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Love them or hate them, thigh-high footwear is having a fashion moment. Channeling an Eighties-meets-Pretty Woman vibe, over-the-knee boots were all over the high street stores as the first flush of fall fashion displayed key pieces for the new season.

This sky-high footwear comes in so many heel heights and styles there is something for all tastes from sexy to sporty. From skinny-legged platformed and vertiginous heels to wide Puss-in Boots-style galoshes with heels that are chunky or flat. . .

How to Wear Thigh-High Boots
One of the most versatile and fun trends this season is the over-the-knee boot. In Portland particularly, the flat knee high boot can get you to and from work in style. You can walk for blocks in these and since you can fold the tops up OVER the knee cap you can stay warm in this windy weather too! So hip you can head straight out after work without a change.
Whilst these over-the-knee boots look great over skinny-legged jeans or leggings they are also teamed with the season’s new mini length dresses. To balance out their sex appeal choose a chunky or flat heel or wear with a demure knitted dress for a more classy look.
Climb into these boots, like stockings or tights rather than slipping them on. After the first few minutes of walking they may have a tendency to slip down off the thigh a little but this gives them a more relaxed ruched, slouchy appearance.

Worn with leggings and a tunic and a few layered chains around the neck and you are street smart. With jeans, layered T’s and the endless scarf and it’s a perfect look for Saturday shopping. With shorts (only for the brave), a loose T and the boyfriend jacket and you rival Kate Moss for the hip city look.

My favorite  boot in town is the Bettye Muller “Relax”  (pictured below) at Zelda’s.

This boot oozes dressed down chic ala Nicole Richie.  Zelda’s also has the other pieces I’ve mentioned   (the endless scarf and layered chains, jackets). Speaking of jackets… It’s not the boyfriend jacket but it is one of the coolest coats I have seen in a while and the construction is amazing. This June Leather bomber jacket just arrived at Zelda’s. At $596, it’s the right price. Get it before it’s gone!

June Leather Bomber Jacket

When pulling together your over-the- knee look, take inspiration from the runway.  Vivienne Westwood’s Red Label (London Fashion Week Fall 2009) teamed  long boots with understated mini dresses in neutral shades. Alternatively, for the brave of heart, wear them with wool shorts, to embrace Muicca Prada’s Fall runway look.  For the urban sophisticate, pair the flat version with a tailored coat (ala Rick Owens).

However you style it, be bold.   It’s certainly the season for indulging in rich colors and fabrics. And nothing will make you forget about the frigid temperatures faster than slipping into fabulous footwear!

P.S. If you’re not ready to embrace the over-the- knee boot, but still want something “of the moment,”  give this stunner from L’Autre Chose (France) a whirl.  It’s tall, sleek and full of haute couture spirit.

L

-Kristin Spear, Stylist

www.kristinspearstylist.com

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