What To Wear With Your Winter White Boots

Here’s a question: Is something a new “trend” if it never truly went away in the first place? We've been wondering about this lately in regards to the ubiquitous white boot. They’ve always been around in some capacity, but now, it’s to the point where they’ve become inescapable—which, we guess, is what makes them feel so trendy.

In a sense, it's fascinating that the white boot is everywhere because white clothing items, especially in wintertime, can be tricky territory to navigate. And items you’re wearing on your feet—and whose squeaky-clean appearance has the potential to be ruined with one fatal step—are probably the hardest. But, those who dare to jump on the always-moving bandwagon know just how wearable white boots are.

For one, white is a neutral so it goes with everything. Two, unlike the black boots that blend into the sea of everyone else’s black boots, the lightness of white boots make them truly eye-catching. And finally, white boots can feel as casual as a pair of sneakers or as fancy as a pair of formal heels. This means you can wear them with a pair of jeans and a nice sweater, definitely, but also with other more unexpected pieces. To give you a sense of what we mean, ahead, we put together a couple of inspirational outfits to help (gently) push you into the wonderful world of white boots. New year, new risks, eh?

We imagine this is what Olivia Pope wore when she was younger and wasn’t hemmed in by the wardrobe restrictions that come with working in the White House. We've amped up a signature statement coat with a pair of thigh-high white boots, an A-line skirt, and a turtleneck. Then again, maybe this should be tacked onto the inspiration board for the Scandal/How to Get Away with Murder crossover episode that’s in the works (or, is already done?). A little winter white in the White House never hurt.

H&M, Cotton Turtleneck Top, $19.99, available at H&M; Courrèges, A-Line Mini Skirt, $530, available at Farfetch; Topshop, Contrast Stitch Twill Coat, $79.99, available at Nordstrom; Laurence Dacade, Pastel Boots, $1,082, available at Laurence Dacade.

Slipping on a pair of white boots will instantly turn a regular athleisure outfit into one you can maybe get away with wearing to work. The subtle red and silver detailing on these is an easy way to add a bit of color, also.

Topshop, Tailored Track Top, $110, available at Topshop; Topshop, Popper Side Detail Pants, $95, available at Topshop; Laura Lombardi, Mini Hoop Earring, $94, available at Laura Lombardi; Neous, Boot in White/Red/Platino, $640, available at Need Supply.

Another “trend” that gets flack for not being “professional” is the mechanic-inspired jumpsuit. You can and obviously should wear it with the footwear of your choice, but if you are looking to elevate it a bit, a white boot is a stellar choice.

MM6 Maison Margiela, Jumpsuit, $580, available at Matches Fashion; Baggu, Lens Cross Body, $128, available at Baggu; Catbird, Zodiac Ring, $124, available at Catbird; Bershka, Mid-Heel Ankle Boots, $35.90, available at Bershka.

On the flip side, you can add some edge to an otherwise conservative outfit by throwing on these Maison Margiela babies. White boots don’t have to be prim and proper! In fact, it’s more fun when a little unexpected detail is thrown into the mix.

COS, Straight-Fit Wool Sweatshirt, $81, available at COS; Zara, Check Wrap Skirt, $29.99, available at Zara.; Justine Clenquet, Lisa Braided Chain Choker, $140, available at Opening Ceremony; Maison Margiela, Tabi Denim Boot, $885, available at Need Supply.