How to Wear Ankle Boots with Short Legs

•

Published Oct 30, 2018

If you’re under five foot three, you’ve likely made the following excuses as to why you absolutely cannot do the “ankle boot thing”: They make you look frumpy; they cut off your legs; they’re bunching like crazy. Well, we’re here to prove you wrong. Here, five tips on how to style ankle boots for the shorter set.

Christian Vierig / Getty Images

Do: Cuff Your Boyfriend Jeans

You’ve heard this tip before, and it’s especially true for shorties. If you’re wearing your ankle boots with boyfriend jeans, please, whatever you do, roll up your hem. The sweet spot is about a half inch above the boot, so a little ankle shows and elongates your legs.

Caroline McCredie / Getty Images

Do: Try A Cropped Trouser

In the same vein, you can show off a sliver of ankle in pre-shrunken pants. We promise: Breaking up the line of your leg works wonders.

Edward Berthelot/ Getty Images

Don't: Wear Colored Booties With Tights

Or risk creating the “stumpy legs” look you’re trying desperately to avoid. Go monochromatic and reap the streamlined rewards.

Kirstin Sinclair/ Getty Images

Do: Find A Flattering Boot Silhouette

Pro tip: The opening of your boots should be a little on the wide side. This (and a flattering V-shape, if possible) gives your legs some wiggle room and avoids cutting you off visually.

Christian Vierig / Getty Images

Don't: Avoid Heels For Comfort Reasons

Heeled ankle boots are quite possibly the most walkable kind of heels. And that’s because said heels are often sturdy and stacked. Take advantage of the vertical boost whenever you can.

Susan Waits

Lousy baker, stellar shopping buddy

You can find Susan either blissfully buried in a pile of clothes or on a plane between L.A. and NYC.

read full bio