How to wear over the knee boots

I think we can all agree that there's a right way and a wrong way to wear over the knee boots. If you nail it, you look ten feet tall with legs for days and like you just stepped off the runway. If it's a big fat miss, you end up looking like Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman pre-shopping spree on Rodeo Drive. Great movie, love Julia, but hooker probably isn't the look any of us are going for. Also, Heidi Montag:

Do you hear that, Heidi? It's your $13,000 Birkin begging you not to associate it with that outfit.

So how can you make sure you get it right? Here are some tips:

1. Make sure to get a pair that fits well - With so many options, it can be hard to choose the best pair. But a lot of this has to do with height. If you're on the petite side (like me), you probably want to steer clear of any OTK boots that are super slouchy. The goal with OTK boots is to slim an elongate your legs, but a baggier pair can do the exact opposite by weighing you down and drawing the eye downwards (not in the good way). Opt for a sleek pair that hugs the shape of your legs like a good pair of leggings would. For you taller ladies, you can get away with a little bit more (#jealous). The key for you is to be sure they actually go over the knee. As in, if they fit you properly, I shouldn't be able to see your kneecap.

2. Show the right amount of skin - Just like the crop top trend that we saw this past summer, showing the right amount of skin makes all the difference between chic and, well...slutty. And while this is the perfect opportunity to wear that mini that's been hanging in your closet, I beg you, please make sure it's not too short or tight. A dress or skirt with a little bit of volume (as opposed to a bodycon) tends to look best, and about 3-6 inches between the top of the boot and the hem is the perfect peek of thigh. Opaque tights are also great to toss on. Oh, and if you wear skinny jeans or pants, make sure they aren't bunchy.

3. Balance is key - Over the knee boots are sexy and slimming by nature, so what you wear on top definitely matters. Layered pieces, a slouchy sweater or a long coat will keep the focus on how unbelievably long your legs look. This look is also ideal for playing with oversized pieces like cocoon coats -- one of this winter's best outerwear trends. My favorite combo? A cozy sweater, great blazer and blanket-size scarf.

4. Stick with a neutral color - Bright red suede OTK boots might seem like a good idea at the time, but it's not likely you'll get a ton of wear out of them. Opt for something in black, brown or tan and I promise you'll wear them all season long!

I'm still on the hunt for my perfect pair, and will be definitely keeping these tips in mind while trying on any that seem like potential contenders to add to my shoe collection. Speaking of, make sure to check out some of my favorites below!


XO,
Alison