In the kaleidoscope of fashion’s ever-turning wheel, the thigh-high boot resurfaces with renewed vigor for Autumn/Winter 2023, casting aside past controversies to embrace a new era of wearable luxury.
Rewind to 2019, and a viral tableau of Southern belles clad in felt hats, denim, and those long suede boots inadvertently claimed their place as the emblem of “Christian Girl Autumn.” A whirlwind of chunky knits, pumpkin spice lattes, and autumnal walks painted their world. However, these women, unfairly tethered to accusations of homophobia and Republican allegiance, exemplify the enduring power of imagery in the digital age.
Today, the winds of change sweep the runways, ushering in the “cortado rule” – a metamorphosis of the “latte makeup” trend. The transformation evokes an oat cappuccino aura, eschewing the saccharine excesses of sugary lattes. Amidst this nuanced transition, the thigh-high boot too reclaims its spotlight, transforming into an artistic statement of unity.
Enveloped in these boots are the echelons of music royalty. Ariana Grande reigns supreme, amassing an awe-inspiring collection rivalled only by luminaries like Beyoncé, Rihanna, and Taylor Swift. The prism of color within this collection shines both onstage and off, with Stuart Weitzman’s Highland iteration, awash in suede, reigning supreme. A testament to their sturdiness, these boots serve as trusted companions for elaborate dance routines – a truth upheld by none other than Queen Bey herself during her Renaissance world tour.
Innovative personas such as Ariana and her contemporaries have etched the notion of “lampshade dressing” into our fashion lexicon. This saucy art of styling involves the fusion of slinky boots with oversized hoodies or jumpers, offering a tantalizing glimpse of upper thigh. Yet, as the leaves fall and temperatures drop, the thigh-high boot undertakes a chameleonic transformation.
Embrace the allure of Parisian chic by enveloping these boots in your ensemble’s tone and texture. Hermès unveils suede boots caressing supple leather shorts, a testament to harmonious cohesion. Sacai’s black platform boots play peekaboo beneath a pencil skirt, a masterclass in subtle elegance.
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In the grand tapestry of Hermès’ runway, the thigh-high boot weaves itself into 61 ensembles, spanning merlot, mustard yellow, black, and chocolate brown. Its versatile partnership extends from plissé silk dresses to quilted coats, breathing life into every silhouette. Bottega Veneta presents an LBD slashed not to reveal skin, but the burgundy Intrecciato weave, a signature testament to Italian craftsmanship adored by Dua Lipa. Meanwhile, Lemaire and Khaite invite a rendezvous between thigh-high boots and Matrix-inspired leather coats, a fusion of insouciance and elegance.
While these boots may strut triumphantly on the stadium stage alongside metallic bodysuits and David Koma minidresses, their true magic emerges when hues dance harmoniously and hemlines remain demure. With a pair of thigh-high boots, this autumn’s epitome of elegance rests tantalizingly within reach.