As a product of the 80’s, wearing combat boots tend to ignite nostalgic feelings of my younger years, particularly my teenage years. In fact, due to this nostalgia, I am probably more excited than the average millennial to see a rise in popularity again for this footwear trend.
However, every time a fashion trend resurfaces, it’s important to give the rest of the outfit a more modern touch catered around that trending vintage piece. It’s good to be able to acknowledge the amazing styling power a recurring trend or piece can possess without immediately giving off a more “dated” outfit vibe.
I’m positive I’m not alone when I say, hearing these boots referred to as “combat boots” contrives images in my mind of a more rugged or harsh boot; leading me to think combat boots can easily overwhelm an outfit if not worn right, which then leads me to uneasiness about wearing this boots.
But where there is a will, there is a way! Once I committed to the challenge of styling an outfit with combat boots, I found they seem to be more difficult to explain than to actually wear them in a fashionable manner. To me, basically, they are the Converse of the boot world: Not only are they comfortable and practical, since they are generally waterproof and breathable and so they can be worn year round, but they are also a classic stylish piece of footwear.
In my mind the key to creating a polished modern look, with this more chunky style boot, is to really understand how to balance your entire outfit. Unless you are one of the more blessed individuals that can pull off any fashion trend without losing a little bit of themselves or looking fashion confused (aka the only runway you walk on is the one you see in your mirror when trying out different looks or new clothing); achieving this eye-catching outfit with combat boots can be intimidating.
The good news is when fashion trends reappear, most likely there will be more variations of the piece. For example, when combat boots first became a fad, it could be described as a mid-calf boots, black or brown in color, with tightly laced thicker laces that ran up the entire front of the boot. However, with the “return” of combat boots, comes more available colors such as: army green, burgundy or white. Plus if you are feeling real bold you can switch up the color of the traditional black laces with something a little more daring and vibrant. You, do you!
Currently, I prefer the white combat boots because it softens the more masculine characteristics of these boots. I kept the black laces for a “cool-girl edginess”. When approaching how to style these boots, I wanted to balance the tomboy aspects of the boots with a more “Sporty Spice” feminine demeanor- because Spice Girls did rule the world in the 90’s.
I wanted to design a kind of hip new look for me without going too far out of my comfort zone. I did this by combining the 80’s grunge and 90’s “Clueless” essence of the white combat boots with a more informal elegance with the actual clothing pieces. I picked a white fuzzy, oversized turtleneck sweater casually tucked into a black satin, longer style midi skirt to produce a complete look.
I believe the unique white color of the combat boots assured the outfit wouldn’t look too bulky, rugged or harsh. To my pleasant surprise, wearing this outfit didn’t make me feel “out-of-date” or “old-school”; Rather, I felt both sophisticated and empowered with this NYC street style ensemble. I am confident Carrie Bradshaw would stamp this outfit “Sex in the City” approved. So, I’ll just leave it there…mic drop.
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