Style in a Suitcase, Part 3: Black, browns + ankle boot woes

This is a scheduled post. I won't be able to answer any questions until I return. Thank you for reading!

Gap Boys Gingham Shirt sz S - now $12 (boxy fit photos) (navy version), Theory blazer (similar)
Nordies Rack pearls, YesStyle skirt (old), Adrienne V. booties, H&M bag & belt, Michael Kors watch

I wish ankle boots weren't so challenging for shorter legs, because I love the bit of edge they add. An easy, elongating way for petites to do the ankle boot is to pair black booties with dark bottoms or tights (see oldie). If you want to go bare-legged, try shorts or dresses/skirts with higher hems to make up for the leg line being truncated at the ankle. I find this latter look to be so chic, but acknowledge it's less flattering on short legs (and bowed - to this day Grandma laments not "straightening out my knees" before it was too late, whatever that entails).

When I initially purchased these cognac booties online, I pictured them to be lengthening against tanned legs. Wishful thinking! Once I put them on, I was hit by the realization that my skin is not and will never be close to a chocolate color. Aside from the simple dark skinny jean, I was stumped about how to wear these boots without appearing stumpy...

After much trial and error, I ended up with a few pairings that were acceptable but not great. I tried a deeper brown (combo shown here) and a dark olive. I also took inspiration from J.Crew and tried a heathered gray tight (to be shown soon), which is fun but not for everyone. Lastly, I tried these boots with skirts of various lengths, and each pairing looked frumpy dumpy except with my shortest, neutral-colored miniskirt shown here.

Keeping the top half sleek was also important. I tried this same skirt + bootie combo on with my chunkier mustard cardigan and boxier tweed jacket, and both looked top-heavy and not so great. Thankfully, I packed one basic black blazer to stay warm in for dinner. 

You can easily convert this outfit for the office by replacing the mini and ankle boots with a longer skirt and pumps. Gingham has the reputation of being a casual fabric (or more commonly, a material for men's button-ups), but each time I've worn it to work I've received a number of compliments and inquiries. If you work in a conservative environment, just keep the colors simple and conceal most of the pattern under sleek suiting separates.

 

Readers - I'd love to hear your ideas (or see links) on other ways a short-legged girl can style non-black ankle boots.