how to wear combat boots to the office
Can combat boots be worn in a professional office setting?
Combat boots can indeed be worn in a professional office setting, as long as they are styled appropriately and adhere to the company’s dress code. However, it is essential to consider the industry and company culture before incorporating combat boots into your work wardrobe. In creative fields or more casual workplaces, combat boots may be more widely accepted, while in conservative industries like finance or law, they may not be appropriate.
To ensure that combat boots are suitable for your office environment, consider opting for a sleek and polished pair of combat boots made from high-quality materials such as leather or suede. Avoid styles with excessive embellishments or chunky soles that may appear too casual. Additionally, make sure that the boots are clean and well-maintained to maintain a professional appearance.
Factors to consider:
- Industry and company culture
- Dress code guidelines
- Maintaining a polished appearance
Tips for wearing combat boots in a professional office setting:
- Pair them with tailored clothing: Combat boots can be balanced out by pairing them with tailored pieces such as trousers or pencil skirts. This combination creates a juxtaposition between edgy and polished elements.
- Opt for neutral colors: When choosing combat boots for the office, stick to neutral colors like black, brown, or navy blue. These colors are versatile and easier to incorporate into professional outfits.
- Add feminine touches: To soften the look of combat boots, incorporate feminine elements into your outfit. This could include wearing a blouse with ruffles or lace detailing, accessorizing with delicate jewelry, or carrying a structured handbag.
Appropriate outfits to pair with combat boots for the office
1. Business Casual Look:
For a business casual office environment, you can pair your combat boots with tailored trousers or dark-wash jeans. Opt for a tucked-in blouse or a button-down shirt and layer it with a blazer or cardigan. This combination strikes the perfect balance between professionalism and edginess.
2. Dressier Ensemble:
If your workplace allows for slightly dressier attire, consider pairing your combat boots with a midi skirt or a knee-length dress. Choose neutral-colored boots to maintain a polished look and accessorize with statement jewelry to add some personality to your outfit.
3. Monochromatic Outfit:
Create an effortlessly chic look by wearing all-black or monochromatic outfits with your combat boots. Pair black skinny jeans or leggings with a black turtleneck sweater and add a longline coat for extra sophistication. This minimalist approach exudes confidence while keeping your outfit office-appropriate.
Dress codes and guidelines for wearing combat boots to work
a) Research Your Company’s Dress Code Policy:
Before incorporating combat boots into your work wardrobe, familiarize yourself with your company’s dress code policy. Some workplaces may have strict guidelines regarding footwear, while others may be more lenient.
b) Consider the Industry Norms:
Take into account the industry you work in when deciding whether combat boots are appropriate for the office. While they may be acceptable in creative fields like fashion or advertising, they might not be suitable for more traditional industries such as finance or law.
c) Keep it Professional:
When wearing combat boots to work, ensure that the rest of your outfit remains professional and polished. Avoid overly casual clothing items such as ripped jeans or graphic t-shirts. Instead, opt for tailored pieces and clean lines to maintain a put-together appearance.
Tips for styling combat boots in a polished and professional manner
a) Choose Sleek and Streamlined Designs:
Opt for combat boots with sleek silhouettes and minimal embellishments. Look for styles that are made of high-quality leather or suede, as they tend to appear more refined and professional.
b) Pair with Tailored Pieces:
To create a polished look, pair your combat boots with tailored pieces such as blazers, structured dresses, or pencil skirts. This combination adds a touch of sophistication while still allowing you to showcase your personal style.
c) Pay Attention to Proportions:
When styling combat boots, consider the proportions of your outfit. If you’re wearing a flowy dress or skirt, balance it out with a more fitted top. Alternatively, if you choose to wear skinny jeans or leggings, pair them with an oversized sweater or blouse for a well-balanced look.
Choosing the right color and style of combat boots for the office
1. Neutral Colors:
Opt for combat boots in neutral colors like black, brown, or tan. These versatile shades can easily be paired with various outfits and exude professionalism.
2. Classic Lace-Up Style:
Choose classic lace-up combat boots that have a clean design without excessive hardware or embellishments. This timeless style is more likely to be accepted in an office setting compared to bolder variations.
3. Mid-Calf Height:
Consider mid-calf height combat boots as they strike the perfect balance between casual and formal. They provide coverage without overwhelming your outfit and can be worn with both pants and skirts/dresses.
Accessories and items to enhance the office-appropriate look with combat boots
a) Statement Belts:
Add a stylish touch to your office outfit by accessorizing with a statement belt. Opt for a wide or embellished belt that cinches your waist when wearing combat boots with dresses or skirts.
b) Structured Handbags:
Pair your combat boots with a structured handbag in a complementary color. This adds sophistication to your overall look and ties the outfit together.
c) Layered Jewelry:
Enhance your office-appropriate ensemble by layering delicate necklaces or stacking bracelets. These small details can elevate your outfit and showcase your personal style while still maintaining professionalism.
Celebrities and fashion influencers who successfully wear combat boots to the office
1. Alexa Chung:
Alexa Chung, a British fashion influencer, often incorporates combat boots into her office outfits. She pairs them with tailored trousers, blazers, and feminine blouses, creating an effortlessly cool yet professional look.
2. Olivia Palermo:
Olivia Palermo, known for her impeccable style, has been spotted wearing combat boots in various professional settings. She combines them with polished dresses or skirts and adds sophisticated outerwear to complete her chic ensembles.
3. Zendaya:
Zendaya is another celebrity who confidently rocks combat boots in her office attire. She often pairs them with tailored suits or high-waisted pants, showcasing how this edgy footwear can be incorporated into a professional wardrobe.
Mistakes to avoid when incorporating combat boots into an office outfit
a) Wearing overly worn-out or distressed boots:
Avoid wearing combat boots that are excessively worn out or distressed as they may appear too casual or unprofessional for the office. Opt for well-maintained and polished boots instead.
b) Pairing with overly casual clothing:
Steer clear of pairing combat boots with overly casual items like sweatpants, hoodies, or graphic t-shirts. Instead, opt for more tailored and structured pieces to maintain a professional appearance.
c) Neglecting proper hygiene and maintenance:
Ensure that your combat boots are clean, well-maintained, and free from scuffs or dirt marks. Regularly polish them and keep the laces tidy to maintain a polished look in the office.
Maintaining a professional appearance while wearing combat boots
a) Keep your outfit balanced:
When wearing combat boots, ensure that the rest of your outfit remains balanced. If you choose to wear edgier footwear, balance it out with more conservative clothing choices to maintain a professional appearance.
b) Pay attention to grooming:
Maintain good personal grooming habits by ensuring your hair is neat, nails are well-manicured, and overall hygiene is maintained. These small details contribute to an overall professional appearance when wearing combat boots.
c) Confidence is key:
Wearing combat boots confidently can enhance your professional appearance. Embrace your personal style while adhering to workplace guidelines, and exude confidence in your outfit choices.
Alternative footwear options for non-suitable office environments
1. Loafers:
Loafers are a classic and versatile option for workplaces that don’t allow combat boots. Choose sleek leather or suede loafers in neutral colors for a sophisticated look.
2. Chelsea Boots:
Chelsea boots offer a sleek and polished alternative to combat boots. They can be paired with both pantsuits and dresses/skirts, making them suitable for various office environments.
3. Pointed-Toe Flats:
Pointed-toe flats provide a feminine and professional option for those who prefer a more delicate look. Opt for flats in leather or suede with minimal embellishments to maintain a polished appearance.
In conclusion, by following a few simple guidelines, combat boots can be stylishly incorporated into office attire, adding a touch of edginess and personality to one’s professional look.
