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Fashion glossary

Slouchy boots: what are they and what to wear them with

Emily Thompson 3 min read

What are slouchy boots?

Slouchy Slouchy boots are women's footwear (primarily boots or ankle boots) with a soft, wide shaft that is intentionally gathered into voluminous folds or accordion-like shapes. When defining the term and explaining what slouchy boots are, stylists primarily point to the lack of a rigid, form-forming frame. The name of the style is derived from the English verb "slouchy" (slouchy). slouch , which translates as "to hang down," "to droop," or "to slouch."

Read also our full guide: Types of Women's Shoes: Why the Old Rules Don't Work
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Suede slouchy boots with signature soft folds on the shaft and a stable block heel.

Historically, this style gained widespread popularity in the 1980s. Since then, accordion boots have repeatedly returned to the list of current trends, serving as a staple of boho style and relaxed urban chic.

Distinctive features

To create a beautiful and natural drape, slouches are made using only soft, pliable materials. Designers most often choose fine genuine leather, faux leather, stretchy suede, or velour.

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High leather slouches in an urban look with skinny jeans and an oversized jacket.

The shaft is designed for a loose fit. It is cut significantly wider than the calf and falls freely under its own weight, creating casual creases at the ankle and shin. The accordion effect is used on shoes with various types of lasts. Brands' collections feature slouches with high, thin stiletto heels, chunky, stable heels, flat soles, or hidden wedges.

What to combine with

A trendy style is to pair slouches with flowing dresses or midi skirts. In these outfits, the hem of the dress should slightly overlap the top of the boots, leaving no exposed leather between the top of the shoe and the fabric.

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Short slouchy ankle boots made of soft beige suede with flat soles.

The narrow bottom also complements these shoes harmoniously. Skinny jeans, thick leggings, or fitted trousers are tucked into the voluminous shaft, highlighting the contrast between the narrow silhouette of the legs and the wide boots.

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Pair burgundy slouchy boots with a floral print midi dress.

Wide, pleated boots visually add weight to the lower half of the figure. This helps balance out the miniskirt's length, making looks with short skirts, jacket dresses, or shorts in thick fabric less revealing. Structured outerwear complements the voluminous boots: classic straight coats, loose trench coats, and long jackets with accentuated shoulders.

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About the author

E
Emily Thompson

Style coach and capsule wardrobe expert. Uses technology and data to optimize wardrobes. Helps busy women dress stylishly in minimal time through smart planning.

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