Frye Melissa Belted Women’s Knee High Boots

Booties can stop right at the ankle, below it or above it. Other boots hit at the mid-calf, below the knee or over the knee. Choosing the right pair of women’s boots starts with a purpose. Are they to match a certain outfit, for long periods of walking or just to look great?

If comfort is a priority, look for boots with memory foam footbeds or other kinds of arch support. Those that do not offer either may have room to accommodate separately-purchased arch support.

Be picky about heel height if you worry about comfort. Wedges can be great for high arches, while lower styles work well with flatter feet. Usually, the lower the heel, the more casual the look. If you choose 100% leather boots, they will last longer than man-made materials, but they also typically cost more.

• Be good to your boots and they will be good to you: Waterproofing leather boots can make them last longer, and if you avoid wearing your boots in wet or snowy weather, they will also stay in better shape.
• Take fashion risks! Sure, ankle boots look great with jeans, but why not try wearing them with skirts or shorts? Look online for inspiration.
• Look for features like side zippers and pulls on the backs to make the boots easier to get in and out of. If you have wider calves, you can find styles that have sizes to accommodate that.