How to Wear Ankle Boots in Summer

Just because it’s warming up outside doesn’t mean you need to pack away all your boots along with the rest of your winter clothes. In fact, you can wear ankle boots in summer, and it’s actually an incredibly chic look. Because let’s face it, sometimes you just don’t have time to get a pedicure, and sometimes you need a little extra coverage for your feet and require something sturdier than flats and a bit less casual than sneakers. The trick to transitioning your favorite ankle boots into summer is to just remove the tights, and you’re basically good to go. They really work with anything, from denim shorts to dresses and skirts. You can even pair them with jeans if you opt for a summery shirt or tank on top.

Concerts and music festivals are the perfect excuse to wear ankle boots in summer. They’ll keep your feet protected from all the gross stuff on the ground, you can stand in them for hours (just stick to a flat or block heel), and they’re guaranteed to look cute with your festival and concert attire. I also love an ankle boot with denim cutoffs and a tee for a casual warm weather look that’s perfect for running after the kids or a weekend at the farm. Ankle booties and a dress are the perfect combo for a summer weekend in the city. I also love the look of ankle boots with a mini skirt for a night out, or try it with a midi dress or skirt for the office.

Here are my top tips for how to wear ankle boots in summer.

1. Team with dresses or skirts: Ankle boots look cute with dresses or skirts in summer.
2. Choose cropped denom or roll your jeans: If you’re wearing ankle boots with jeans in summer, either go for a cropped pair that hits above the ankle or roll them up slightly above the ankle to show off your boots
3. Wear them with shorts: Shorts can actually look really cute ankle boots. Choose a pair of shorts that hits above the knees. I prefer denim cutoffs for this look.
4. Pick boots in lighter colors: Lighter-colored ankle boots, such as beige, taupe, or gray give off more of a summery vibe and are still versatile.
5. Lean into the occasion: Ankle boots can be dressed up or down, depending on what you wear them with. A pair of denim shorts will give you more of a low-key vibe for daytime, an outdoor concert or casual dinner date (try a blazer and tee on top). Wear them with floaty skirts and dresses for a daytime look or even a rustic wedding or outdoor setting. Ankle boots are best left at home for dressier affairs.
6. Make sure to choose the right socks: Sock choice is critical when wearing ankle boots in summer. If you wear socks with your ankle boots, choose lightweight, breathable options that just barely show at the top of your ankle boot, or go for no-show socks.