When you have fuller calves, finding boots that fit and are fashionable can be a tall order. But just because you have shapely legs doesn’t mean you have to get the shaft. Forgo orthopedic- or dowdy-looking footwear in favor of chic and on-trend options.
We’ve rounded up the best extended-calf boots around—from riding to moto—so all you have to do is pick your favorites and practice strutting your stuff until they arrive.
Shoehorns and Vaseline, it’s been real.
1Going Grey
Sleek, grey leather boots? Yes, please. In a color that’s as versatile as black, this streamlined style can go ultra-femme with a pretty silk dress, or downtown hip with skinny black jeans or leather leggings and an oversize sweatshirt.
2High Hopes
We’re not so sure these boots were made for walking, but we love them nonetheless. Plus, finding a stiletto heel with a generous calf is no easy feat, which makes them all the more alluring. And the sexy straps will surely amp up any look. Crank up the heat by pairing these boots with a body-hugging mini-dress, or play it cool in a looser fitting, black cotton midi frock.
INC International Concepts Taigi Wide Calf Dress Boots, $130
3Like Putty in Your Hands
Neutral doesn’t necessarily mean boring. In fact, these putty-colored boots provide the perfect canvas on which to build your look. Pair them with a patterned midi dress or wear with faded blue skinny jeans (tucked in) and an oversize sweater in a winter hue, like burgundy.
4Ride On
Brown riding boots are a wardrobe essential. Both practical and polished, this flat-heel interpretation will never go out of style. Pair with your favorite worn-in jeans or menswear trousers and a chunky knit sweater, or go for a 70s vibe with a calf-grazing printed dress.
5Back in Black
Plain black boots are great, but don’t shy away from an edgier take by way of buckles and straps. This motorcycle-inspired style masterfully balances tough with chic. Wear with an above-the-knee A-line or flared-bottom dress, or a miniskirt and a long-sleeve tee.
6Bad-Ass Boots
Channel your inner Katniss in these “Hunger Games”-worthy boots. The bungee lace-up back and olive green/brown color combo are sure to make any ensemble victorious. Stick with the theme in chocolate skinny jeans (tucked in), a tan leather jacket, and a nubby knit scarf, or ditch the District and wear with a dark brown wool shift dress.
7Giddy Up
These equestrian boots—complete with harnesses—get a modern twist, thanks to burnishing at the toe and heel. Steer clear of jodhpurs to guarantee that your look reads more city than stable. Instead, opt for a forest green dress, or keep things casual with dark blue jeans (tucked in) and a fitted flannel shirt.
8Buckle Up
Warning: You may want to live in these worn-in engineer boots. The classic buckled silhouette exudes cool-girl style, while the slouchy yet durable leather prevents an overly harsh aesthetic. Go full-on 90s with a plaid babydoll dress, or wear with grey jeans (tucked in) and a slubby baseball tee.
Frye Veronica Slouch Tall Boots with Extended Calf in Black, $328
9‘Stand Back’ in These Boots
These fold-over boots are slightly Stevie Nicks, yet they don’t look costume-y. (Skip the fringe shawl and peasant skirt to keep it that way.) The unslouchy style prevents an outright 80s reference. To ensure that things remain in this decade, pair with a leather pencil skirt and a fitted black cashmere sweater. Or, if you want to go all “Love Is a Battlefield,” wear with leggings and an oversize tunic in a bright color.
10Good as Gold
You can’t go wrong with a tall, super-shiny leather boot. The gold-tone buckle pops against this style’s chestnut brown backdrop, adding sophistication to an already chic silhouette. Wear with trousers in a menswear-inspired pattern (think houndstooth or herringbone) and a crisp button-down, or pair with a wool dress that hits below the knee for an even more office-appropriate look.
11Purple Perfection
Want to kick things up a notch? These high-heel platform boots in purple suede will undoubtedly put you in the spotlight. Temper their sex appeal with a knee-skimming skirt and tuxedo jacket, or go all out in a body-conscious mini-dress. If you really want to make a statement, opt for a short leather number.
Duo Bach Platform Knee-High Boots in Purple Suede (variety of calf widths available), $370
