Boots
Dec 27, 2022

I'm 5'3", and These Are the Best Boots for My Frame

by Adrienne Faurote

When you’re on the shorter side, finding the perfect boots is equivalent to finding the perfect pair of denim; certain styles will flatter your frame, some design elements are best left to the tall, and when you find the perfect pair, you cherish them. As a fashion editor who is just shy of 5’3 1/2”, I’ve spent the last several years dabbling in new boot trends, from high-fashion thigh-high boots to chunky Chelsea boots, to discover boot silhouettes that just work for my frame. Through the meticulous process of trial and error—and the inevitable pain of breaking in new boots—I’ve nailed down the short-girl boot formula. Now, when buying boots, I always reference my checklist of heel height, boot height, and toe shape to ensure that I am investing in the right pair.

And let’s make one thing clear: Your height does not limit your boot choice; it just informs the purchase. For instance, when I am trying over-the-knee boots, I know I need to look for structural elements or a slouchy shape for volume, a square or pointy toe, and at least a baby heel. If I opt for a flatter sole, I know it needs to either be a platform or a dramatic chunky heel to accentuate my height and balance my proportions. Within every boot trend of the season, there will always be an option for shorter people. Ahead, discover the 20 best boots that will never fail short girls.

Mango Leather Boots With Tall Leg

Leather Boots With Tall Leg

Tall, sturdy structure adds instant volume to your look.

Mango Heel Suede Ankle Boot

Heel Suede Ankle Boot

Repeat after me: Square-toe boots are great for short girls.

Vicenza Friday Fever Heel Boots

Friday Fever Heel Boots

Don’t be scared of a pointy heel. Once they are broken in, they will become your best friend.

Voile Blanche Tweed 09 Chelsea Boots

Tweed 09 Chelsea Boots

I will admit that I don’t love flat boots, but I am aware that I cannot wear heels 24/7. Thus, I opt for platform boots when I go flat.

Sam Edelman Sam Edelman Britten

Sam Edelman Britten

Again, not a high heel, but the baby heel of a cowboy boot is just the right amount of height.

best leather square-toe boots

Knee high + square toes + low heels = yes.

Sam Edelman Ulissa Boots

Over the last few years, this shape has become my go-to with denim if I am not in the mood for knee-high boots but still want to add polish to my outfit.

Palladium Pallabase Twill Boots

Pallabase Twill Boots

Chunky boots are in. You heard it here first.

By Far Tia Sequoia Boots

Tia Sequoia Boots

Simple structure adds sophistication to any knee-high boots.

best over the knee boots

Over Knee Long Boots Fashion Boots

When it comes to over-the-knee boots, a silhouette that hugs your leg is best. If you opt for a slouchy pair or structured, it will drown out your frame (speaking from experience here!)

Sam Edelman Anika Bootie

Another perfect example of the ultimate short-girl boots.

By Far Stevie 42 Cement Nappa Leather Boots

Stevie 42 Cement Nappa Leather Boots

As a short girl, investing in the perfect pair of boots is always worth it because once you find The One, you rarely take them off.

Ugg Mini Bailey Bow II Boots

Mini Bailey Bow II Boots

A bit of a wild card, but these Ugg minis are one of my favorites for my loungewear looks, and yes, I often wear them with shorts.

best neutral boots

Brit Boot in Camel

The perfect boot shape for styling with dresses and skirts.

Loeffler Randall Elise Slim Ankle Booties

Loeffler Randall

Elise Slim Ankle Booties

For ankle boots, opt for flattering fitted shapes like these.

Journee Collection Bexlie Boot

Journee Collection

Gotta love sock booties! Fitted boots almost always elongate your legs.

James Chelsea Boots

James Chelsea Boots

The ultimate short-girl rain boots.

Mango Ankle Boots With Block Heel

Ankle Boots With Block Heel

If you aren’t feeling a fitted number for an ankle boot, try neutral, low-heel booties. And be sure that your straight-leg denim hits below the booties to avoid a gap.

Wandler June Long Boots

June Long Boots

Trust me—they’re worth it.