Fashion 20 Fresh Ways to Wear Boots in the Summer By Drew Elovitz Drew Elovitz Drew is a Brooklyn-based writer and editor who has held positions at Teen Vogue, Entertainment Weekly, and Who What Wear. She always has a recommendation for a great TV show, nail polish color, or fancy dress to buy on sale. And, while Drew loves high heels, she is often found running around Brooklyn in workout gear and Birkenstocks. InStyle's editorial guidelines Updated on July 9, 2024 @ 10:00AM Close Photo: Getty Images If you're struggling to figure out how to wear your favorite ankle boots or combat boots this summer, don't sweat it; there are tons of summer boot outfits to wear that both look and feel cool in warm weather. From pairing stiletto styles with miniskirts to wearing wide-leg jeans with knee-high versions, we've discovered the best ways to wear boots no matter the temperature—taking cues from street style stars for major outfit inspiration. With a Colorful Blazer Getty Images A white cotton dress is a summer staple; pairing one with black leather boots adds an edgy contrast and a pastel-colored blazer is the perfect feminine layering piece. With a Fancy Dress Getty Images Here, white wedge heel booties strike a sharp contrast with a flowy hot pink dress, but everything is tied together with a fun snow leopard print clutch. With a Miniskirt Getty Images When the boots are busy with embellishments or animal prints, stick to the basics. You can never go wrong with a denim miniskirt and a simple T-shirt. It's also another opportunity to amp up the accessories. With Classic Black and White Getty Images These Western-style boots put a totally different spin on this academic-inspired get-up. It's giving Britney Spears's "Hit Me, Baby, One More Time…" remixed with "I Love Rock 'n Roll," and who doesn't love an unexpected mash-up? With a Cropped Tank Getty Images This is an absolutely perfect way to wear boots in the summer—no notes. Just the basics: black ankle boots, black miniskirt, and white tank, done. With a Breezy Color Palette Getty Images White boots are back at it—this time with a more casual look featuring a white jersey skirt and embroidered light blue blouse. It's giving summer in the city with just a hint of a seaside breeze. With a Matching Set Getty Images If you think a matching set is a one-trick pony, think again. A summery suit can be edged up with slip-on black Chelsea boots and complementary accessories in a snap. We can't wait to try out this look IRL. With a Shorts Suit Getty Images Additional proof white boots truly go with everything: this tailored tweed shorts suit. We're inspired. With a Linen Set Getty Images Linen sets are a summer favorite. Pairing patent leather boots with this casual fabric may seem fussy, but somehow it works, especially when choosing matching colors. With Shades of Cream Getty Images Beige and other neutral colors just go together. It’s a fact. Sashay from summer to fall in an outfit made with knits and light suede boots. Change up the vibe with a casual straw bag for daytime or a leather clutch at night. With Major Volume Getty Images Your boots can be simple, like a classic combat style. Instead, play with color and volume for a look that still makes a serious statement. With Bright Colors Getty Images Brightly colored boots can be tricky, but we love the idea of pairing them with an equally vibrant outfit. Stick to the same color family or lean into a hard contrast; you'll stand out either way. To Contrast a Statement Shade Getty Images We're all about Barbiecore for summer, so why not try pairing a neon pink shorts outfit with cowboy boots? Barbie certainly would ... With Denim Getty Images Tuck your baggy jeans into knee-high leather boots with substantial heels. Pair ‘em with a breezy summer top, and you’re ready for wherever the day takes you. With Shorts Getty Images It may seem obvious, but wearing rainboots in summer is definitely an option. Whether you're walking through muddy puddles on festival grounds or traversing the city on a slick sidewalk, rainboots are both practical and cute when paired with shorts or even a dress. With a Slip Dress Getty Images Don’t overthink it: A long, silky slip dress looks even more luxe when worn with patent leather boots. With Cargo Pants Getty Images When wearing more voluminous pants with ankle boots, try tucking the ends into the top of the boots. This simple styling trick can take even the most basic pants and shirts outfit into street-style territory. With a Suit Jacket Getty Images If you feel like you need an additional layer over a skin-baring look, you can't go wrong with an oversized blazer. We love the surprise pop of color via a long button-down here, too. With a Casual Dress Getty Images You don't need an excuse to wear these iconic Chloé booties year-round. We love how the studied style adds a bit more style cred to an otherwise casual dress. In an Unexpected Shade Getty Images Blue suede boots are not for the faint of heart, but we have to admit: This is a fun look. Again, when the boots are the outfit, keep the rest of the look simple with a solid color and unfussy fabric.