With so many women's types of boots available, there’s a lot to explore and consider when choosing and styling your footwear. There’s a boot for every occasion, whether you’re dressing up, going casual, or trodding in the rain. From trendy Chelseas to cool combat boots, each style brings a unique vibe to your look.
Here’s a breakdown of must-have boots for women, along with tips on how to wear them to suit any event.
Picking the right boot means thinking about how it looks and how practical it is for the occasion. Here's a closer look at seven popular types.
Booties are a versatile footwear choice that can elevate any outfit. They pair well with jeans, dresses, and skirts, making them an essential year-round piece.
There are several bootie styles to choose from to add unique spins on your looks. Heeled options offer a touch of elegance, while flirty peep-toe designs work well during transitional weather.
How to style: Pair booties with skinny jeans or leggings for a sleek look. You can also wear them with midi dresses or skirts to class up your look. Add a leather jacket and crossbody bag for an effortlessly cool vibe.
What to avoid: Try not to wear ankle boots with pants that are too long or wide-legged, as the pants can bunch awkwardly at the ankles and make your legs look shorter. Stick with slim-cut bottoms or cuff your jeans to show off the boots.
Chelsea boots are ankle-height boots with stretchy side panels and a small pull tab at the back. Their sleek design makes them versatile enough to work with a variety of outfits, adding an effortless touch to any wardrobe. They’re available in various materials such as leather and suede, and they offer comfort and timeless style.
How to style: For a casual look, wear Chelsea boots with skinny jeans or chinos and a simple tee. If you’re going for business casual, pair them with tailored trousers and a button-up shirt. For more formal events like a graduation or professional conference, try leather Chelsea boots with a well-fitted suit.
What to avoid: Don’t wear Chelsea boots with overly baggy pants, as they can hide the boots’ sleek silhouette. Instead, opt for slim-fitting or tapered bottoms to keep the outfit balanced.
Knee-high boots are perfect for colder months, offering both warmth and style. There’s a type for every occasion, from office work to outdoor adventures. And if you're worried about finding a pair that fits your calves, don’t stress—there knee-high boots designed for all sorts of calf sizes.
How to style: Knee-high boots are great for layering over jeans or wearing with dresses and skirts. Pairs with pointed toes create the illusion of longer legs. When worn with shorter skirts or dresses, they form a smooth, extended line from the hem to the boot's tip, giving the legs a lengthened appearance. Wearing knee-high boots with skinny jeans also creates a streamlined look.
What to avoid: Don’t pair knee-high boots with baggy jeans, which can hide the boots and make your outfit appear unbalanced.
Cowboy boots blend traditional Western elements with modern fashion. Typically, they feature a mid-calf–knee-high design, pointed or rounded toes, and a stacked heel that adds height. These boots are usually crafted from leather or suede, making them both durable and comfortable.
Classic cowboy boot styles offer simple, clean lines with minimal embellishments, making them versatile enough to pair with everyday outfits. Western-inspired types often feature intricate stitching, embroidery, or cut-out designs, adding a bit of flair to your outfit.
How to style: Cowboy boots go well with flowy dresses, denim shorts, and casual skirts to create fun, laid-back outfits. In cooler weather, try them with skinny jeans and an oversized sweater. Pair your boots with a wide-brimmed hat and boho-inspired accessories like layered necklaces, fringe bags, and turquoise jewelry.
What to avoid: These boots don’t work as well with formal outfits like cocktail dresses and suits. Also, be mindful not to go overboard with themed accessories—it’s fun to add a Western touch, but piling on too many pieces can make the look feel more like a costume.
Combat boots are a great way to add an edgy touch to your outfit while enjoying practical, durable footwear. Built to withstand everyday wear, they make for a smart wardrobe investment. And many styles feature cushioned insoles and supportive designs, keeping your feet comfortable whether you’re exploring the city or heading to a casual event.
How to style: Combine combat boots with ripped jeans, a graphic T-shirt, and a leather jacket for a fierce style. Alternatively, wear them with a floral dress for a contrasting look. Accessorize with leather jackets, scarves, belts, and minimal jewelry.
What to avoid: Don’t wear combat boots with super formal outfits—this style is too rough for dressy looks.
Suede booties introduce a soft texture that contrasts nicely with the light, airy vibes of spring dresses. In the winter, they effortlessly complement cozy outfits, enhancing the overall warmth of your ensemble. While they do require some care, like regular brushing and waterproofing, the effort is worth it. With a little attention, suede booties can stay looking fresh and elevate your look throughout the year.
How to style: Suede booties are great with cuffed jeans, midi dresses, and skirts. For a trendy look, try wearing them with cropped trousers. A structured coat or oversized scarf adds another touch of coziness to the outfit.
What to avoid: Never wear suede booties in wet or rainy conditions, as water can damage the material. Also, steer clear of pairing them with heavily textured fabrics like bouclé, thicker corduroy, or tweed that could compete with the softness of suede.
Rain boots are a must-have for wet weather. Not only do they keep your feet dry, but they also add a fun pop to any outfit. You can find them in various colors, patterns, and lengths, so it's easy to match them with your personal style.
How to style: For a casual look, pair them with skinny jeans or leggings and a comfy sweater or raincoat. On warmer days, you can wear them with a cute skirt or dress for a playful, weather-ready vibe. Add an umbrella or a beanie, and you've got a complete rainy-day outfit.
What to avoid: Don’t pair rain boots with overly formal outfits. They’re made for practicality, so keep the rest of your look casual and weather-appropriate.
Finding the right boots for any occasion involves more than just picking a style you like. Here are some helpful tips to guide you in choosing the perfect pair.
New boots aren’t the cheapest of footwear, so it’s great to find pairs that suit various occasions and outfits. Owning a few pairs in different heights, materials, and colors provides options suitable for any season or event. You can also cut costs by thrifting preloved pairs on ThredUp.
If you’re going to be in your boots all day, make sure they’re comfortable enough for extended wear. Opt for boots with cushioned insoles, supportive arches, and materials that won’t pinch or rub. Leather and suede are great options since they mold to your feet, providing both comfort and durability. If you prefer vegan choices, there are plenty of high-quality synthetic materials that mimic these properties while being eco-friendly.
For maximum comfort, try ankle boots with a low heel. Make sure they fit snugly but still give your toes enough room to move.
For colder months, leather boots are a great choice since they provide both warmth and protection from the cold. When the weather warms up, suede or knit fabric boots are a better option. These materials are more breathable, allowing air to flow and making them ideal for spring or summer.
If you want to expand your boot collection without breaking the bank, check out ThredUp’s extensive selection of preloved boots. With tons of trends, sizes, and brands, ThredUp makes it easy to find high-quality women’s boot types that fit your style and budget.
You can also use our Improved Search feature to get outfit inspiration. Simply type in a phrase like “boho-Western boots,” and our AI-powered feature will generate numerous options that match the vibe you’re looking for. Plus, if you want to refresh your wardrobe, you can sell your preloved clothes on ThredUp, giving your items a second life while making room for new finds.