Over-the-knee boots have been popular recently, but it’s a little tricky to wear them and not be mistaken as a prostitute on the street. There are several ways to tone down this unfortunate effect; these are my three preferred ways for the upcoming fall and winter.

Whatever you do, avoid wearing over-the-knee boots with a mini skirt or minidress with bare legs during the daytime. For clubbing, it’s fine. What you CAN get away with is wearing over-the-knee boots that are flats (without heels). Combine those with a pair of cosy, textured tights and a tasteful mini skirt or minidress, preferably in heavier autumn/winter fabrics and colours. You should also wear a long coat or jacket that falls at least to your hips to balance the short length of the skirt. You can accessorise with a fedora, some jewellery and, most importantly, a watch. Whether it’s a Swatch watch or a Michael Kors watch, a watch has the curious ability of making people who wear them appear a bit more intelligent (not unlike the effect of wearing glasses).

I really like the look of wearing over-the-knee boots with tapered jeans (aka skinny jeans) with a really casual, simple shirt. This really dresses down the boots, yet they’re still making a statement; the focus is clearly on them. Basics dressed up with a splash of colour or a sensual component like over-the-knee boots stay fresh, classy and edgy all at once.

I recently picked up a pair of plaid tweed shorts from H&M. Those shorts, or a pair of high-waisted khaki or corduroy shorts, would look brilliant combined with over-the-knee boots and a loose long-sleeved blouse (think 70s or menswear-inspired). The idea is that the provocative nature of the boots is effectively toned down a bit through the contrast of more masculine fabrics like tweed or corduroy. And vice versa: the tweed, plaid, corduroy (or whatever it is that you choose) and buttoned-up blouse are rescued from appearing too prim or school-marmish.

You see, fashion trends that might intimidate you simply require some thinking outside the box. Have fun!

Did you know?

Over-the-knee boots as items of fetish clothing date back at least to the 1950s when Irving Klaw costumed his models in them for his erotic photography.

-Tari

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