Design & Style

How to Wear Combat Boots: 6 Ways to Style Combat Boots

Written by MasterClass

Last updated: Mar 14, 2022 • 2 min read

Initially designed for military use, combat boots are durable, and they work well with many street-style outfit ideas. You can wear these stylish boots to create a bold outfit or pair them with skirts and dresses for an edgy look.

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What Are Combat Boots?

Combat boots are large, durable boots typically made out of black leather. Soldiers wear combat boots during training or combat because of their firm grip, ankle stability, and suitability for multiple terrains. Combat boots are popular for grunge, goth, and casual looks.

A Brief History of Combat Boots

The style and features of combat boots have changed throughout history:

  • Trench boots: In the United States, trench boots were an early form of combat boot, and soldiers wore these boots for trench warfare during World War I. Trench boots were made out of cowhide and were extremely high, with the shaft going up to the knee.
  • Jungle boots: A few decades later, the military switched to boots made of shined black leather called jungle boots. These boots were adapted with features like mesh ventilation and rubber soles to equip soldiers in wet, humid environments.
  • Desert boots: Today, the Army Combat Uniform (ACU) consists of camouflage garb and lace-up, tan combat boots that go up to just above the ankle.
  • Combat boots: The iconic black leather combat boot is a trend outside of military culture. These streetwear fixtures create a bold silhouette and go with various pants and tops, from skinny jeans and blazers to flowy pants and graphic tees.

6 Ways to Style Combat Boots

A pair of combat boots can make for a bold combo with anything from maxi dresses to leather jackets. Consider the following ways to create your own combat boots outfit:

  1. 1. Try jeans and an oversized sweater. Wear straight-leg jeans and an autumnal, oversized sweater or chunky cardigan with combat boots for a fall outfit.
  2. 2. Combine a trench coat and turtleneck. For a classy, on-the-go look, wear your favorite combat boots with a trench over a turtleneck.
  3. 3. Pair with a leather jacket. A leather jacket with leather boots is a timeless pairing. You can create an all-black outfit, or wear a leather jacket and combat boots with jeans and a white T-shirt for a 1950s greaser look.
  4. 4. Wear with leather pants. For an edgy look, wear leather leggings or faux leather leggings with your combat boots.
  5. 5. Go for a dressier look. You can wear combat boots with a midi dress or sweater dress with tights or leggings for a warm winter outfit. You can also wear combat boots with a skirt and blazer over a tucked-in button-down for a smart casual look.
  6. 6. Wear with plaid pants and a black top. Wear a black top and black combat boots to let your colorful plaid pants be the star of the show.

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