Can You Wear Boots To A Wedding?

wear boots to a wedding

One of the hardest parts of getting ready for a wedding is choosing your outfit. Knowing what to wear so that you’ll accommodate the dress code, look great and feel comfortable all evening is no small feat.

Just as difficult as choosing the right dress, skirt and top or jumpsuit is settling on the right footwear. Do you have to wear a classic pair of heels or can you wear boots to a wedding?

If you’re a lover of boots, you’ll be happy to know that dressy boots are always a great option for ceremony and reception alike. The key to make them work, however, is pairing them with appropriate attire.

If you want to learn the dos and don’ts of wearing boots to a wedding, our guide will help you to choose an ensemble that will have you looking your very best.

Can You Wear Boots To A Wedding?

Boots are an acceptable type of footwear for a wedding as long as they are fancy enough to meet the dress code and match the weather. Wearing knee-high boots in August, for instance, will not only be hot and uncomfortable, but may not suit the lighter-weight fabrics typically worn in the summer.

Late fall, winter and early spring are more conducive to wearing boots than the warmer times of the year when you’re more apt to wear breezy sundresses better suited to heels or sandals. Boots work well with darker and jewel tones as well as the heavier, thicker materials worn in the colder months.

Remember to avoid super chunky heels, however. Keeping the heel on the slimmer side will dress up your look.

wear boots to a wedding ankle boots

What to wear with ankle boots to a wedding

While it’s a fashion no-no to wear ankle boots with evening gowns and cocktail dresses, that doesn’t mean they won’t work with other styles. 

A long skirt or dress looks good with ankle boots, but they are less flattering with midi length hemlines. Why? Booties cut your leg off at the ankle which can make them appear short if you wear a midi skirt. If you prefer an in-between length, opt for black ankle boots with black tights to make your legs appear longer.

You can also pull off ankle boots with above-the-knee hemlines. A shorter dress will lengthen your leg line and make you appear taller and slimmer. While ankle boots are super cute with short skirts, just make sure you don’t go too short. Mini skirts are never appropriate for a wedding.

Ankle boots also look great with full-length jumpsuits and trousers and are often a better choice than a pair of pumps if you’ll be on your feet a lot.

wear boots to a wedding tall boots

What to wear with tall boots to a wedding

Tall boots should be a staple in any woman’s fall and winter wardrobe. Not only do they work with slim trousers, but they look great with maxi, midi and knee-length skirts. 

While not appropriate with an evening gown or cocktail dress, if you’re attending a semi-formal, dressy casual or casual wedding, tall boots can be a stylish choice. In fact, there are many appropriate dresses and skirts you can wear that look amazing with tall boots.

Jumpsuits cropped below the knee and slim leg trousers also look great with knee-high boots, but we don’t suggest wearing them if you plan to wear a full-length jumpsuit or trousers that aren’t super slim. A tall boot can interfere with the drape of your trousers and ruin your leg line.

wear boots to a wedding what to wear with over the knee boots

What to wear with over-the-knee boots to a wedding

While over-the-knee boots can be seen as overtly sexy, they can still be appropriate for a wedding as long as you pair them with the right type of outfit. Obviously wearing them with a mini skirt is out of the question — after all minis are a major faux pas for a wedding.

However, wearing them with a maxi or midi skirt is completely fine. Not only is it a stylish look, but wearing extra tall boots can help you stay warm for fall and winter ceremonies.

Can You Wear Boots To A Black Tie Or Formal Wedding?

Traditionally, women attending a black tie wedding were expected to wear an evening gown while the standard garb for a formal wedding was an evening gown or a cocktail dress. Today, however, female guests who don’t like wearing dresses also have the option of wearing a fancy jumpsuit or a women’s tuxedo.

While boots would certainly look out of place with an evening gown or cocktail dress, they are a possibility with a jumpsuit, tuxedo or, the best of both worlds, a tuxedo jumpsuit

wear boots to a wedding black tie or formal wedding with jumsuit or tuxedo

What to wear with a jumpsuit or tuxedo

The key to choosing an ankle boot appropriate for a formal wedding is by keeping the heels slender. The slimmer the heel, the more sophisticated you will look. Here are some great options to put your best foot forward at black tie or formal weddings.

wear boots to a wedding black tie or formal wedding traditional bootie

Traditional bootie

If you want to look glamorous but know you’ll be on your feet a lot, kitten-heeled, suede booties are a great choice. The pointed toe elongates the leg, while the low heel will keep your feet feeling good. This style would work equally well with a jumpsuit or a tux.

wear boots to a wedding black tie or formal wedding modern bootie

Modern bootie

If you prefer simple yet sleek boots with a pop of color, then a burgundy bootie is perfect for you. While black tie and formal weddings aren’t conducive to wild footwear, these short burgundy leather boots will give you the color you crave in a sophisticated way.

wear boots to a wedding black tie or formal wedding sparkly bootie

Sparkly bootie

If you plan to wear a solid color jumpsuit or tuxedo pants, why not wear some boots with a bit of bling? While we don’t recommend wearing stilettos if you’ll be dancing the night away, this mid-heel boot will give you some extra height, but it’s not so high that your feet will be killing you.

wear boots to a wedding black tie or formal wedding feminine bootie

Feminine bootie

If your outfit needs a feminine touch, then look for special details like lace or velvet. These lace booties are pretty but sophisticated making them the perfect choice for a formal affair. If you will be standing or dancing a lot, you may want to find a lower-heeled version.

wear boots to a wedding black tie or formal wedding unique bootie

Unique bootie

Why wear what everyone else is wearing? Looking for classy but unique ankle boots will not only add visual interest to your outfit, but will help you stand out from the crowd. These gold peep-toe booties will definitely give your outfit a touch of pizazz. 

Are Boots Appropriate For A Semi-Formal Wedding?

Semi-formal, one of the most popular wedding dress codes, actually gives you a lot of different wardrobe choices. Female guests are typically expected to wear a cocktail dress, a garden party dress, a fancy skirt and top or a jumpsuit. 

While boots don’t usually work with a cocktail dress, you may be able to wear them with a garden party dress or a skirt depending on the time of year and the colors you choose.

wear boots to a wedding semi formal wedding dress or skirt

What boots to wear with a semi-formal dress or skirt

Tall boots look amazing with any dress or skirt that is knee-length or longer, but look especially fetching with an asymmetric skirt. Ankle boots, a slightly cooler option, are fetching with maxi lengths as well as above-the-knee hemlines.

wear boots to a wedding semi formal wedding traditional

Traditional 

Traditional knee-high boots get a bit of a makeover with a fashionable slouchy look and 3.5-inch heels.  This classic boot will go with virtually any fall or winter dress or skirt that hits at the knee or lower. These boots are perfect for giving you extra height, but are better suited to sitting than being on your feet a lot.

wear boots to a wedding semi formal wedding modern

Modern 

Over-the-knee boots in a playful yet subtle metallic is a great way to add some drama to a basic pencil skirt or sheath dress. It’s also a great option for a maxi skirt or dress with a side slit. Not only will you get to show off your boots, they’ll keep your legs warm for fall and winter nuptials.

wear boots to a wedding semi formal wedding sparkly

Sparkly

These velvet and sequin ankle boots are the perfect accompaniment to a semi-formal skirt or dress of any length because they sit low on the ankle. They might even work with the right cocktail dress. 

wear boots to a wedding semi formal wedding feminine

Feminine

If you’re looking for boots you can wear in the summer, this is the pair for you. Dubbed ‘shooties,’ they offer the best of both worlds: a boot-like structure with a shoe-like peep toe. These shooties are versatile enough to be worn with practically any style of dress or skirt.

wear boots to a wedding semi formal wedding unique

Unique

If the boots are fabulous enough, why not build your outfit around them? Slouchy snake print ankle boots would look terrific with a plain black or burgundy maxi skirt or dress. Or, don a black knee-length skirt and black tights with a silvery top to pick up the metallic tones in the boots.

wear boots to a wedding what to wear with a jumpsuit

What to wear with a jumpsuit

A jumpsuit is a marvelous option for ladies who aren’t keen on wearing a dress or a skirt to a semi-formal wedding. While a jumpsuit looks best with high heeled sandals in the summer, you can definitely rock ankle boots in the fall and winter. Here are some great choices:

wear boots to a wedding with a jumpsuit traditional ankle boots

Traditional ankle boots

A basic black suede boot is a classic that will go with everything in your wardrobe. While these ankle boots will go with any color, we suggest a jewel-hued jumpsuit for a nice contrast.

wear boots to a wedding with a jumpsuit modern ankle boots

Modern ankle boots

An elongated pointed toe and bright cobalt color make these modern ankle boots a great statement piece. Pair them with a neutral colored jumpsuit for a pop of visual interest.

wear boots to a wedding with a jumpsuit sparkly ankle boots

Sparkly ankle boots

Another great option for warmer weather weddings is this semi-translucent ankle boot embellished with rhinestones. This would look well with a black, gray or navy jumpsuit.

wear boots to a wedding with a jumpsuit feminine ankle boots

Feminine ankle boots

Faux suede and a ruffled top make these boots ultra-feminine. These would look great with slim or slightly cropped trousers so the pretty ruffle feature can be shown to advantage.

wear boots to a wedding with a jumpsuit unique ankle boots

Unique ankle boots

A solid-color jumpsuit can get a little pick-me-up from leopard print ankle boots or any patterned booties. Make sure to choose a pattern that’s elegant rather than gaudy.

Can you wear boots to a dressy casual wedding?

Dressy casual is the second most popular wedding dress code and is often a staple at early afternoon weddings. Women can choose to wear a garden party dress, a skirt and top ensemble or a semi-fancy jumpsuit. Wide leg trousers or treggings are also an option.

wear boots to a dressy casual wedding with dress or skirt

What to wear with a dress or skirt

Knee-high boots with a below-the-knee pencil skirt or sheath dress offer a sleek look that is both comfortable and wedding appropriate. Tall boots also look good with knee-length, midi and maxi length skirts whether they are slim, a-line or full.

wear boots to a dressy casual wedding with dress or skirt traditional

Traditional 

A tan knee-high boot will go with almost any wedding ensemble from long dresses and skirts to midi and knee-length hemlines. The best thing about these boots, however, is the ability to customize them with a straight or slouchy look.

wear boots to a dressy casual wedding with dress or skirt modern

Modern 

These croc-embossed boots boast a snip toe and square spool heel yet, because of its neutral color will complement any shade of skirt or dress you choose.

wear boots to a dressy casual wedding with dress or skirt colorful

Colorful

If you’re a fan of designer footwear then you’ll adore these beautiful burgundy boots from Manolo Blahnik. If you have boots like this, make them the star of your ensemble by opting for a navy, gray or black dress.

wear boots to a dressy casual wedding with dress or skirt feminine

Feminine

Despite the rounded toe and thicker heel, these ankle boots are ultra-ladylike thanks to the suede texture and cutout details. These booties would look great with above-the-knee, knee-length and maxi skirts and dresses.

wear boots to a dressy casual wedding with dress or skirt unique

Unique

If you’re tired of the same basic black or brown boot, this pair might be your cup of tea. The mock snake design is perfect for adding some panache to your outfit. Pair with a light neutral colored skirt and a dark top or a solid color dress.

wear boots to a wedding with a jumpsuit or trousers

What to wear with a jumpsuit or trousers

Whether you opt for a jumpsuit or trousers with a pretty top, ankle boots are the best way to complete your outfit in the fall and winter. Here are some chic options for every type of personal style.

wear boots to a wedding with a jumpsuit or trousers traditional

Traditional 

If you prefer a basic black ankle boot, this one is a classic. It will go with virtually any jumpsuit or trousers, making it easy to both shop for and dress in.

wear boots to a wedding with a jumpsuit or trousers modern

Modern 

Sleek wedge-heeled ankle boots offer a modern yet sophisticated look and are shown off to advantage with wider leg trousers.

wear boots to a wedding with a jumpsuit or trousers colorful

Colorful

It doesn’t get more colorful than these beaded booties. While you couldn’t pull off such vibrant boots with a patterned or bright jumpsuit, paired with black or dark green, these booties would look fabulously vibrant.

wear boots to a wedding with a jumpsuit or trousers feminine

Feminine 

These designer boots from Gianvito Rossi are the epitonium of feminine elegance thanks to the kitten heel and blush color. Wear them with a dark jumpsuit to make them stand out even more.

Unique

While these boots from Kate Spade do come with a chunky heel, the glittering fabric counterbalances that for a sparkly and elegant boot that can be worn with any shade of jumpsuit.

Are Boots Appropriate For A Casual Wedding?

Casual weddings may not be as popular as dressy casual or semi-formal, but are becoming more common than in years past. Female guests are expected to wear a casual dress, a maxi dress, a skirt and top, a jumpsuit or nice trousers with a blouse.

wear boots to a wedding with a dress or skirt

What to wear with a dress or skirt 

A peasant skirt looks adorable with knee high boots for a casual wedding. You can also wear a casual maxi, midi or knee-length dress.

Here are some great looks to consider:

wear boots to a wedding with a dress or skirt traditional boots

Traditional boots

Neutral-hued, knee-high boots with a full knee-length skirt is pretty yet practical for the cooler weather. These boots would work with any style of skirt that falls to the knee or lower.

wear boots to a wedding with a dress or skirt modern boots

Modern boots

Black wedge-heel boots paired with a skirt in dark colors or a heavier fabric offers a flattering silhouette. A wedge heel is a good option if you know you’ll be on your feet a lot throughout the reception. Wear it with a below-the-knee or maxi-length skirt.

wear boots to a wedding with a dress or skirt colorful boots

Colorful boots

If you’ve chosen a neutral skirt or dress, why not get playful with your footwear? Choosing a bold color will add visual interest to your outfit. These red high-heeled boots feature an almond toe which is elongating but less constrictive than a pointy toe. Wear it with any length of skirt from knee-length to maxi.

wear boots to a wedding with a dress or skirt feminine boots

Feminine boots

With lace flower details and a pointed toe, these boots are equal parts elegant and feminine. Wear with a maxi dress or skirt or with an above-the-knee hemline to keep yourself looking long and lean.

wear boots to a wedding with a dress or skirt unique boots

Unique boots

Despite the chunky heel, these knee-length boots can still work for a wedding, especially if you prefer not to follow the crowd. These scale-print boots will not only go with most dresses, but you’re sure to get a lot of compliments.

wear boots to a wedding what to wear with a jumpsuit or trousers

What to wear with a jumpsuit or trousers

Wearing trousers or a jumpsuit to a casual wedding ensures you’ll be up for whatever activities the bridal couple has planned. Completing your look is as simple as slipping on a pair of ankle boots that suit your personal style. Here are five great examples to consider:

wear boots to a wedding what to wear with a jumpsuit or trousers traditional ankle boots

Traditional ankle boots

Classic ankle boots like these will work with any style of jumpsuit or trousers from slim to wide leg.

wear boots to a wedding what to wear with a jumpsuit or trousers modern ankle boots

Modern ankle boots

A faux suede, wedge ankle boot in navy is made special by the tie knot feature on the side. While these boots would work with any jumpsuit or trousers, they will be shown off to advantage with a slim fit or slightly cropped pants.

wear boots to a wedding what to wear with a jumpsuit or trousers colorful ankle boots

Colorful ankle boots

With a slouchy silhouette and pointed-toe, these bright burgundy boots would look great worn over slim or cropped trousers. And, with a kitten heel, you’ll be able to dance the night away.

wear boots to a wedding what to wear with a jumpsuit or trousers feminine ankle boots

Feminine ankle boots

A slender heel and side bow make these ankle boots elegant and ladylike. Wear them with ankle length trousers. They’d also be gorgeous with a maxi dress or an above-the-knee skirt.

wear boots to a wedding what to wear with a jumpsuit or trousers unique ankle boots

Unique ankle boots

Featuring a lattice cutout design, these ankle boots are the perfect choice for warm weather nuptials and will look great with skirts and trousers alike.

FAQ: The Lowdown On Boots

Still have questions about what you can and cannot wear to a wedding? Our FAQ section will  answer all of the most common queries so you can step forward with confidence.

Do boots count as accessories?

In a way, yes. While boots aren’t like jewelry, they do impact the overall esthetic of your outfit. If you’re wearing plain boots with a plain dress, you’ll definitely need to accessorize your outfit for some visual interest.

If, however, your boots are heavily embellished with zippers, studs, sequins or straps, it’s wise to keep the rest of your accessories minimal. A pair of low-key earrings or a bracelet would be all you’d need to complete your ensemble. 

Can I wear patterned tights with boots to a wedding?

While basic black tights and black ankle boots might seem boring, it is a classic, not to mention flattering look for a wedding. While patterned tights are not completely out of the question, be sure to keep the pattern small and simple like these sheer polka dot tights.

Remember, you don’t want to steal attention from the bride by wearing something super attention-grabbing, so keep your tights conservative.

How can I stay warm at a winter wedding?

Wearing tall boots and tights with your skirt or dress will definitely help keep your legs warm for frosty nuptials. To keep your toes extra toasty, slip on a pair of socks as well. You can wear regular socks with tall boots or, if you opt for ankle boots, add a pair of no-show socks.

Not only will this keep your feet warm, it also aids in the protection of your tights. Wearing socks over them can prevent holes from forming in the toe area.

What shoes should you not wear to a wedding?

Your dress is not the only thing that matters when you’re a wedding guest. You also need to have a pretty yet proper pair of shoes or boots to wear. To make sure you look your best, you should avoid wearing white shoes, super high heels (your feet will be killing you), granny boots, sneakers, sporty sandals and flip flops.

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