The other day I was window shopping with a girlfriend of mine, and as we browsed the displays she began to lament that she had gotten rid of her old Dr. Martens. In Italy they are generally known as "anfibi" and they are really big right now as part of the 90s style revival for women.
If you're one of the lucky ones whose has been diligently holding onto a pair since 1994, dust them off and PUT THEM ON! Those cherry red combat boots deserve a second life. Or perhaps you're like me, currently drooling over the huge selection at Tesco and seriously considering the small investment to live out your inner grunge child. Perhaps the only thing holding you back is the masculinity of Dr. Martens, well here are 5 ways to incorporate combat boots into your wardrobe in a a very ladylike way!
Analyzing the trend I've come up with 5 styling strategies to wear your Dr. Marten's like a lady to have the best of both worlds; the practicality and comfort of combat boots (since we all know motherhood is akin to combat!) and a shoe that is actually in style and doesn't involve 4 inch heels.
How to Wear Dr. Martens Like a Lady
N°1 - A Pretty Pattern
Nothing says feminine like a floral pattern. You would be surprised at the huge selection of Dr. Martens in different seasonal floral patterns that you can find online from dark winter florals to bright spring ones. There will be no mistake that you are wearing women's boots, plus, this is a really subtle way of adding in a little edge to a look, while not going overboard.
N°2 Wear them with a Dress
I love love love this look! This is probably the only reason I would buy a pair of Dr. Martens now! Look at how sexy they look with a short floral dress! They downplay the amount of leg shown because they are flat and cover the ankle, however, they have total sex appeal. This look has so many messages....she's a free spirit, an adventurer, not afraid to get a little dirty, she acts like a boy but loves like a lady.... ok maybe I'm going a little overboard, but hey fashion should entice imagination!
N°3 Show Some Skin
Speaking of short dresses - one of the best way to balance the masculinity of a pair of Dr. Martens is by showing a little skin. Pair the boots with cut-off jeans and a plaid top for an instant hillbilly look that is ready for summer exploring.
I really love them as an alternative to flip flops if you are a tourist visiting Europe. Many people don't realize it, but there's a reason Italians only wear flip flops to the beach! Closed toe shoes can help you avoid the many urban perils found in Europe from dog poop, and lit cigarette stubs to stubbing your toes on cobble stones and public washrooms!
N°4 Pair Them With Pearls
Accessories are a quick way to change the direction of your look. It could be a few strings of pearls, a long chain and pendant necklace, or a big bold statement necklace. Earrings, bracelets and hair accessories will all impact your look, but I really think that a necklace balances out an outfit because it draws the eyes up away from the feet to the neckline and face. To ensure that your Dr. Martens are not stealing the show, you'll want to create a balancing focal point and I'm currently loving this 90s inspired pearl choker to fully complete the look!
N°5 Color Block Party
Does anyone else remember when Dr. Martens were only available in black? Or did I just age myself? Hundreds...I say HUNDREDS of colors are now available and they change with each season. Personally I LOVE their pastel line, however I'm also a big fan of the "classics" from deep burgundy and blue hues to rich purples.
The color of your Dr. Martens sends a big message about your overall style and look. Dark, colorful Dr. Martens are surprisingly versatile and can be styled from winter to summer with the right accessories. I've created a whole Pinterest board dedicated to How to Wear Dr. Martens like a Lady and I will continuously be pinning there so you have a fresh stream of inspiration!
Please let me know if you've styled them before and feel free to send me your picture for a feature on the blog. Email me at [email protected], I love seeing your style! A special thanks to TESCO for inspiring this post, I had a great time putting it together!
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