Pairing coats and boots

I've noticed that advice on how to build a complete winter outfit is often lacking. Most articles focus on choosing the right coat, but it’s equally important to consider the boots you'll be pairing it with to create a cohesive winter look. In this post, I’ll share a few ideas, touching on vertical lines, some fashion history, and how to combine patterns and textures.

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out—I'd love to help!

  • When selecting a coat to pair with these boots, I considered the clean cut style of the boot and looked for a jacket that is elegant, complementary in colour but with a slight contrast so the boots don't blend into the jacket. Dresses would work well with this jacket as it has some volume around the lower section. Choose a dress the same length as the coat or ankle length so that you're not adding another break in your vertical line.

  • A long boot works easily with a wrap coat. Keep the shaft of the boot narrow or firm to follow the straight lines of the coat. I find many women struggle with the wrap coat as it adds unnecessary bulk to the midline. The wrap can easily be replaced by a belt - match the colour of the jacket if you are shorter and need length in your outfit, or a tan to match the boots. Look for elements in your outfit that refer to a particular reference period to follow to create a pulled together look. Here I've added accessories that tie back to the fringing on the jacket.

  • A neutral bomber jacket is easy to pair with many outfits and works well here with a flat boot that's in a similar colour. A cropped jacket is flattering on most figures as it's giving you detail on the waist. Because the jacket is cropped and the boots are short, it gives you length in the legs - use it! Wear anything that is high waisted to meet the waistband on the jacket and finishes at the ankle.

  • Bringing out some seventies vibes! The coziness of a teddy jacket really makes winter dressing enjoyable. Because this style is bulky, choose a length that finishes just above the knee. Pairing with knee length boots will give you height. The gap between the jacket and boot should be small enough that you can wear pants tucked into the boots or a knee length skirt.

  • The cocoon coat is such an elegant silhouette, I don't know why it isn't more popular. Generally it will finish mid length, I recommend wearing with a fitted pair of knee high boots or a mid-length with a little detail around the top of the shaft. Wear a boot in a different colour to the jacket for a little contrast. Add a silk scarf tied at the neck to complete the look.

  • A long leather coat is a statement piece. For versatility, choose a soft neutral. Pair with a patent neutral boot with a pointed toe, snakeskin as paired here or a slight pop of colour.