Wearing ankle boots isn’t just for the young, trendy crowd anymore. Ankle boots offer a unique way of modernizing outfits while adding an extra touch of class that will have heads turning.
My mother, who has recently turned 60, navigated many changes in style and fashion. She noticed that some items that used to feel comfortable no longer feel age-appropriate. However, one item that she has refused to give up is my trusty ankle boots. But I encouraged her to keep wearing what she loved and showed her some simple ways to wear ankle boots into my 60s.
Here, let me share tips and tricks on wearing ankle boots if you’re over 60, from styling suggestions to caring for your boots so you can seamlessly transition this footwear staple into your wardrobe for fall and beyond.
Choosing the Right Ankle Boots - Key Factors to Consider Over 60:
My mother learned that choosing ankle boots isn’t just about fashion. It’s also about comfort, versatility, and support. Here are some key factors she found to be crucial when selecting ankle boots:
Comfort:
At this stage of her life, comfort has become the top priority. She has found that boots with a lower heel or a wedge provide more stability and are easier on her feet. She also looks for boots with cushioned insoles and a roomy toe box for comfort.
Versatility:
A pair of boots that can transition from casual daytime wear to a more formal evening setting is a great investment. Neutral colors like black, brown, or gray are more versatile.
Quality Material:
Investing in boots made from quality materials like genuine leather or suede has proven beneficial for my mother. They’re more durable and mold better to the feet, enhancing comfort.
Proper Fit:
Getting the right fit is crucial. Too tight, and they can cause discomfort and blisters. Too loose, and feet slide around, causing instability. She found it helpful to try on boots later in the day when her feet are slightly swollen to ensure a comfortable fit.
Easy to Wear:
As she has gotten older, she appreciates ease and convenience more. Boots with zippers or elastic panels are much easier to slip on and off than laces or buckles.
Style:
Just because she is over 60 doesn’t mean she has lost my sense of style. She looks for boots with classic, timeless designs that still reflect her taste.
With these tips in mind, she has managed to build a collection of boots that are comfortable and supportive and add a touch of elegance to her outfits.
Color Coordination- Matching Ankle Boots with Your Outfits Over 60:
My mother has a fair share of experiences in matching ankle boots with her outfits. It can be a challenge and a fun way to express her style. Here are some strategies she found useful:
Neutral Colored Boots:
She has learned that wearing neutral-colored ankle boots in black, brown, or gray is a must. They effortlessly match most outfits in her wardrobe. She often pairs my black ankle boots with darker-hued outfits for a streamlined look.
Bold Colored Boots:
On the other hand, she enjoys wearing bold-colored boots as a statement piece from time to time. She has a lovely pair of red ankle boots, which she usually pairs with a monochrome outfit. This way, they stand out and add a pop of color.
Matching with Bottoms:
One trick she has learned is to match the color of my boots with her pants or tights. This creates a continuous line and makes her appear taller, a helpful tip for a petite woman like her!
Coordinating with Accessories:
Another fun way she likes to coordinate her boots is by matching them with her accessories. For instance, she might carry a brown handbag or belt if she wears brown ankle boots. It helps tie the whole look together.
Considering the Occasion:
The occasion also plays a significant role in her choice of boots. For casual outings, she opts for flat, comfortable ankle boots. But for dressier events, she’ll choose a pair with a bit of a heel.
Color coordination between ankle boots and outfits can significantly enhance your overall look. It’s been a journey of trial and error for her, but over the years, she has learned to have fun with it and use it to express her style and creativity.
Pairing with Pants: How to Wear Ankle Boots with Different Types of Trousers Over 60?
Pairing ankle boots with trousers can bring a fashionable edge to your outfits. Over time, she has realized that it’s not just about the type of pants but also the style and design of the boots that can make or break the look. Here are some additional insights that she has gathered from her experiences:
Ankle Boots with Heels:
Heeled ankle boots add a touch of elegance to any outfit. She often pairs them with skinny jeans or slim-fit trousers for a sophisticated look. The heel gives an excellent lift and helps elongate my silhouette, making her feel more confident.
Flat Ankle Boots:
Flat ankle boots are her go-to for casual, everyday wear. They’re comfortable and versatile, going well with various trouser styles. She especially loves wearing them with leggings or bootcut jeans for a relaxed, effortless look.
Lace-Up Ankle Boots:
Lace-up boots add an interesting visual element to an outfit. She finds that they pair exceptionally well with slim-fitting jeans or cropped trousers. The key is to show off the laces so she makes sure the hem of my pants falls just above the boots.
Detailing and Embellishments:
Boots with details like buckles, studs, or unique textures can be authentic statement pieces. She likes to keep the rest of her outfit simple when wearing these boots so they get the attention they deserve.
The Boot-Pant Contrast:
One fashion rule she swears by is to create a contrast between her boots and trousers. If she wears tight pants, she opts for chunkier boots, and vice versa. This helps create a balanced look.
Weather Appropriate Choices:
Lastly, she always considers the weather. She prefers lined boots made from durable materials like leather in colder months. In warmer months, she leans towards lighter materials and colors.
I hope you enjoy experimenting with these extended tips with your ankle boot and trouser combinations!
Casual vs Formal- Adapting Ankle Boot Styles for Different Occasions Over 60:
Navigating between casual and formal occasions as a woman over 60 can be challenging, especially when adapting ankle boot styles. But with my mother’s experience, I’ve come up with some guidelines that have helped her tremendously:
Casual Occasions:
Comfort is critical for casual outings like shopping or lunch with friends. She usually opts for flat or low-heeled ankle boots in neutral colors. Her go-to casual look is her pair of black leather ankle boots paired with blue jeans and a cozy sweater.
Semi-Formal Occasions:
She chooses ankle boots with a mid-heel for semi-formal occasions like a business meeting or dinner parties. Suede boots in earthy tones or classic black are her favorites. They add a touch of elegance without being too flashy.
Formal Occasions:
For formal events like weddings or galas, she prefers high-heeled ankle boots or ones with delicate details like embellishments or exciting textures. She often pairs them with a chic dress or a tailored pantsuit.
Conclusion:
After trying and retrying numerous combinations, I recommend playing with colors and textures to create the perfect combination that works for you. And if you’re ever in doubt about how to dress your outfit up or down for any occasion, remember: when in doubt, go with ankle boots. Ultimately, find inspiration in others who have similar styles to yours and keep their confidence in mind when wearing your ankle boots!
