Thank you to Saks OFF 5TH and ShopStyle for partnering on this post.
As you guys have seen in recent posts, I’ve been a complete convert of the practical combat boot trend. It took some trial & error to find ones flattering for a petite frame, but these lace-up boots from Saks OFF 5TH are one other great option that I’ve mentioned several times this year. They’re a less rugged, no platform alternative to the Sam Edelman pair I’ve been loving, so if those were a little out of your style zone, then these might be a good transitional contender.
The Saks boots are well-made with an overall sleeker profile compared to most combat boot options, and a side zip closure as well so that you don’t have to untie them. They’re currently fully stocked in sizes 5 – 11 and run narrow in my opinion. I’m between a 5 and 5.5 in most shoe brands, and while a size 5.5 in these did fit, I ended up sizing up to a 6 in order to wear them comfortably with my thicker winter socks.
I plan on sharing more everyday outfit ideas with combat boots, but the easiest -and always flattering- pairing I keep defaulting to is just slim black bottoms and a more generously fitting top. This sweater has been a new go-to of mine to pair with leggings and features a textured medium weight material, longer length (hits about 2″ past the crotch on me), and a flattering lower funnel neck. It has an oversized fit in the torso, while the sleeves are narrower, helping them stay put on my arms when pushed up. From the F&F sale, I would also recommend these Karl by Karl Lagerfeld booties (restocked in size 5+) which I’ve had for a few years now!
I love this look! Totaly black always look stylish!
Hi Jean, can you do a post about how the Sam Edelman boots fit? Would love to see more photos of them on you!
Hi Sonia, I shared about the fit of the SE boots in this post and within that post also linked to another way I’ve styled them!
Hi Jean, I’ve been loving the look and company philosophy behind Thursday boot company, but they are a bit more of an investment versus my usual picks. Wondering if you (or your readers) have any experience with them or might consider doing a post. Thanks!
Hi Bex, I haven’t heard of them before but I’ll have to take a look, thanks for sharing!
Hi Jean! First, great outfit! I love this look.
What are you favorite socks to wear with these boots, or with any of your favorite duck boots?
Thanks!
Hi Ellie, I’m also interested to hear Jean’s suggestions especially because I’m no expert on sock and boot combos so sorry to jump in here but I wanted to throw out a couple of suggestions based on things I’ve tried recently – This Night (this-night.com) for cool printed cotton/lyrca/nylon socks, and Farm to Feet (farmtofeet.com) for wool/nylon/spandex socks in solid dark colors. They have sporty colorways, too, but I look for the solids. Their color selection has changed since I first found them. I also like Smartwool and have heard good things about Darn Tough.
Thank you Ellie – I receive Smartwool socks for Christmas every year and have started gifting them too! Great quality, thick and warm.
Did you have to spray the combat boots with protectant?
Hi Cassandra – I didn’t, it doesn’t look like an easily permeable leather (seems easy to wipe clean) plus it’s black so it should be hardy. But it never hurts to use a spray like Cadillac or Apple Care brand.
I have hair envy lol. Lovely photo and cool set up.
Jean,
I have a question about the boots since you size up did it looks bigger in the front than normal when you wear it. I’m an 8 and 8.5 is comfortable but I prefer wide and since you mentioned it narrowed. I’m debating if I should go with a 8.5 it 9. But then if I size too a 9 I don’t want it to look super huge I’m length on the side view of front. I know some boots might do that.
Hi Lien, I think we talked about this over IG but let me know if you have any more questions about the sizing!
Loving the cool look!
Briana