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.
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. The boots bring weight and attitude, while the softer pieces keep it light and season-appropriate.
These looks aren’t solely about mixing up texture—they’re also about changing expectations. Who says boots can’t be a summer shoe staple? 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
Knee-length skirts are a big part of the knee-high-boots movement. Where the skirt hem ends, the boots pick right up, creating this gorgeous 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
A pair of mid-calf moto boots instantly elevates any summer outfit. Try coordinating your boots with your bag for a look that feels thoughtful and pulled together.
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The definition of grungy chic.
Ruffles have my heart.
The prettiest pleated midi.
A baguette bag for the win.
Lace-Up Boots + Boxer Shorts + Hair Scarf
A lace-up detailing can soften the overall vibe, so pair it with some boxer shorts for that perfect balance. Bonus points if you add a crochet hair scarf.
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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
Ground a breezy white cotton minidress with a heavy pair of tall black boots. Trust me—the contrast is so flattering.
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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
An all-black outfit with a chic pair of knee-high heeled boots is so stylish, and not to mention, 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 that monochrome feel, try an all-white look with leather accents and tall moto boots for that unexpectedly cool vibe.
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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
Don’t be afraid to play around with prints. A floral dress paired with cowgirl boots gives just the right mix of rugged and sweet.
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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.
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These are all over my feed.
Dr. Martens Biker Boots? Um, yes!
So simple.
What gorgeous knee-high boots.
I love a thin heel.
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