JSU students are making a fashion imprint with boots

Tasha Thigpin
Staff Writer

Spring has sandals, summer has flip-flops, but fall and winter has boots, boots and more boots.

If there is one undeniable truth when it comes to a girl’s stylistic needs, it would be that she can never have too many pairs of shoes…and boots. But Fashionista beware, just like the wrong shoes can ruin your entire ensemble, the same goes for boots. With so many lengths and styles available this season, here are some tips for the different boot types to help you make the right footwear decisions.

1) Ankle Boots: When wearing ankle boots, watch the proportions because ankle boots can look awkward when not balance with the right lengths. The general rule is that you should wear tall boots with short dresses and short boots with long dresses but this rule is being challenged in the new fashion season with many girls paring them with leggings, skinny jeans, and short skirts and dresses.

2) Combat or Military Style Boots: Menswear styles are still peaking in women’s fashion. This trend can also be seen in women’s footwear. If you would like something bold, tough and more masculine, you may like military style boots. Military style boots have a low heel (sometimes there is no heel at all) and can include studs, buckles, and zippers.

Keiara Bennett, a junior, social work major from Jackson, Miss. said, “Combat boots are inexpensive and more versatile, so it’s easier to pair with everyday outfits.”

3) Mid-calf and Knee boots: These boots are always in style but know your occasion. Classic-rise boots come in a ton of different variations, each of which can put a different spin on an outfit. In general, flat and cowboy styles are more casual, while luxurious leather and suede boots heeled boots provide a more formal option.
“When its getting colder outside and riding boots come up higher on the leg, they provide more warmth. Also, they have a classier look to me. Combat boots are only suitable for certain outfits. Riding boots are timeless,” said Arianna Stokes, a junior history education major from Matteson, Ill.

Just because a boot is casual does not mean you can’t wear it with skirts and dresses, it just means that it is not ideal for very formal occasions or ultra-conservative environments. Remember to consider your calves. Classic rise boots can hit mid-calf or just below the knee. Either way, it is important that the boot does not gap too much. It should fit snugly but comfortably around your leg. If you have athletic or curvy legs, stretchy, slouchy, or zippered styles are a great option for you.

Brittany Peterson, a senior sociology major from Jackson, Miss. said, “I like wearing boots because they are so comfortable. There are so many cute ways to rock them. I prefer to wear mine with jeggings and a cute tunic or with a nice knee length dress, depending on the weather.”