Sandals and flats? Too predictable. This summer, fashion people are opting for a knee-high style instead. Whether they’re Western, chunky, or a sleek moto style, pairing these bold boots with long linen shorts, satin skirts, and cotton minidresses creates a textural contrast that is just so satisfying and effortlessly cool. The attitude of the boots works beautifully when paired with soft, elegant pieces. That's the magic to this summer trend.
I’ve dedicated a whole IG folder to this “wrong-shoe theory” win, and the secret I’ve discovered is finding that right balance between edgy and airy. So just for you, here are seven of my favorite knee-high-boot summer looks that do it right.
Brown Boots + White Blouse + Knee-Length Skirt
You can't talk knee-high boots without mentioning knee-length skirts. They are central to the movement. Where the skirt hem ends, it kisses the top of the boot for a chic silhouette.
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Need to get my hands on these ASAP.
The darted waist is so flattering.
Love a sheet moment.
Lots of room for a lip combo, compact mirror, and a portable charger.
Mid-Calf Moto Boots + Pleated Skirt + Blouse
So edgy. So cool. I love a mid-calf moto boot and a pleated skirt. The pairing instantly elevates any summer 'fit. Bonus points if you bookend the finish of your boots to your bag. Looks so put-together.
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The definition of grungy chic.
Peter-pan collars are so cute.
The prettiest pleated midi.
A baguette bag for the win.
Lace-Up Boots + Boxer Shorts + Hair Scarf
These boots look lovely laced up. The bow detailing softens the vibe when paired with some fun boxer shorts. Add a crochet hair scarf as a fun accessory.
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Look at that lace-up detail! So chic.
Comfy for a rainy summer day.
So versatile.
This is when I wish I knew how to crochet.
Tall Black Boots + Cotton Minidress + Bucket Bag
Take a page out of NYC influencer Makenna's lookbook and ground a light white cotton minidress with a pair of heavy knee-high boots. They balance each other out. And with a basket bag, you're look is ready for a picnic in Central Park.
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A pair of black boots is a closet must-have.
A babydoll dress in summer? Classic.
It’s not summer with a raffia bag.
Heeled Knee-High Boots + Slip Skirt + Tee
I might be biased because I love an all-black outfit, but this just feels so rich. Black leather heeled boots and a sleek slip skirt are such an elegant pairing. Chic and stylish, and easy to replicate.
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Look at that heel.
Love the neckline on this.
So elegant.
Tall Moto Boots + Linen Shorts + Basic Tee
Keeping with the monochrome theme, an all-white ensemble with touches of leather and suede is how you do effortlessly chic. A pair of bermuda shorts meets up with the tall motor boots for an attitude-filled look.
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A classic pair of chunky boots.
Never too basic for a white tee.
Timeless.
What a buckle.
Cowgirl Boots + Floral Dress + Sunnies
Be playful with prints. A charming floral print paired with a chic pair of western boots is that perfect combo of sweet and rugged. Try adding a pop of color when choosing your bag. Look at this yellow handbag; it really brightens up this look.
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Now, those are cowgirl boots.
Butter yellow is always in the mix.
This dress is meant to be worn with cowgirl boots.
The green tint is so unique.
Shop More Knee-High Boots
These are all over my feed.
Dr. Martens Biker Boots? Um, yes!
So simple.
What gorgeous knee-high boots.
This red is gorgeous.
This post was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
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