The Combat Boot Is Still Our Go-To Shoe—Here’s How We’re Styling Them
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If you’re obsessed with combat boots, you’re not alone. What began as a completely functional boot designed for military purposes is now a versatile shoe that can easily elevate anything from leather pants to a dress. No matter what kind of event I’m attending, I often find myself reaching for my trusty combat boots to help take my outfit to the next level.
Looking for new ways to wear your combat boots? Keep reading to see six easy ways to style your combat boots this year, and how to take care of them.
Layer Up For a Cozy Fit
Shop: Wool Coat | Turtleneck Sweater | Trousers | Scarf | Crossbody Bag | Combat Boots
If you live in a place with cold fall and winter seasons, you know that looking cute and staying warm is all about the right layers. This timeless rust-colored coat is perfectly oversized so that you can layer it on top of as many sweaters as necessary, and paired with a cute beanie and cozy blanket scarf is exactly what you need to stay warm while looking chic. Cross-body bags have been trending for a while and still aren’t going anywhere, and this one is the perfect way to cinch the look together without feeling slightly bulky.
And of course, the star of the show is the Dr. Martens Jadon Platform Boots — perhaps the most well-loved combat boots on the market. The platform base will elevate any look (visually and literally) and are sure to stand the test of time. However, be prepared: these boots are not easy to break in. Made with real leather, these boots are sure to give you a few blisters in the first little while of wearing them.
Image: Nordstrom
Jadon Platform Boots
Dr Martens
Sizing: True to size but a bit stiff
Care instructions: Wipe away dirt using a damp cloth. Apply a neutral or correct colored wax-based shoe polish. Buff with a shoe brush to restore shine as desired.
Add an Edge to a Girly Dress
Shop: Tiered Dress | Gold Earrings | Layered Necklace | Combat Boots
One of my favorite ways to wear combat boots is by pairing them with a dress. This season I love short, tiered baby-doll style dresses. The color is perfectly versatile, and the style is flattering on every body type. Gold jewelry complements this color well, so opt for chunky hoops, a simple gold necklace, and as many rings as you’d like. You can layer up this fit for winter by adding sheer black tights and a black denim jacket.
These Steve Madden Bettyy Black combat boots look similar to Dr. Marten Jadon’s but are easier on your wallet — they’re less than $100!
Image: Zappos
Bettyy Boot
STeven Madden
Sizing: Runs small
Care instructions: Unlike with real leather, a protective treatment won’t penetrate and moisturize the faux leather but rather will add a thin protective layer so that the surface is easier to clean. Doing a regular, very mild clean is recommended: use warm water and a non-abrasive cloth. Wring the cloth out so that it’s not dripping wet and wipe over. Follow up by drying off with a soft cloth such as a microfiber cloth.
Unleash Your Inner Rockstar
Shop: Aviator Jacket | Band Tee | Faux Leather Pants | Gold Earrings | Gold Band Ring | Sunglasses | Combat Boots
There’s something about putting on combat boots that makes you feel cool— even if you’re just getting brunch with the girls. Lean into that rockstar vibe by wearing lots of dark colors and leather. Pair your favorite band tee with a leather or faux leather jacket with a cozy wool lining. Slim-cut leather pants can also easily be dressed up or down, and in this case, bring the perfect amount of edge to the look. Finish the look by adding lots of layered necklaces, bold gold earrings, and tons of rings.
Black combat boots are classic, of course, but what about red? I love how these red combat boots from Dr Martens add a pop of color to this otherwise muted, dark outfit, while not being too bright or overwhelming. This shade of red also goes great with light or medium wash jeans and rich autumn browns.
Image: Zappos
1460 Lace Up Boots (Cherry Red)
Dr Martens
Sizing: True to size
Care instructions: Wipe away dirt using a damp cloth. Apply Dr. Martens Wonder Balsam to the outside of your footwear to keep the leather supple, strong, and smooth. Once dry, buff vigorously to desired shine using a clean shoe brush. Repeat regularly to prolong the life of your footwear.
Try a chic autumn look
Shop: Sweater | Faux Leather Blazer | Skirt | Cat Eye Sunglasses | Black Tote | Combat Boots
Nothing says autumn chic like leather and a sweater! This gorgeous sweater can be styled with trousers for the office or with a mini skirt for a romantic date. Personally, I’d love to wear this outfit strolling the city streets on a sunny autumn day, pumpkin spice latte in hand. Paired with a stunning oversized leather blazer, small, chic sunglasses, and a roomy tote bag, this outfit is sure to turn some heads. Add sheer black tights if you need an extra layer.
These boots by Steve Madden are slightly different than traditional combat boots as they slip on rather than tying up with laces. With a tighter ankle, these boots compliment short dresses and help to elongate your legs.
Image: Amazon
Explorer Boot
Steve Madden
Sizing: True to size
Care instructions: Wipe away dirt using a damp cloth. Apply a neutral or correct colored wax-based shoe polish.
Don’t shy away from white
Shop: Teddy Jacket | Plaid Shirt | Trousers | Beanie | Backpack | Sunglasses | Combat Boots
Who says you can only wear dark colors in the cold months? Layering whites, creams, and beiges are a great way to bring life to your winter wardrobe. This outfit includes neutral layers, paired with classic—yet seasonal—colors and patterns. Keep yourself warm with a matching beanie, and pull the look together with fabulous sunglasses and a vegan leather backpack.
For this outfit, try switching things up by wearing white combat boots instead of black! White boots quickly refine any ‘fit, and the chunky heel makes it the perfect pairing to this casual yet cozy outfit.
Image: Nordstrom
Garret Boot
Sam Edelman
Sizing: True to size
Care instructions: Wipe away dirt using a damp cloth then spray boots with protective leather spray.
Go from business to bike
Shop: Black Blazer | Cropped Tee | Biker Shorts | Gold Earrings | Gold Necklace | Black Tote | Combat Boots
This outfit brings together two of my favorite fashion trends from the past year: bike shorts and blazers. This sharp blazer is a classic silhouette that always looks sharp, flattering and professional. The bike shorts help to dress down the entire look, while adding a level of comfort. Pulling off this look is all about the accessories, so don’t forget to add lots of your favorite gold jewelry, and a great bag.
The classic combat look adds an element of athleisure edge to this sporty look, making it the perfect outfit for a day in the city or even a casual date night.
Image: Zappos
Veronica Combat Boot
Frye
Sizing: True to size
Care instructions: Spray boots with a cleaning gel, let sit for at least one hour, and then rub away excess.