By Victoria Rollison
(image courtesy of Coutorture.com)
The European catwalks are seeing a new shoe trend – the over-the-knee boots. Louis Vuitton, Hermes and Gucci all have designs that look gorgeous on tall and lean catwalk models. But do we dare to try them out in the real world? Here is RESCU’s low-down on this new trend.
Why they’re great
There is nothing more courageous than a fashion devotee who is willing to put all her outfit eggs in one basket – the eye-catching shoes. And there is absolutely nothing more eye-catching than over-the-knee boots. Louis Vuitton’s version are so high that they disappear under a mini skirt. And the Gucci Devendra Mid-Heel Boot have tassels the length of your leg.
These tall boots can make your legs look long, slender and sexy. Most brands have black leather styles, but there are also alternatives, such as the white Manolo Blahnik ‘Cava’ with leopard skin trim.
If you like the look of the over-the-knee boots, but can’t cope with the mega tall heel, there are also flat options by Chloé, Prada (riding boot) and Henry Beguelin.
There’s even the most comfortable shoe in the world available in an over-the-knee style – the Ugg Boot from the Australia Luxe Collective.
Why they aren’t so great
If you don’t share the vital statistics of a supermodel, it may be hard to find an over-the-knee boot that fits your shape. The tight leather styles need to be tight enough that they don’t look baggy – you don’t want to look like you are going trout fishing! But they shouldn’t be so tight that you can’t move!
If you are vertically challenged, like me, some of the longer styles will be too long. The boots look great if they reach half way up your thigh, but not so great if they reach your waist.
Another problem with this new style is that it invokes a vague image of a … you know … Pretty Woman type situation. If you are worried about the ‘call girl’ factor, couple the boots with an ultra conservative outfit that doesn’t show too much skin.
Want this look?
If you have your heart set on making a pair of glam over-the-knee boots look your own, you may need to start saving the pennies. The designer brands, such as Gucci retail for over $3,000. Prada’s version is slightly less heartbreaking at around $1,600. And you can pick up Dolce Vita styles for around $400. If you are tempted to pick up a bargain on eBay, do your research carefully and be sure of the size you are looking for. This is definitely not an item to buy blind.
And remember: unlike your trusty black ankle boots, you can’t get away with wearing over-the-knee boots every few days because they are too memorable a statement. But if you have a special occasion where you want to make an impression, they are the way to go.