As an editor who isn’t adjusted to winter dressing by any means, I have to admit that I panic at the sight of snowfall. Admittedly, I still haven’t bought any true winter boots given the lack of any severe winters in New York City. Most of the time, my chic (but dangerous) studded ballet flats will be fine, but given the amount of snow New Yorkers are expecting in the coming weeks and days, my on-trend footwear isn’t going to cut it.
Instead of combing TikTok for hours for video footage on how to buy the best snow boots, I went straight to the source. Yep, Arctic Circle influencers. After a deep dive through my hyper-niche algorithm, I reached out to Thea Selven, or @svalbardthea on TikTok. As her username suggests, Selven lives on Svalbard. Svalbard is a small, rugged island situated between Norway and the North Pole, making it one of the northernmost inhabited places in the world. Naturally, I knew her advice on getting the best snow boots was invaluable.
“In winter, we can have degrees below -30° Celsius! So it’s all about keeping warm and functional, not so much about what’s trendy and not,” Selven explained. It’s a lesson I can learn as a fickle fashion editor—sometimes, function outweighs fashion!
Below, read Selven’s hidden secrets for buying the best snow boots, and scroll on to discover a few chic pairs worth adding to your cart before more snow falls.
It’s prime boot-buying season. The temperature is chilly, the weather is unpredictable, and your rotation of outfits is heavy on rich textures. Even when perusing affordable shopping destinations like Zara and H&M, boots tend to fall on the more expensive side of the price spectrum, so any pair you bring home will be an investment meant to hold up for more than a single season and work with dressy and casual looks.
To me, the best boots fall into a few key categories, and I always try to make sure I have at least one of each in my rotation any given season. First, there are the practical everyday boots. Think equestrian-inspired or moto styles. These are sturdy, comfortable, and able to handle my daily commute on the subway. Next up, there are party boots. These are styles with a higher heel pitch and may come in unexpected colors or materials, such as horsehair or silver leather. Next, there are the cozies. This category includes Uggs, hiking boots, and rubber rain galoshes. Lastly, there are booties, which I consider the most versatile option of the bunch.
Once I have each of these categories squared away, I’m a little more open to my whims, perhaps picking up a trendy style for the season ahead or opting for a beloved silhouette in a fun new color or material. Ahead, I’ve collected 31 of my current favorites to help you kick-start your lineup of cute boots.
Navigating the endless collection of boots at Nordstrom can be very time consuming, but the worst part for me has always been the sizing. I’ve often found myself ordering the incorrect size or finding that two pairs of affordable boots I was excited about from the same exact brand fit me completely differently. All of this changed when I started my series If the Shoe Fits, in which I try out different shoes for style and size and report back on my sizing recommendations.
Boots are a very difficult accessory for me because of how much space they take up in my small New York apartment. Last winter, my floors were flooded with boots, and this season, I’m capping myself at only one or two new pairs. That means the styles I choose need to do it all and be comfortable. From classic black boots to the latest trends, I’ve rounded up the boots I saw at Nordstrom that I think are actually worth investing in. You’re welcome.
It’s boot season, and that means you have every right to scoop up the best boots to replenish your shoe closet. But if you typically tend to struggle to find narrow-calf boot brands for your smaller calves, trust us when we say you’ve come to the right place. There are tons of brands out there that make boots with smaller, narrower calves in mind, and a few brands always hit it out of the park. After doing tons of market research, looking into product reviews, and, of course, wearing these brands ourselves, we’ve been able to compile a list of five of the absolute best narrow-calf boot brands we just know you’ll love. Across the board, each of these five brands is known for making lots of styles specifically catered to narrow-calf people, or some of these styles simply feature a tighter fit. No gapping here! We know that investing in a good pair of boots might seem like a daunting task, but with a little help from us, your fashion besties, we think you’re going to love not only the brands on this list but also the narrow-calf boots we’ve found. Read on to see and shop our edit, along with the top customer review for each boot style, sizes and colors available, why we think they’re great options, and so much more.
Frye is a brand all fashion people know and love. Known for its craftsmanship and attention to details and trends, its shoes, and especially its boots, always tend to sell out quickly. This American-made company started back in 1863 and has since grown to be one of the best boot brands in the world, not only because of the beautiful and timeless styles but also because they cater to those with both narrow and wide calves. Frye boots tend to go anywhere from $300 to $500 depending on the style, but each boot is crafted with premium leather—so just keep that in mind!
This timeless style comes in multiple colorways and can be styled with anything from skirts to dresses, leggings, jeans, and more. Size Range: 5.5-11. Colors Available: Dark Brown, Saddle, Banana. Materials: Leather. Customer Review: “Beautiful leather boots! Even more comfortable than I had expected! These exceeded my expectations, and I cannot wait to have these as a staple in my wardrobe.”
Cowboy boots aren’t meant to be too tight around the calf area, and if you have narrow calves, you’ll love the way they perfectly rest against your legs. Size Range: 5.5-12. Colors Available: Dark Pewter, Black, Ivory, Brown, Black Tooled, Chocolate. Materials: Leather. Customer Review: “Gorgeous and fit well! Very well made!”
The button details on these boots are simply perfect, and with an easy pull-on nature, these will easily come off and on for those with narrow calves. Size Range: 5.5-12. Colors Available: Whiskey, Mahogany, Cognac, Black, Grey, Redwood. Materials: Leather. Customer Review: “I’ve been wanting these for years and finally got them! They are beautiful and comfortable- perfect if you have narrow feet and thin legs. I love them!!”
There’s nothing we don’t love about these tall boots. And while we’re fans of the caramel hue, they also offer a lot of other color options for every aesthetic. Size Range: 5.5-12. Colors Available: Caramel, Black, Black Brush Off, Redwood, Antiqued Black, Dark Brown. Materials: Leather. Customer Review: “I have slender legs and these boots fit me perfectly – thank you for making great quality leather products.”
If you’ve been to a luxury shopping mall or scrolled through your favorite influencers’ social media feeds, chances are you’re already familiar with designer Stuart Weitzman. This brand began in 1986 and is known for its sexy styles, stunning silhouettes, and sturdy designs. Additionally, its boots are available in multiple width options, typically including narrow, medium, wide, and even extra wide. With a higher price point (from around $600 to $2000), these shoes are definitely an investment, but we think they’re well worth the splurge.
Stretch booties are the perfect style for those with narrow calves because they will hug your feet in all the right places! We’re obsessed with this specific pair from Stuart Weitzman. Size Range: 3.5-13. Colors Available: Black, Taupe. Materials: Leather. Customer Review: “These booties are made with high-quality leather. They are stretchy around the ankle which I love because of this you can wear them with a dress or skirt. My favorite thing to wear these booties with is boot-cut jeans. It gives them an elevated look.”
For a classic black bootie, you can’t go wrong with this simple style that will remain in your closet for years to come. Size Range: 3.5-13. Colors Available: Black. Materials: Leather. Customer Review: “Love these Chelsea boots. Perfect height. Beautifully made and super comfortable. Very happy with my purchase.”
If you’re on the hunt for an over-the-knee boot that fits your narrow calves, look no further than this beautiful option our editors are in love with. Size Range: 3.5-13. Colors Available: Black. Materials: Leather. Customer Review: “Oh my goodness, I feel so confident and beautiful wearing these. Elevates every single outfit and the best-fitting boots in the world.”
Whether you’re into a grungy look or just want a style that gives a bit more edge, go for this fun style that’s available for people with narrow feet. Size Range: 3.5-13. Colors Available: Black, Oat. Materials: Leather. Customer Review: “I was introduced to Stuart Weitzman shoes in the mid 1980’s. They are the best shoes I have ever seen and worn.”
Founded in 1928, Cole Haan has been a pioneer in the shoe industry for both men and women. With luxe designs and special attention to leather, we love looking to this brand for narrow calf boot options. From traditional riding boots to ankle booties and even combat boots, there’s a style available for anyone. The typical price range is $90 to $250.
A classic style that you can wear for years to come, the Noelle Boot from Cole Haan deserves a spot in your shoe closet. Size Range: 5-11. Colors Available: Black, Chestnut, Tornado. Materials: Leather. Customer Review: “Excellent quality and good fit. I just love them!”
With a slightly square toe and a narrower upper portion, this boot will look amazing with an assortment of outfits. Size Range: 5-11. Colors Available: Black, Irish Coffee. Materials: Leather. Customer Review: “Very flattering booties. I have long, narrow feet and these worked well.”
Riding boots are such a versatile style that can go with all sorts of aesthetics, and we love how this boot is both timeless and trendy at the same time. Size Range: 5-11. Colors Available: Black, Black Woven, British Tan. Materials: Leather. Customer Review: “These boots are beyond expectations!!! The fit, the leather, and the quality are exceptional.”
Combat boots are another boot style everyone knows and loves, and these specific ones are our current faves for those with narrow calves. Size Range: 5-11. Colors Available: Black. Materials: Leather. Customer Review: “Great boots! Comfortable and high quality.”
Established in 2005, Marc Fisher is a shoe brand fashion people need to know about. With fair prices and a wide assortment of sizes to choose from, those with narrow calves will find that there are plenty of boot styles. We especially love this narrow-calf boot brand because of the classic silhouettes that will never go out of style. As far as pricing goes for boots, most are in the $170-to-$300 range.
Our fashion editors have been loving the biker boot trend, and these nice-fitting boots from Marc Fisher just might be some of the best the market has to offer. Size Range: 5-11. Colors Available: Dark Natural, Black. Materials: Leather. Customer Review: “Great boots. Nice fit. True to size.”
We love a slouchy boot moment, and these comfortable ones from Marc Fisher would look stunning any time of year. Size Range: 5-11. Colors Available: Dark Red, Taupe, Black Leather, Black Suede. Materials: Leather. Customer Review: “Comfortable.”
The block heel is what initially sold us on these knee-highs, but honestly, the entire boot is pure perfection. And if you have narrow calves, you won’t be dealing with any gapping or feel like you’re swimming in them. Size Range: 5-11. Colors Available: Black, Medium Natural 102, Medium Natural 103, Medium Natural 104. Materials: Leather. Customer Review: “Super soft and comfortable boots! Fit perfectly and the heel height makes me feel I can wear it all day with no pressure. Definitely, it will be my first choice of this winter in my closet.”
We’re willing to bet that everyone (and we mean everyone) is familiar with Steve Madden. With a revolutionary take on shoes, this is a brand that’s approachable and offered at various price points (typically $100 to $250). Getting its start in 1990, Steve Madden has since completely taken off and is now one of the leading brands in the shoe industry—with some of our absolute favorite narrow boots to shop!
Coastal cowboys will adore these cowboy boots from Steve Madden. We’ve personally worn these and can attest that they’re not too wide. Size Range: 5.5-11. Colors Available: Black Mult, Chsnut Sue, Bone Leather, Green Leather. Materials: Leather. Customer Review: “The most comfortable boots ever. The inside feels so amazingly soft. Very sexy and elegant, especially the bone color. I’m purchasing another color for sure. Maybe the black or maybe the brown, I’m not sure. I love them all.”
A classic leather knee-high boot is a necessity for any fashion person. This style from Steve Madden features a pointed toe and slim upper portion that’s made with narrow calves in mind. Size Range: 5.5-11. Colors Available: Black Leather, Black Crocodile, Oatmeal Suede. Materials: Leather. Customer Review: “These are the perfect boot. I have never been a fan of kitten heel until this pair. So comfortable. For dressing up or down. I love to pair them with a skirt & tights! You won’t regret these!”
A platform boot with moto edge? Sign us up. If you have narrow calves, you’ll especially love the way these rest. Size Range: 5-11. Colors Available: Black. Materials: Faux Leather. Customer Review: “I have scrawny legs and ankles. 5’2. They hit right below my knee and don’t slouch. No gap and wasn’t tight. Very comfortable too.”
This mid-calf boot is perfect for those who have more of a narrow footing and calf, and we simply adore the colors on offer—especially the tan suede option! Size Range: 5.5-11. Colors Available: Tan Suede, Black Leather, Chestnut Suede, Bone Leather. Materials: Leather. Customer Review: “Love them! Comfortable and stylish.”
As I’ve tried explaining to my husband time and time again—to no avail, of course—you can never have enough pairs of black boots. This is especially true for me, who lives almost exclusively in the shoe style (in one form or another) for most of fall and winter. It’s also true for any girl living in NYC, where the name of the game is functionality. You need your knee-high boots, your ankle boots, your snow boots, and everything in between. Then if you’re a stickler for details like me, you’ll find that there are subcategories of the best boots that must be fulfilled as well. For example, the casual boot that won’t get ruined in the rain, the plain pair, and the statement style. Or the heeled boot that looks good with trousers, one for long jeans, one for short jeans, boots for dresses and skirts, etc. I could go on and on, but instead, I’ll cut to the chase.
Despite owning more pairs of black boots than anyone should ever admit to in multiple closets and storage situations across America, I’ll always be compelled to buy more of my favorite shoe category—but only if they’re good enough. With that in mind, I figured I’d round up the styles I’m eyeing at the moment, plus share with you some pairs I’m already wearing on the regular. Naturally, that total came out to 26 pairs. To get started (and shopping), just keep scrolling.
My favorite four-letter S word is back at the top of my mind: sale. Last week, Nordstrom’s jaw-dropping limited-time sale dropped just in time for the holiday outfit shopping (or, if you’re like a procrastinator like me, last-minute gift shopping). While I’m usually the first to jump on a good deal, especially when it comes to brands like Madewell, Topshop, and Steve Madden, patience is of the essence. Now that there’s only one day left in the sale and prices are fully slashed, it’s time to take advantage of all the chic, cute finds Nordstrom has to offer.
Below, shop the best can’t-miss days on the last day of the Nordstrom limited-time sale, from stunning coats to It girl-approved sunglasses.
When I think about the best boots in my wardrobe, a solid pair of waterproof boots ranks high on my list. It’s this specific shoe silhouette that makes getting through unpredictable weather that much easier. After all, the thought of having to navigate through rain or snow with footwear that’s not weather-resistant doesn’t seem that desirable. So, with that in mind, I thought I’d do a deep dive through one of my favorite stores, Nordstrom, to uncover the absolute best waterproof boots out there if you’re interested in adding a new pair to your arsenal.
To uncover the “best” styles, I scrolled through the review sections of a range of silhouettes and pulled out the boots that have positive reviews, with over four stars out of five. Keep scrolling to check out waterproof boots in a variety of styles that could be worth noting.
I’ll admit it: When it comes to getting dressed in the morning, I can be a little bit lazy. I know I’m a fashion editor, but it happens to the best of us, right? Well, I know how to play the game, and one trick I always used throughout college was to wear a cool pair of tall boots with a comfortable outfit that instantly made me look more polished and put-together—even if it was just an average sweater with skinny jeans.
Much to my ease, over-the-knee styles are coming back in full force with options all over the market. As the weather continues to cool, I will happily continue to sport tall boots with almost every one of my outfits. There are many pairs on the market, but I went ahead and rounded up some of the best, from classic black leather to trendier versions with prints and colors. Either way, scroll ahead to find your new favorite boots.
No single pair of boots has taken up residence in the brains of practically every person in fashion in recent years quite as significantly as Miu Miu’s moto boots, which the brand debuted in its F/W 22 collection. Mixed among penny loafers and the now-viral satin Mary Jane flats were a variety of heavy-duty, distressed leather boots in brown and black with a round toe, an ankle strap secured by large metal fasteners, and buckles up the leg that brought the thick material together on either side. Similar to the other footwear they were accompanied by on the runway, attendees and digital onlookers alike were instantly smitten.
As a result, over the past year, many brands have hopped aboard the moto-boot train, with options arriving from Steve Madden, Mango, and more. But none has gotten me quite as excited as the $99 pair I just discovered on Nordstrom.com. Ankle height, buckled to perfection, and featuring just the right amount of heel, the boots, courtesy of Nordstrom’s in-house, editor-favorite label Open Edit, check off every box. And the price isn’t half bad either. (I’m obviously kidding—the price is the *best* part.) Scroll down to shop Open Edit’s just-in moto boots ahead of fall’s official arrival.
Just like clockwork, each September (usually around NYFW), the new It Ugg boot emerges, and a swift sell-out comes soon after. This time around, it’s Lori Harvey who’s giving the boots their celebrity debut. The name of this year’s soon-to-be-viral style is the Ugg Classic Dipper Platform Boots, and they’re right in step with one of fall 2023’s biggest boot trends.
Like last year’s It Ugg boots, the Classic Ultra Mini Platform Boots, the Classic Dippers feature a platform sole, but it’s the sock-like shaft that makes it purely “2023”. This isn’t the first season we’ve seen the sock boot trend, but the interesting thing about it this time around is that all of the iterations on the runway were off-kilter takes on the sock boot, from Bottega Veneta’s leather ones that were crafted to look like crew socks to Chanel’s second-skin knee-high leather pair. Ugg’s rendition is right in step with that distinction.
Keep scrolling to see how Lori Harvey styled the Ugg Classic Dipper Platform Boots and shop them before the wait lists start forming.
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