Each Autumn, we see gorgeous knee high, leather boots all over magazines and style experts tell us that every woman in the world needs a great pair of tall boots. What's cuter than a pair of tall black boots worn with a knee length skirt and a gorgeous sweater? Nothing, I say.
One problem. Where do you FIND knee high boots for plus size legs? You can tramp around the mall all day if you want, but you're not going to find them there. As with most other dilemmas in life, this is one problem that can be solved via the internet. But, before we start shopping for our dream boots, let's keep a couple of things in mind.
First, a good pair of boots should be considered an investment. If you're okay with leather, that's your best bet. Leather only looks better with age, especially if you take good care of it. Keep them clean and polished and make sure to check the heels for wear. We've been seeing knee high boots season after season for years now and I'm guessing they won't go out of style anytime soon. Dropping a hundred dollars or more seems like a lot now but consider how much you'll wear a pair of boots that you love.
Second, you'll want to measure the circumference of your calves. Most retailers will provide a calf measurement and many styles offer additonal stretch. If you're nervous about the shaft of the boot not having enough stretch, consider a pair that lace up the back or side. You'll get the same look but with a customized fit.
Third, if you don't find yourself wearing skirts on a somewhat regular basis, you might want to consider a shorter shaft height. You can get the same "these boots were made for walkin', baby" look without the expense of a tall boot. And then you can afford to buy more than one pair. A good pant boot will extend beyond your ankle and will cover your leg even while sitting. Compare the retailer's height measurement against your own leg. You might even want to make a mark with an eyeliner and then try on a pair of trousers to see if the boots will come up high enough.
Fourth, if it's possible, order more than one size. You can try them on at home and then send back the size(s) you don't want. This will save you the headache of having to exchange boots back and forth multiple times through the mail.
Fifth, this is the last one I promise, consider what you'll be wearing underneath your boots. It's a good idea to put a barrier between your skin and leather to avoid sweating and chaffing. I would wear knee high trouser socks or tights in the same color as the boots themselves. For tall boots with skirts, this will provide a long, monochromatic line that's very flattering to any set of gams. For pant boots, if your leg happens to peek out a little over the boot, it won't be as obvious if your socks match your shoes. When trying on any shoes or boots, wear the same type of socks you'll be wearing when you actually wear your shoes out in the real world.
Oh! Ok, one more. Heel height. Personally, I can't do anything higher than a kitten heel without toppling over but I'm a klutz. Many women can wear super high heels on a daily basis and are fine. Measure the height of a pair of heels that are already in your wardrobe and consider how much higher you're willing to go. If you can jog in a pair of 3" spike heels, go on gurl but if you're like most women, you'll probably want a pair with 2" (or so) stacked heels. The wider the width of the heel, the more stability it will provide.
Ok, NOW we can shop for boots.
Your first stop for shoes should almost always be Zappos. Check out their boot boutique
and click on the wide calf boots link under the women's boots listing. The best thing about Zappos is the quality and reliability of their service. You can try boots on in the comfort of your own home and send back the ones that don't work out. They pay for return shipping and you have up to 365 days to send items back. There are also product reviews from other customers so you know what you're getting into!
Silhouettes
has a nice selection of classic leather boots in wide and extra wide calf widths. All of their shoes come in regular, wide, and extra wide widths so even if you have wide calves and regular width feet, you'll find a pair of boots that will fit perfectly. There are ankle, knee high, suede, back lace, and trendy suede and fleece styles. They provide shaft height and calf width measurements.
I'm quickly becoming a big fan of the entire Jessica London shoe collection. There's a big selection of heel heights, colors, widths, and styles to choose from. Some boots are specifically for wide calves. You'll want to check out the wide width shoe category for boots for wide calves and feet. The prices are very reasonable.
Woman Within has a small selection of boots but if you're looking for a pair of boots at a very reasonable price, definitely check out this site. Their product descriptions provide measurements for everything.
Of these first four sites, Roaman's has the most unique selection of boots. There are classic, knee high boots but there are trendier styles, too. I'm almost positive that all of their shoes and boots come in regular, wide and extra wide widths. Another site with reasonable prices.
I personally own a pair of wide calf boots from Avenue
and I can tell you that they are fantastic quality, sturdy, and provide great support if you're on your feet all day. I plan on getting a pair of Cloudwalkers trouser boots after Christmas. I tried on a pair last winter and was amazed at how flexible the ankle shaft wss.
Shoes.com has a few pairs of wide calf boots, which you can find through their site search.
The shoes and boots at Torrid.com might be a good option. I love their entire shoe selection but they're not what I'd call investment pieces.
