shoes to wear with gray pants

HOW TO WEAR ANKLE BOOTS WHEN YOU’RE OVER 40

Age is just a number, and that definitely applies to style! Ankle boots are a wardrobe staple, but you might wonder if there are tricks to rocking them over 40. The answer is a resounding no! In fact, ankle boots can be incredibly flattering and versatile for any woman. Whether you’re looking for edgy, polished, or comfy-casual looks, there’s a perfect pair (or two!) out there for you. Let’s dive into some tips and outfit ideas to show off your unique style with confidence.

TYPES OF ANKLE BOOTS

Ankle boots come in a wide variety of styles, so you’re sure to find a few (or more!) that suit your taste and wardrobe. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most popular types:

Chelsea Boots: These classic pull-on boots feature elasticated side panels for a snug fit. They come in various heel heights, from flat to platform, and can be dressed up or down.

Combat Boots: Channel your inner rockstar with a pair of combat boots. These boots typically have a lace-up closure, a thick sole, and a round toe. They add a touch of edge to any outfit. 

Ankle Booties: Ankle booties are a more delicate take on the ankle boot. They often have a shorter shaft, a pointed toe, and a stiletto or kitten heel. They’re perfect for dressing up a skirt or dress. 

Chunky Heel Boots: These boots offer both style and comfort with their thick, block heel. They’re perfect for all-day wear and can be dressed up or down.

Loafers Boots:  Loafers get a stylish upgrade in boot form. These boots typically have a lace-up closure and a moc-toe design. They add a touch of polish to any outfit. 

Sock Boots:  Sock boots hug your legs like a sock, creating a sleek and streamlined silhouette. They come in various heel heights and materials, making them a versatile option. 

Western Boots:  For a touch of country flair, consider a pair of western boots. These boots typically have a pointed toe, a slanted heel, and intricate stitching. 

STYLING TIPS FOR ANKLE BOOTS

TRY SOME CROPPED PANTS WITH A NICE BLOUSE

Cropped pants and a blouse are a match made in outfit heaven, and ankle boots are the perfect partner to complete this look. The cropped pants will showcase your boots, adding a touch of polish and elongating your legs.  For a more relaxed vibe, choose a flowy blouse that drapes over the waistband of your pants. If you’re aiming for a polished look, try a tucked-in blouse with a fitted silhouette. Don’t be afraid to experiment with textures and patterns! A silky blouse adds instant sophistication, while a patterned blouse can inject some personality into your outfit. No matter your style, this combination creates a flattering and versatile look that works for work, weekend errands, or a night out.

CUFF YOUR JEANS TO SHOW OFF YOUR BOOTS

Cuffing your jeans is a stylish technique to showcase your favorite ankle boots, adding a touch of effortless coolness to your outfit. To achieve the perfect cuff, consider your jean style – straight-leg and boyfriend jeans work well for cuffing, while skinny jeans can be cuffed with a smaller, single fold to avoid bulkiness. Aim to reveal a sliver of ankle, about an inch or two, for a balanced silhouette. Choose between a double cuff for a polished look or a single cuff for a more relaxed vibe, and experiment with different cuff widths and heights to find what suits you best. Ironing the bottom hem beforehand ensures a clean, crisp fold that stays put all day. Ultimately, cuffing is a personal style choice that allows you to play with proportions and highlight your footwear in a way that feels uniquely you.

PAIR A PATTERNED T-SHIRT DRESS WITH SOLID ANKLE BOOTS

Ankle boots can make a simple outfit look more interesting. A T-shirt dress is comfy and cute, and to make it even better, you can add some extra stuff. You can wear heeled ankle boots to make it more girly or flat ones like Doc Martens to make it cooler. Also, add some nice jewelry like a necklace and bracelet. If you wear a belt, it can make you look more stylish and show off your body shape. Plus, wearing ankle boots with heels can make your legs look longer!

SPICE UP A SWEATER DRESS WITH COMBAT BOOTS

Adding combat boots to your cozy sweater dress can make your outfit look really cool! Here’s how to do it:

First, make sure your dress isn’t too loose. Wear a tight top underneath, like a turtleneck or a fitted T-shirt. This will balance out the baggy look of the dress. Next, add some edgy accessories. A leather jacket, chunky scarf, or a bold belt can give your outfit some attitude. A crossbody bag with a rock-and-roll style will complete the look. Don’t forget about tights! They can totally change the vibe of your outfit. Try opaque tights for a warmer feel, fishnet tights for a grungy look, or sheer tights if you want to show some skin while still keeping the edgy vibe. Lastly, have fun with your jewelry. Combat boots can handle bold pieces, so layer on some chunky necklaces or statement earrings to complete your cool look!

WEAR WIDE-LEGGED TROUSERS AND HEELED BOOTS

Wearing wide-legged pants with heeled boots is a great fashion choice that makes you look awesome without much effort. Here’s how to do it: First, pick boots with heels that make your legs look longer, like stilettos or block heels. It’s up to you if you want to get your pants tailored to fit neatly over your boots. For tops, you can try tucking in a tight shirt for a neat look, leaving a loose blouse out for a relaxed style, or wearing a short top with a jacket for a trendy vibe. Keep your accessories simple and stylish, like a nice belt to show off your waist and some pretty jewelry to finish off your outfit. Follow these tips, and you’ll rock this cool and flattering outfit!

STAY WARM IN A TRENCH COAT AND CHUNKY BOOTS

A trench coat and chunky boots are a powerful combo for conquering chilly weather in style. The trench coat, with its wind-resistant fabric and optional belt, acts as your first line of defense. Layer chunky knits or turtlenecks underneath for added warmth. Don’t be afraid to play with textures! A chunky cable-knit sweater adds a cozy element, while a sleek cashmere turtleneck provides a more polished look. Chunky boots provide both insulation and traction, keeping your feet toasty and secure on slippery surfaces. For extra warmth, consider adding thermal socks or layering thinner socks underneath. With this winning combination, you’ll be ready to embrace the crisp air while looking effortlessly stylish.

WEAR ANKLE BOOTS WITH A BLAZER AND MINI SKIRT

Ankle boots, a blazer, and a mini skirt are a fashion trifecta, creating a look that’s both effortlessly chic and undeniably cool. It’s all about balance! Pair a slightly shorter mini skirt with a blazer that hits at the mid-thigh or goes longer for a more polished feel. This creates a flattering silhouette that’s both playful and sophisticated. When it comes to footwear, ankle boots offer endless possibilities. Stilettos add instant leg-lengthening drama, while chunky heels provide comfort and a grounded vibe. Kitten heels strike a perfect balance between style and wearability. Complete the look with tights for cooler weather or bare legs with patterned or sheer tights when the temperature allows. Keep accessories minimal and elegant – a delicate necklace or statement earrings will add a touch of personality without overwhelming the outfit. A clutch or crossbody bag finishes the look for a night out, while a tote bag adds practicality for daytime adventures. This outfit formula is a timeless winner, ready to take you from work to weekend with just a few tweaks.

PAIR POINTED-TOE ANKLE BOOTS WITH WIDE-LEGGED JEANS

Wearing wide-legged jeans with pointed-toe ankle boots makes you look really good. The pointy toe of the boots makes your legs look longer and balances out the wide jeans. It keeps the focus on your ankles and gives you a modern style. You can wear this combo for different occasions, whether you want to dress up with a nice blouse and jacket or keep it casual with a t-shirt and leather jacket. Either way, the pointed-toe ankle boots add a fancy touch to your outfit.

TRY SKINNY JEANS WITH FUN, PATTERNED ANKLE BOOTS

Breathe new life into your trusty skinny jeans with a dose of playful personality! Fun, patterned ankle boots are the perfect way to add a unique touch to your everyday outfit. Let these statement pieces be the stars of the show.  Pair them with a simple, solid-colored top in a neutral tone like black, white, or gray. This ensures the boots take center stage without any competition. When it comes to the patterns, the world is your oyster! From bold florals and geometric prints to playful animal textures, choose a design that reflects your personality and complements your existing wardrobe. Remember, with patterned boots as your statement piece, keep accessories minimal and elegant. 

WEAR ANKLE BOOTS WITH TAILORED TROUSERS AND A CABLE-KNIT SWEATER

Ankle boots, nice pants, and a warm sweater make a classic and stylish outfit that you can wear to work or on the weekend. The pants should fit well and make your legs look good with the boots. Choose boots that match the outfit, like cool Chelsea boots, fancy heeled boots, or chunky heels. For accessories, pick eye-catching pieces like a necklace or earrings, and keep your bag simple. You can change your accessories or add more clothes to stay warm when you switch from work to the weekend.

ROCK JEANS AND A T-SHIRT FOR A TIMELESS, CASUAL LOOK

The jeans and t-shirt combo is a fashion staple for a reason – it’s effortless, stylish, and endlessly adaptable. This timeless pairing is perfect for casual outings, errands, or just relaxing at home. The beauty lies in its versatility.  A crisp white tee and dark wash jeans create a clean and classic look, while a graphic tee and ripped jeans add a touch of personality. No matter your style, there’s a jeans and t-shirt combination that works for you.  With the right shoes, you can take it anywhere. Sneakers keep it casual, while boots or heels can add a touch of polish. So next time you’re reaching for something comfortable and stylish, remember the timeless appeal of jeans and a t-shirt.

PAIR FAUX LEATHER WITH ANKLE BOOTS FOR AN EDGY LOOK

There are endless ways to rock this edgy combination.  Think sleek faux leather leggings paired with chunky combat boots for a street-style vibe.  For a more polished look, try a faux leather skirt with pointed-toe ankle boots and a tucked-in blouse. Don’t be afraid to experiment with textures and colors.  A glossy black faux leather jacket adds instant cool to a simple tee and jeans, while a wine-colored faux leather skirt paired with neutral boots creates a rich and sophisticated edge. 

WEAR ANKLE BOOTS WITH A WRAP DRESS IN WARM WEATHER

You can wear ankle boots with a wrap dress even when it’s warm outside! It’s a stylish choice for sunny days. Just remember a few things: Choose a wrap dress made of light fabric like cotton or linen to stay cool. A shorter dress looks nice with ankle boots and gives a relaxed feel. Pick ankle boots that are light and summery, like ones with cutouts or sandals with ankle straps. If it gets chilly in the evening, you can add a light jacket over your dress for extra warmth and style. With these tips, you’ll look fashionable and feel comfortable in your ankle boots and wrap dress combo, even in warm weather!

SHOW OFF YOUR CONFIDENCE WITH A BODY-CON DRESS

Ankle boots complement this fitted style perfectly. Show off your figure by pairing a mid-length black body-con dress with a leather jacket and heeled ankle boots, guaranteeing attention-grabbing style. Complete the look with chic sunglasses for that ultimate fashionista vibe. According to fashion expert Joanne Gruber, confidence is key in your outfit. “Your style starts with how you feel inside,” she emphasizes. When you wear your outfit with confidence and feel fantastic in it, that’s when you truly shine.

ROCK A BOMBER JACKET AND GRAPHIC TEE FOR A YOUTHFUL LOOK

Show off your unique personality with graphic tees, a comfy choice to express your interests, such as your favorite band. Add a touch of edginess to your outfit with a bomber jacket. For a rocker vibe, pair it with ankle-length combat boots, or opt for ankle boots with a bit of a heel to add a feminine twist.

CONCLUSION

As you can see, age is just a number when it comes to rocking ankle boots! With a variety of styles to choose from and endless outfit combinations, there’s a perfect pair (or a few!) waiting to be incorporated into your wardrobe. So don’t be afraid to experiment, embrace your personal style, and strut your stuff with confidence. After all, fashion is all about having fun and feeling fabulous, and ankle boots can be a key player in achieving that for any woman over 40.

WHAT TO WEAR TO A FUNERAL IN THE SUMMER

Summer funerals present a unique sartorial challenge.  Respectful mourning attire often clashes with the desire for cool, comfortable fabrics during hot weather.  Fret not!  This guide will help you navigate what to wear to a summer funeral, ensuring you look appropriate while staying cool and comfortable. We’ll cover outfit ideas for both men and women, with a focus on honoring the deceased while keeping you feeling your best.

WHAT TO WEAR TO A FUNERAL THAT IS NOT BLACK?

While wearing black to a funeral is generally acceptable in Western societies, it’s important to note that not all cultures follow this tradition. For example, at Hindu or Sikh funerals, black may be considered inappropriate, and mourners are often expected to wear white. Additionally, different cultures have their own customs regarding mourning attire:

  • Red: In South Africa, red is sometimes worn as a mourning color. In Ghana, community members typically wear black and white, while the immediate family may wear red and black.
  • Purple: In Thailand, purple symbolizes sorrow and is commonly worn by widows during the mourning period. It is also worn alongside black in Brazil.
  • Grey: In Papua New Guinea, widows may apply stone-colored clay to their skin while mourning their husbands.
  • Bright colors: Many African, Caribbean/West Indies, humanist, and non-religious funerals in the UK and worldwide may opt for vibrant colors to celebrate life.
  • Subdued colors like grey, maroon, and navy blue can also be suitable alternatives to black.

Ultimately, it’s advisable to communicate with a family member or organizer to determine what attire is appropriate for the specific funeral ceremony.

WHAT DO WOMEN WEAR TO A FUNERAL?

For appropriate funeral attire, consider the following guidelines:

  • Skirt or dress: Opt for knee-length styles that are modest and understated, paired with tights for added discretion.
  • Smart trousers: Avoid jeans or casual trousers; instead, choose full-length or ankle-grazer trousers in a dark color for a polished look.
  • Plain blouse or top: Keep it conservative with a simple blouse or top, avoiding bold colors or patterns.
  • Cardigan, jumper, or blazer: Add an extra layer for warmth or to elevate a more casual outfit, especially during winter or in cold venues.
  • Smart jumpsuit: Consider a stylish jumpsuit as a comfortable and fashionable alternative to traditional attire.
  • Smart shoes: Stick to flats or sensible heels, with open-toed shoes or sandals being acceptable depending on the service location, culture, or country.

These considerations ensure respectful and appropriate attire for a funeral service.

WHAT DO MEN WEAR TO A FUNERAL?

For a polished appearance at a funeral, consider the following attire options:

  • Smart black or dark suits: Opt for a well-fitted suit in black or a dark color, paired with a white, long-sleeved shirt, and a tie for a classic look.
  • Smart trousers and blazers: If a traditional suit is not available, smart trousers paired with a plain white T-shirt and a blazer offer a slightly more casual yet acceptable alternative.
  • Plain black tie: While optional for some, wearing a plain black tie is recommended for a particularly refined appearance.
  • Polished black shoes: Choose dress shoes such as brogues or oxfords, although any smart footwear is acceptable.

Following these suggestions ensures a respectful and appropriate attire choice for the occasion.

THE DO’S AND DON’TS

First and foremost, it’s essential to recognize that a funeral is a time for solemnity, not a showcase for fashion statements. Opt for classic garments infused with your personal style, maintaining an appropriate demeanor. Despite the summer climate allowing for more flexibility in attire, adhering to etiquette guidelines remains crucial during this somber event.

Here’s a list of dos and don’ts to assist you. While these guidelines are applicable to both genders, some aspects may resonate more with one group than the other.

DON’T WEAR

  • In the summer heat, tight clothing can lead to discomfort and excessive sweating.
  • While athletic wear might be tempting in hot weather, it’s simply not suitable for a funeral.
  • Avoid revealing or casual attire such as tank tops, shorts, sundresses, or excessively short skirts.
  • Opt for muted colors and understated jewelry to avoid drawing attention away from the solemn occasion, as bold or flashy elements may appear disrespectful.
  • Though comfortable, flip-flops, sandals, and running shoes are inappropriate footwear choices for a funeral.
  • Ensure dresses, skirts, pants, and shorts fall to an appropriate length, avoiding anything too short for the occasion.

DO’S

  • Opt for clothing that covers your shoulders and reaches the knees, ensuring modesty and respectfulness.
  • Choose dresses with short sleeves, ensuring they remain modest in style.
  • In the summer heat, prioritize cool and breathable fabrics such as linen and cotton, which are ideal for both comfort and appropriateness.
  • While black is a traditional funeral color, consider darker neutrals like dark gray, navy, or brown for summer months. However, be mindful of any cultural expectations regarding funeral attire that the mourning family may have.
  • For outdoor funeral or memorial services, including graveside services, wearing a hat can provide protection from the sun. Some religions may even require a head covering for funeral services. Opt for a simple and appropriate hat, avoiding baseball caps.
  • Keep jewelry and accessories minimal to maintain a respectful appearance.

WHAT TO WEAR TO A FUNERAL IN THE SUMMER?

In the summertime, women attending a funeral have the option of wearing a dark-colored, flowing skirt paired with a simple blouse or top, or they may choose to wear a dress. Men might find a linen-style suit more comfortable in the heat, but smart trousers paired with a lightweight shirt are also appropriate. Sunglasses are generally acceptable for outdoor services.

OUTFIT IDEAS FOR WOMEN TO WEAR TO A SUMMER FUNERAL

Knee-length dress: A black, navy or dark gray knee-length dress is a classic and respectful option. Choose a dress with a conservative neckline and sleeves that cover the shoulders. You can add a light scarf or pashmina for a touch of coverage if the dress is sleeveless.

Skirt suit: A skirt suit in a dark color is another appropriate option. Choose a skirt that falls below the knee and a jacket that covers your arms. 

Dress pants and blouse:  Dress pants and a blouse in a dark color are versatile option that can be dressed up or down. Choose a blouse with a modest neckline and sleeves that cover the shoulders. 

Maxi dress: A maxi dress in a dark color can be a comfortable and stylish option for a summer funeral. Choose a dress with a high neckline and sleeves that cover the shoulders. 

OUTFIT IDEAS FOR MEN TO WEAR TO A SUMMER FUNERAL

Suit: A suit is always a safe and respectful option for a funeral, even in the summer. However,  consider opting for a lighter weight fabric like linen or cotton to stay cool. You can also choose a suit in a dark color like navy or charcoal instead of black. 

Dress pants and shirt:  A dress shirt and dress pants in a dark color is a versatile option that can be dressed up or down. You can wear a tie for a more formal look, or leave it off for a more casual look.  Choose a long-sleeved shirt, but if it’s very hot, you can opt for a short-sleeved shirt, but make sure to wear an undershirt. 

Polo shirt and slacks: A polo shirt and slacks in a dark color is a more casual option that is still appropriate for a funeral. Choose a polo shirt in a solid color and avoid anything with logos or bright colors. 

WHAT TO WEAR TO A FUNERAL IN WINTER?

When attending a funeral in winter, it’s important to dress warmly and consider bringing extra layers, especially for graveside services. Opt for black or dark-colored coats, jackets, scarves, and gloves to stay comfortable and respectful.

FAQ

1. Are there any other color options besides black?

Yes, dark gray, navy blue and even dark brown are all appropriate choices.

2. Can I wear a dress with short sleeves to a summer funeral?

It depends. If the sleeves are very short, consider adding a light scarf or pashmina for coverage.

3. Are sandals appropriate for a summer funeral?

No, it’s best to wear closed-toe shoes like pumps, flats, loafers, or oxfords for men.

4. Can I wear bright colors or patterns to a funeral?

It’s best to avoid them. Opt for solid colors in a subdued palette.

5. What kind of fabrics are best for a summer funeral?

Choose natural, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen that will keep you cool.

CONCLUSION

Attending a summer funeral allows for slightly lighter and more breathable clothing choices compared to colder months, but respectfulness remains key. By prioritizing dark colors, natural fabrics, and modest cuts, you can choose an outfit that is both comfortable for the summer heat and appropriate for the occasion.

Remember, the focus should be on paying respects to the deceased and offering comfort to the mourners. If you’re unsure about anything, err on the side of caution and opt for a more conservative outfit. With a little planning, you can find an outfit that is both respectful and suitable for a summer funeral.