The annual fashion dilemma is upon us again: finding over-the-knee boots that not only go with all of your fall and winter outfits, but also won’t require you to empty your bank account just to secure a pair. The task is even harder for boot lovers who need over-the-knee footwear that fit wider calves.
One of the most frustrating feelings is shopping around for cute boots only to try them on and realize they don’t fit. And sure, wide calf boots do indeed exist, but only come in black, have a super low or nonexistent heel or don’t offer different textures (suede is great, but other fabrics exist!).
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The demand for more variety in over-the-knee, wide-calf boots is present; a simple Twitter search proves that. But Marie Leggette, founder and editor-in-chief of The Curvy Fashionista, says there have been major changes in the past five to 10 years.
“You have more plus-size retailers and brands adding boots to their collection or their offerings. You now also have mainstream retailers bringing in collections that are exclusive to their site,” Leggette said. “For example, Nordstrom and Macy’s have their in-house brands that also do wide-calf boot options. You’re starting to see change and inclusion, especially in colors outside of black.”
Left to Right: Gotham, Joe Scarnici, Robert Kamau
Precious Lee, Lizzo and Ashley Graham sporting over-the-knee boots.
Leggette went on to say the best way to approach boot shopping for wider calves is to first measure your calves to see how many inches the boot’s circumference needs to be. While many shoe brands’ wide-calf boot selections typically start at 16 inches, it’s important to note that boot shopping is definitely not “one size fits all.”
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“While we now have more wide calf options, we don’t have the range of calf width sizes. It’s like, is the circumference really 16 inches? Because that’s not technically a wide calf. My calf size is 17 [inches] and I’m what they would call a ‘small fat,’ so it’s really going to be important that there’s more clarifying info about the sizing and measurements,” she said.
To measure your calves for a smoother footwear buying experience, grab your nearest tape measurer and get the circumference of your calf at its widest part, and round it to the closest centimeter. For better accuracy, do this for both calves, as it’s common and totally normal for one to be slightly bigger than the other.
“Know your calf width size because when you know that, and as certain brands are starting to be more aware and list the circumferences, you will be prepared and you will know ahead of time if it’s going to work for you,” she said.
Whether you’re looking to stock up on your fall over-the-knee boots or already thinking about your winter wardrobe, check out our roundup of wide calf options below.
HuffPost may receive a share from purchases made via links on this page. Every item is independently selected by the HuffPost Shopping team. Prices and availability are subject to change.
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Torrid
A stretchy satin extra wide calf over-the-knee boot
Holiday parties are on the horizon and this satin boot is the perfect footwear accessory to compliment your outfits. It comes in a chic berry color and features a 3-inch stiletto heel. Calf circumferences depend on your shoe size and go up to 18.6 inches. Sizes are available in 6-13.
This stylish boot has an extra wide width option that is two inches larger in circumference than Torrid's standard wide calf boots and provides extra room around your feet too. It even has an extra cushioned footbed so you're comfortable while you strut around all day. Calf circumferences depend on your shoe size and go up to 20.6 inches. The boot is available in sizes 6-13.
Add a splash of color to your wardrobe with these red hot stiletto boots. They have a calf circumference of 17 inches and a pointed toe. They come in sizes 6-12 and in other styles such as black suede, black faux leather and taupe suede.
On Wednesdays, you should wear pink. Specifically, these pink neoprene boots that are ridiculously cute. They feature a 3.35-inch stiletto heel, pointed toe and side zipper. The leg opening circumference is 21.26. Sizes are available in 7-13 and other color options include black and red.
If you love to live on the wild side, these allover animal print boots deserve a spot in your shoe collection. They come in an extra wide calf width. Calf circumferences depend on your shoe size and go up to 19.10 inches. Sizes range from 6-13.
With a calf circumference ranging from 14.5 inches to 18.25 inches depending on the size you get, this soft, stretchy boot will give you all the cozy vibes on crisp fall days. It comes in blue, chestnut brown, black, gray and tan. Sizes range from 6-11.
Lug sole is the perfect shoe style to wear during the winter and fall and these boots are right on trend. They feature a 14-inch calf circumference, a side zipper and come in taupe and black. Sizes range from 6-12.
This slouchy suede boot comes with a calf circumference of approximately 19 inches. Sizes range from 6-12 and color options include burgundy, gray, black, tan and taupe. Pair it with your favorite midi skirt or dress.
Calf circumference on this suede block heel boot ranges from just under 17 inches to nearly 20 inches, depending on shoe size, and comes in black and cognac.
