fringed bag, a hat, or a colourful crossbody bag.

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

With a Skirt for an Adorable Look

Boots are not only really stylish with a dress, but they look great with a skirt too. No matter the length or style of your skirt, pairing it with boots will give you a chic and classy look. If you're wearing a short black or grey skirt, go for black boots. Otherwise, feel free to play around with different colours to add some originality to your outfit!

bohemian women's boots

Boots and Jeans: A Timeless Combination

Are you someone who loves wearing jeans every day? Then, ankle boots should become your best friends in no time. They pair beautifully with any type of jeans, whether they are:

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

The ankle boots will add a touch of femininity and elegance to your outfit, while still being super comfortable.

jean ankle boots for women

I hope this article has helped you choose ankle boots that will perfectly match your wardrobe, and create original and stylish outfits with these ultra-practical shoes! While waiting for the next article, be sure to check out all our fashion tips on our blog, so you can finally feel confident every day!

Need some inspiration? Explore fashionable ways to style ankle boots, be it heeled or flat. Check Out Our Ankle Boot Ideas