Add These Classic Boot Styles to Your Wardrobe
As you age and your body stops changing and growing, you’ll want to invest in some seasonal staples that never go out of style. These classics will become your go-to as the seasons change. Then you’ll simply supplement your wardrobe with trendy pieces that change with the season and years.
Boots are among these classic staples, but there are so many styles, and boots can be a bit pricey. So, here are the essentials that you’ll want to invest a little more money in as you add them to your wardrobe:
Chelsea
The Chelsea was first made in 1851 because Queen Victoria wanted a pair of boots that didn’t lace up. They became popular in the ‘50s and ‘60s, especially in the UK.
What distinguishes a Chelsea boot is the black elastic side panels. These boots often have a tab on the back to make it easier to pull on. Another key feature is that they are wardrobe essentials for both males and females.
Cowboy
Cowboy boots were originally worn by farmers and cowboys who were settling the west. They took a very functional role back then, but now new designs and looks are rolling out every year.
A classic cowboy boot has a low angled heel, and a semi-pointed toe. Made out of durable leather, the sides are beautifully embroidered. The tops are rounded with side pulls that hit about low to mid calf. A red or a pink are actually included as classic colors in this playful, yet hard working boot.
Combat
Combat boots were initially designed for soldiers. The military still wears these sturdy treds today.
The combat boot is classified by its rounded toe cap, laces, higher collar and chunky sole. As with the Chelsea and Cowboy boots, these are worn by both sexes.
Ankle Bootie
The best ankle boot can be worn all year round, yes, even in the summer! The key to an ankle bootie is that it can be worn casual, or it can dress up an outfit.
Compared to all the other styles, the ankle bootie has less specifics to classify it’s design, therefore it can be a trendy style that you change every year. However, you can still have a classic style in your wardrobe if you aren’t into the yearly style change. An ankle boot ends somewhere around the ankle, but a bootie stops just below the ankle.
Riding
The riding boot was originally worn while riding horses, but the equestrian style is truly a classic these days. The style has vintage appeal, but has been upgraded over the years to include a more modern take. The best thing about the knee-high Riding Boot, is all eras continue to be on point.
Equestrian style boots are about knee-high with a flat or low heel. Some styles have buckles and buttons, some are plain. In the 70’s, platform knee-high styles were introduced and circle round regularly.
Rain
Rain boots are an essential, and very functional boot.
Obviously a rain boot needs to be waterproof, beyond that, the style is rather flexible. Some classic galoshes have great prints and patterns, but these can become a little outdated overtime, so consider a classic print (like polka dots or flowers). Otherwise, stick with a fun color or remain super simple.
Snow
Snow boots are purely functional, however, you can find some very cute and cozy pairs that you might want to wear even when it isn’t snowing outside! If you live down south, or in an area that doesn’t get a lot of snow, then snow boots are not essential at all. Rather, just stick to a good pair of rain boots and perhaps wear a cozy sock so your toes don’t freeze on those cold, dreary days.
The key to a snow boot is waterproofing, insulation, height and traction. Make sure the base of your boot has a good waterproof so your socks don’t get wet. The insulation needs to keep your feet and ankles warm, but it also needs to ensure that snow doesn’t get into your boot. Height also helps with this element. If you’re tromping through two feet of snow, you certainly don’t want short boots with no traction. Snow does turn to ice, so traction is important.
Stiletto
As you age, you’ll want to consider a stiletto. They are a great boot to have in your twenties and even thirties when you’re going out at night in the winter. You don’t want to be tromping through the snow on your way to a fancy dinner, party or gathering in little black peep toes. Instead, upgrade to a killer stiletto.
The great thing about a stiletto heel is that the rest is to be imagined. Opt for ankle height, or find a pair that goes up to the knee. These are going to be boots that you pull out of the closet only a few times a year for special occasions so look for a sleek design that compliments you.
Lug Sole
Lug sole boots aren’t a category on their own, but rather a style of sole. Initially designed as hiking boots, the sole was designed to prevent slipping on the ice for mountain climbers.
The lug boot has a chunky sole allowing your feet to be comfortable all day and gives you height without a heel or platform style. The sole is what classifies the boot, the top half can be whatever feels good to you. Usually a utilitarian Chelsea or Combat style, Lug boots can also be knee-high. Just like snow boots, these are not essential in your wardrobe if they don’t match your personality and style.
These boots are classics because of their shape and fit. The color and embellishments might change from year to year, so to keep it truly an essential in your wardrobe, stick to a clean brown, black and even gray leather (or suede). Look for a heel height and style that compliments your body type and select a round toe (although, there is room for change here!).
