How to Wear Combat Boots Over 40? Outfit Ideas, Tips, & Expert Advice

The first step to wearing combat boots over 40 is choosing the right fit for your foot and comfort needs. Here are some factors to consider when finding combat boots that fit properly:

• Footbed design: Seek out boots with cushioned footbeds, arch support or memory foam insoles for maximum comfort. Avoid very flat, thin soles.
• Shaft height: Ankle-height combat boots are most versatile, but mid-calf and knee-high lengths can also work. Measure your calf width if considering taller boots.
• Lace-up or slip-on: Lace-up boots allow you to adjust the fit but can be tricky to get on/off. Elastic side zips are a great alternative. Slip-on styles offer easy wearability.
• Weight: Look for fairly lightweight materials like leather or nubuck. Heavier, chunky boots could strain your feet with extended wear.
• Heel height: While most combat boots have a 1-2 inch heel, some come in flat options. Consider your comfort preferences.

Trying on different combat boot styles is the best way to determine what feels most comfortable for your needs. Be sure to walk around the store with them on to assess support. A proper fit will keep you feeling great even with hours of wear.

Combat boots pair effortlessly with a range of bottoms. Here are some ideal combos:

1. Jeans

• Bootcut, straight leg, and skinny jeans beautifully complement combat boots. The narrow leg opening tucks in smoothly or lays cleanly over the top of the boot shaft.
• Cuffed jeans showing off a bit of ankle look casual and chic with boots.
• Opt for medium to high-rise jeans to balance proportions. Low rise can overwhelm the eye next to bulky boots.
• Dark washes make legs appear longer which is ideal for shorter heights.

2. Leggings

• Full length leggings that come to your ankle bone look best with combat boots. Cropped leggings can cut off the leg awkwardly.
• Black leggings are the most versatile, but colored and printed leggings can also make fun statement combos.
• Layer chunky knit legwarmers over leggings in cold weather for added texture.
• Try leather, faux leather or coated leggings for an especially edgy vibe.

3. Trousers

• Tailored trousers with a wider, cropped leg opening help balance bulky boots.
• Cargo pants complement the utility vibe of combat boots for a rugged ensemble.
• Joggers and linen pants offer a relaxed alternative to denim.
• Wider-leg and palazzo trousers will flow smoothly over combat boots.

No matter your pant style, aim for just a little bit of boot peeking out from the hem. This looks polished and intentional.

You have lots of options when it comes to pairing tops with your combat boots. Here are flattering combos to try:

1. Blouses and Tops

• Silky blouses with feminine details like ruffles, ties, or puffed sleeves soften rugged boots.
• Flowy peasant tops work well tucked loosely into high-waisted bottoms or worn untucked.
• Graphic tees and hoodies keep your look casual. Tuck them in neatly or tie up the hem.
• Cropped sweaters hitting just past your hips show a sliver of skin for a cool vibe.

2. Layers

• Leather, denim, bomber, or moto jackets complement combat boots perfectly.
• Flowing cardigans and kimonos lend softness to harsh boot edges.
• Blazers instantly pull a look together and balance proportions.
• Longline coats and dusters elongate the body next to chunky boots.
• Vests, both knit and leather, streamline bulky layers.

Don’t limit yourself to only pants with combat boots. You can also pair them with dresses and skirts for chic style. Follow these guidelines:

• Maxi skirts and dresses allow just a peek of the boots from underneath which looks effortlessly cool.
• A-line and pleated skirts glide smoothly over the boots for ease of movement. Avoid clingy pencil skirts.
• Midi skirts hitting mid-calf look stylish with ankle boots. The two hemlines meet for a leg-lengthening effect.
• Mini skirts should hit no more than a few inches above the knee for appropriate combinations.
• Loose, flowy dresses balance the solidness of bulky boots. Cinched waists define the silhouette.
• Knit sweater dresses and knits combo perfectly with textured boots. Add tights for warmth in cooler months.

Aim for skirts and dresses no more than 2-3 inches above the top of your combat boots. Anything shorter can look imbalanced.

Combat boots suit a wide range of colors and prints. Consider these foolproof options:

1. Neutrals

Black, tan, brown, and gray combat boots offer versatility to pair with prints and brights. They’re especially easy to dress up or down.

2. Metallics

Gold, silver, rose gold, and metallic snake prints add shine and interest mixed into casual looks.

3. Earth Tones

Rust orange, olive green, cream, and nudes complement natural fabrics like linen and cotton.

4. Whites

Crisp white boots pop against dark denim and neutrals but do require weatherproofing.

5. Patterns

Animal prints, plaid, camo and checkerboard boots let you incorporate print and texture.

While neutrals may be most convenient, don’t shy away from boots in richer tones and prints. They allow you to make a stylish statement.

With the right balance of slim and loose silhouettes, combat boots can suit any frame. Follow these guidelines:

• Wear fitted tops with looser bottoms to balance volume on top and bottom. Vice versa with oversized tops and slim bottoms.
• Show some skin with crop tops, tucked-in tees, or slit skirts and dresses to elongate the leg.
• Incorporate vertical details like pleats, front tucks and pin tucks to direct they eye up and down.
• Contrast chunky boots with lightweight layers on top such as blazers, cardigans and cropped jackets.
• Those with shorter legs should opt for ankle-height boots instead of bulky calf-height options.

Keeping the visual weight balanced between your boots and the rest of your silhouette will flatter any shape and size. Don’t be afraid to highlight your form.

Combat boots easily fit into so many current fashion trends, allowing you to look stylishly modern after 40:

• Athleisure: Boots paired with leggings, joggers, and hoodies make an elevated athletic ensemble.
• Utility: Olive utility pants, cargo joggers, button-downs and boxy tops complement combat boots’ functional vibe.
• All black: A black turtleneck, trousers, and leather moto instantly look chic and slimming with black boots.
• Midi skirts: Calf-grazing A-line, pleated and knit midi skirts pair perfectly with ankle boots.
• Bike shorts: Combat boots balance the sporty look of figure-hugging bike shorts for a fashion-forward contrast.
• Oversized layers: Balance billowing dusters, cardigans and coats with a sleek boot for proportion play.

Many current trends suit the combat boot aesthetic. Work them into your favorite looks for an instant style update.

Pulling all of these tips together, here are 10 fabulous head-to-toe outfit combos to inspire you to wear combat boots with confidence:

1. Straight leg jeans, silky cami, leather moto jacket, black studded combat boots
2. Olive utility joggers, white cropped tee, tan suede lace-up boots
3. Faux leather leggings, oversized pullover, black leather boots
4. Printed midi skirt, graphic tee, jean jacket, buckled boots
5. Maxi sweater dress, tights, black slick combat boots
6. Pleated metallics skirt, silk tank, cropped blazer, silver boots
7. Tailored trousers, button-down, skinny scarf, brown hiking boots
8. Bike shorts, hoodie, high-top lace-up black boots
9. Flowy floral dress, denim jacket, white chunky boots
10. Skinny jeans, off-the-shoulder top, moto vest, tan work boots

With the right styling tactics, combat boots can work for all occasions from weekend casual to night out looks. Express your personal style by playing with silhouettes, layers and bold colors.

Investing in quality combat boots means you’ll want them to last for years. Follow these care tips:

• Brush boots with a soft bristle brush before and after each wear to remove dirt and debris.
• Clean boots regularly with a leather cleaner or mild soap and damp sponge. Avoid excessive water.
• Use leather conditioner 1-2 times per year to hydrate and protect the leather.
• Waterproof spray helps repel moisture, salt stains, and discoloration. Reapply every 1-2 months.
• Store boots with cedar shoe trees to absorb moisture and maintain the shape.
• Inspect boots before each wear and take to a cobbler for repairs as needed.
• Limit wear in rain, snow and mud which can stain and deteriorate leather.

With proper care and maintenance, your combat boots can stay looking fabulous for countless seasons. Be diligent about upkeep for the longest wear.

Combat boots offer an edgy, fashion-forward element that women over 40 can easily incorporate into their wardrobes. By following the tips above on fit, styling, proportions, and care, you’ll be able to build chic head-to-toe outfits that are both trendy and age-appropriate.

The key is finding ways to soften the harsh edges of combat boots and balance their bulk and masculine vibe with feminine details. Mix up textures, silhouettes and colors to make this iconic footwear style your own. Don’t be afraid to get creative! With the right outfits, combat boots let you show off your confidence, style savvy and individuality at any age.

As a woman over 40 myself, I love styling combat boots to create casual, edgy outfits with lots of personality. They really complete so many looks, from dresses to jeans and everything between. I prefer ankle boots in black or brown leather that can pair with nearly anything in my closet. My go-to combo is skinny jeans, an oversized pullover sweater and my trusty lace-up boots. I encourage all women over 40 to embrace this versatile shoe trend by finding age-appropriate looks that express your unique style!

Can I wear combat boots to work?

Yes, combat boots can work for the office when styled appropriately. Pair them with tailored trousers, a blouse and blazer for a smart, professional look. Save super chunky boots for the weekend.

Are combat boots too masculine for women over 40?

Not necessarily – combat boots exude confidence which suits women of all ages. Feminine styling details like dresses, skirts and jewelry help balance the masculine vibe.

What height of heel is best for women over 40?

For optimal comfort, choose a low heel or block heel combat boot that provides some lift without compromising stability. 1-2 inches is ideal for maintaining balance.

Are combat boots only for younger women?

Definitely not! Combat boots are a versatile shoe choice that women over 40 can easily incorporate into their wardrobes. The key is styling them in an age-appropriate way through silhouettes, colors and pairing with feminine pieces.

Do I have to stick to neutral colors?

Black, brown and tan combat boots offer great versatility. However, don’t limit yourself – colored and patterned boots inject fun into your outfits.

What types of pants pair best with combat boots?

Skinny jeans, straight leg pants, joggers, cargo pants, and trousers all complement combat boots well for a polished look. Aim for pants in neutral colors with a wider cropped leg.

Can I wear combat boots to the office or formal events?

Yes, if styled appropriately! Pair with tailored trousers, a blouse and blazer for business casual or even black tie attire. Stick to leather or suede in black, brown or tan.

Can I wear combat boots over leggings?

Yes, provided the leggings are full length to the ankle which maintains clean lines. Pair with a tunic or longer top to prevent a messy, chopped look.

What are the best jeans to wear with combat boots?

Straight leg, boyfriend, and bootcut jeans naturally complement combat boots. Always wear the right length – too long looks sloppy, too short shows too much skin between hem and boot.

How can I wear combat boots in warm weather months?

Lightweight materials like canvas or linen combat boots work well in summer. You can also style ankle and low-top boots with shorts, skirts and summer dresses.

Do combat boots work for all body types?

Combat boots are quite versatile to flatter all figures when the proportions are balanced. Curvy shapes can opt for fitted tops and flowy bottoms while slender builds look great with oversized tops and slim bottoms.