How to Dress Modestly with Over-the-Knee Boots

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I’m generally not a fan of investing in trends, but I’ m intrigued by the over-the-knee (OTK) boot trend. On several occassions I’ve seen a cute flat OTK boot on sale and been thiiis close to buying it, but hesitated because I wondered how can I actually work these into my daily wardrobe (without looking ridiculous)? I mean, they look great on other women, but can they work for me? Since I haven’t been brave enough to take the plunge, I enlisted some help from fellow fashion blogger, Tanya Wilkins, who has some helpful tips to share.

A beautiful pair of heels might give the height and confidence that we aim to achieve when putting together an outfit, but there’s a certain flair that comes with wearing a sleek pair of boots, almost making us feel powerful in a way. Although VisiHow says that not every style will work for every body type and size, so it’s important that you choose ones that flatter your shape rather than clash with your curves.

As the international retailer Lyst describes, there are plenty of boot styles to go around, from ankle to ones the end over-the-knees, with some more forgiving than others. Most people have come to believe that OTK boots are only suited for women with long, slim legs, but with the right clothes to match your footwear, boots of that length can virtually look good on anyone.

Another problem that women tend to have with thigh highs is that they can be too sexy. Despite the appearance, OTKs can easily be tailored to fit your classy sense of style, and there are several ways you pull off these shoes while still maintaining a modest fashion sense.

1) Wear matching pants

DulceCandy states that one of the easiest ways to look awesome in OTK boots whether you’re petite, curvy or leggy is by matching the colors of your shoes with your bottoms. Doing so will streamline your outfit, making the boots a natural addition to the ensemble.

2) Embrace the monochrome look

Taking cue from this picture of Kim K. on Your Next Shoes, pick out some monochrome separates to pair with your OTKs for a chic upgrade to the comfy airport outfit. To add some color to your outfit, carry around a brightly colored handbag.

3) Keep it casual

For a wearable casual look, you can downplay OTK boots by pairing it with oversized sweaters and long jackets, as suggested by Pop Sugar. Remember when you’re choosing between a simple dress or skirts, make sure you keep the boot-to-hem space to a minimum.

What do you think of this trend? How would you wear your over-the-knee boots?

author (1)About the author: As a Christian, Tanya Wilkins believes that there’s no reason to compromise your values for the sake of fashion, but that has never stopped her with wardrobe experimentation, editing trends according to her personal style. When she’s not writing a weekly fashion column for her local newspaper, you can catch her shopping at thrift store for vintage and unique
finds.

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The Comments

  • Avatar
    Taylor Jones
    02/29

    I’ve been wondering about this! Everytime I see a cute pair on the sale rack I’m so tempted but have NO IDEA what to wear them with. Maybe this will be my next experiment 🙂

    • Elizabeth
      Elizabeth
      > Taylor Jones
      03/01

      You and me both, Taylor! If you end up experimenting with them, please let me know. I need a little nudge to try this trend. Haha!

  • Avatar
    Alecz
    02/29

    Oh all three of the outfits you featured are so beautiful! I love how classic they’ve made the OTK boots. This is how I’d want to wear them!

    https://forsevenseasons.wordpress.com

    • Elizabeth
      Elizabeth
      > Alecz
      03/01

      Thanks, Alecz! Tanya had some great suggestions and photo inspo.

  • Avatar
    Sarah @ Bows and Clothes
    02/29

    I wasn’t sure of how to wear OTK’s modestly, but these are really great tips! Thanks so much for sharing!

    Sarah
    http://mybowsandclothes.blogspot.com/

    • Elizabeth
      Elizabeth
      > Sarah @ Bows and Clothes
      03/01

      All credit goes to Tanya! I’m goign to use some of her tips too!

  • Avatar
    Ashley L
    02/29

    They are so pretty but I can never seem to get the confidence together to try them. I feel ridiculous. 🙁

    • Elizabeth
      Elizabeth
      > Ashley L
      03/01

      I completely understand! That’s why I haven’t taken the plunge yet. I’m going to start with black, flat OTKs paired with black jeans to ease my way into this trend.

  • Avatar
    Jodie filogomo
    03/01

    I vacillated whether to buy a pair also, but once I did, I’ve never looked back. I especially love wearing skirts/dresses (even in the winter), so they’ve been a perfect compliment to them since they are taller and thus keep me warmer (here’s the link if you’re interested: http://bit.ly/1QpcPvA ).
    My theory when I’m not sure about an item, is to get it inexpensively to see if I really like it!
    Happy first day of March!! jodie
    http://www.jtouchofstyle.com

  • Avatar
    Hi Tea Style
    03/01

    I have always wanted a pair but haven’t bought one yet. Love all the looks! Great post!
    http://www.hiteastyle.com

  • Avatar
    Hollyrwolfe@ gmail.com
    03/01

    I would love to see a size 12 woman in a pair before I take the plunge!! How do they look on curvier woman? Do you have any example photos?

  • Avatar
    Rachel
    03/02

    Great different outfits! perfect boots!

    http://chicglamstyle.com

  • Avatar
    leticia justus
    03/09

    A person can hardly go wrong copying something that Miroslava Duma puts together . She is a top notch fashion icon ! Most times she is SO modest and just so classic with an offbeat twist. Fun post.
    leticia from kingmakerblog.com

  • Avatar
    Carly
    03/09

    OTK boots can be so tricky! Great tips. I’m a huge fan of the monochrome look with OTK boots. Particularly I think black pants with the gray OTK boots look amazing
    Dresses & Denim

  • Avatar
    Ciara at VeiledFree.com
    03/11

    Ahhhh! I love OTK boots! They can be bold or subtle depending on the outfit. Great post, girl!

    http://www.veiledfree.com