Best thigh-high boots and how to wear them in 2023

Publish date: 2024-05-27

Thigh-high boots are an undisputable wardrobe classic. As spring rears its head, make no mistake - your footwear collection will be incomplete without them.

From Julia Roberts' iconic black patent boots in Pretty Woman, to Michelle Obama's insanely dazzling Balenciaga pair – it's clear that everyone needs a pair of thigh-high boots in their footwear arsenal.

There's something about a boot that finishes above the knee that exudes a certain sultriness, but the style didn't always epitomise the height of desirability.

Rather, the origin of thigh-high boots dates back to the 15th century when they were largely worn by men. Heralded for their functionality, the style was worn during military and equestrian endeavours.

While your current schedule likely lacks these sorts of hands-on activities (or perhaps you're gallivanting on horseback 24/7? We'd hate to presume), modern thigh-high boots have a certain enduring appeal, and are unrivalled in their versatility.

Hello! Fashion shares the best ways to style thigh-high boots this season:

With a statement cape

With a staple blazer

READ: The 8 best dress and boot combinations to try

With a graphic t-shirt

Not convinced? Allow Rihanna to persuade you. The 34-year-old stepped out just a few months after giving birth to her baby boy in a look that is set to redefine the face of postpartum dressing. The Wild Thoughts singer opted for a super slouchy pair by Y/Project which she teamed with a raw-edge denim skirt, a white graphic t-shirt and an olive-green snake print handbag.

With a sheer lace dress

Jodie Turner-Smith, on the other hand, donned white pointed lace-ups as part of a far more dressy look at the Venice Film Festival. The actress stepped out at the White Noise photocall in a translucent lace slip, full-length pastel latex gloves, and over-the-knee boots which radiated a certain Victoriana vibe.