If there’s one thing that hasn’t changed about my personal style, it’s my love of styling ankle boots. Booties come in so many different materials, shapes, and heels, and over the years I’ve owned dozens of pairs, each with its own quirks: Western tassels, crocodile leather, edgy combat lace-ups. My preferred ankle boots of late have pointy toes and small kitten heels to add a little height and an interesting silhouette to my look.
It’s probably taken me a decade to master what to pair them with, but I’ve finally figured out the right outfit formulas to avoid looking like I’m starring on the Disney Channel in 2010 (though we love a good Hannah Montana–inspired outfit now and again). To test my knowledge, I challenged myself by styling the Steve Madden Jamiyah boots five different ways.
About the boots
Original video from Alanna Martine Kilkeary testing Steve Madden Jamiyah Boots in Brown Suede
The Jamiyah boots are a great choice if you’re looking for a boost in height without committing to a block heel. I love the pointed toe, which exaggerates the length of the foot and peeks out nicely when paired with wide-leg jeans. Go with the smooth black leather if you want something versatile enough to wear during the day, or the neutral tan for a brighter finish. I went with brown suede because it takes you from morning to night. Not to mention, the suede adds nice dimension and texture to any outfit, and I simply can’t get enough of brown chocolatey hues for fall.
How to style ankle boots with wide-leg jeans
Original video from Alanna Martine Kilkeary testing Steve Madden Jamiyah Boots in Brown Suede
The easiest way to style ankle boots is with jeans. Whether you pair them with a wide-leg or a baggy shape, make sure your jeans are full length, and not cropped. That way the top of the boots hides beneath the hem and peeks out just enough to elongate your legs. That’s important to me, as a petite girl; leaving the cuff of the pants out will help elongate the legs and let the boots act as a complement rather than a focal point. If like me, you’re going with a dark brown, I recommend pairing your boots with dark-wash or black jeans. Add a flowy scarf top, round sunglasses, and a fuzzy bag—the perfect transitional look for early fall!
