Although I’m 5'7" myself, many of my closest friends fall into the petite category. And as the designated fashion person in the group, I'm often the first port of call when they’re in need of styling advice. This week, the group chat was alight as I circulated an image of Michelle Williams styling the petite-friendly shoe trend I've told them all to consider.

Snapped on the streets of New York during a promo run for her new show, Dying for Sex, Williams ditched the dainty ballet flats and Mary Janes dominating the season and instead opted for something bolder: a pair of thigh-grazing, over-the-knee boots.

By allowing the boots to begin exactly where her babydoll minidress ended, Williams created one long, fluid line from thigh to toe. The result elongated her frame—proof that sleek over-the-knee boots can be a game-changer for petite women. Add in a tall, structured heel, and suddenly, there’s not only the illusion of added height but also a pretty boho formula that's surprisingly easy to recreate and that chimes with the mood of the new season. Perhaps unsurprisingly, Williams' boots are from Chloé, the brand leading this boho rennaisance from the runways.

Williams completed her look with a long-line pendant necklace and a rich burgundy handbag. And while this outfit might not follow the typical rules of spring dressing, in my opinion, it’s perfectly suited for transitional weather. The tall boots add warmth, the sleeveless dress allows for breathability, and the overall effect strikes that ideal balance between drama and femininity.

Inspired? I certainly am. If you're ready to give it a go too, scroll on to shop my edit of the best over-the-knee boots below.

SHOP OVER-THE-KNEE BOOTS:

When it comes to airport style, I am all about outfits that are comfortable without sacrificing style, and your shoes are the key component for accomplishing this. Heels are a hard no in my book, as well as any other footwear that makes for a complicated run through the security line. This leaves flat shoes like loafers, ankle boots, sneakers and my all-time favourite: ballet flats. While ballet flats truly never go out of style, they are currently at the forefront of shoe trends at the moment.

I know I am not alone in this preference as evidenced by the many stylish celebrities that are spotted traveling in the timeless flat shoe style, whether it's a Mary Jane style or a studded pair. Besides the ease, they instantly elevate even the most basic of outfits. Just don’t forget to pack a pair of socks in your carry-on to save you from a grimy barefoot walk through security. Ahead, check out eight inspiring celebrity airport looks with ballet flats. Plus, shop some of the chicest options out there right now.

1. Elle Fanning in Satin and Leather Ballet Flats

Style Notes: Fanning has a sleek and chic look that's softened with a pair of pink satin ballet flats with leather details.

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2. Ashley Olsen in Two-Tone Flats

Style Notes: Olsen is effortlessly chic in a camel coat, black jeans, and two-tone ballet flats. As one co-founder behind The Row, it's no surprise she knows how to style flats, especially when her brand's own versions always sell out.

3. Jasmine Tookes in Black Ballet Flats

Style Notes: Tookes understands that comfort is key for any flight. Try a matching knitted set for in-flight comfort, and an easy pair of ballet flats for a delicate touch. You can never go wrong with classic black.

4. Kate Bosworth in Neutral Ballet Flats

Style Notes: For an easy, polished feel, try this look from Bosworth—white button-down shirt, cropped jeans, and neutral ballet flats. Flats in subtler tones will go with everything you've packed.

5. Cindy Crawford in Animal Print Flats

Style Notes: This easy-breezy outfit idea from Crawford requires four pieces: a trench coat, white T-shirt, slim jeans, and snakeskin flats. There are plenty of other faux animal print options too if you like this maximalist spin on the shoes.

6. Elsa Hosk in Shiny Flats

Style Notes: Hosk gives a sleek pair of shiny black ballet flats the model treatment with a statement off-the-shoulder top. Whether you prefer patent leather or something subtler, shinier textures always feel like a statement.

7. Michelle Williams in Pointe-Inspired Flats

Style Notes: Williams took the word 'ballet' seriously when it came to her look. She completed her stylish travel outfit with pretty pink ballet flats that are reminiscent of those actually used out on the vinyl dance floor. Opt for square pointe-inspired picks or those with rounded softer edges.

8. Miranda Kerr in Metallic Flats

Style Notes: Kerr is all smiles in a vibrant printed top, slim black jeans, and shiny square-toed flats.

More Stylish Ballet Flats to Shop Now