Keep those cowboy boots out for summer

May 2, 5:15 PMHouston Fashion Tips ExaminerRenae Virata

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Before you banish those fabulous cowboy boots you meant to wear all winter and spring to the back of your closet, consider giving them another chance before the hot summer sets in for good. With all the events cropping up starting a season of outdoor fun, a sleek pair of Luccheses or Justins will add that funky element to any outfit and get you some good use out of your kickers.

I spent some time at downtown’s Leon’s Lounge, the oldest bar in Houston, and (what luck!) spotted some stylish regulars on the patio that definitely knew how to rock their boots despite the heat.  Check out how Stephanie (white dress), Kristen (coral dress), and Ashley (jeans) made it totally work.

What to wear

The great thing about this season is the wide range of silhouettes, colors, and prints at our disposal.  The possibilities with even just one pair of boots are endless – just use your imagination!  Here we have a pair of slouchy boots in a warm brown shade that will easily take you from summer to fall and that would work with almost any color palette and occasion. 

   Click on the picture to see where to buy.

·       Dresses - For warmer weather, opt for a shorter length dress either mid-thigh or just below the knee in a light cotton woven or knit.  Try to keep the silhouette clean and simple.  And don't be afraid to go bright and / or bold - that is one of the great things about living in Houston all that bright sunshine we get.  

·    Skirts - Pending how confident you are about baring your legs, another cute option is a short skirt.  Here we feature a light wash denim mini with a flowy white cotton blouse – think St. Thomas or St. Lucia – to keep the casual feel.  You can also go with a more tailored button-down cotton shirt or a soft knit tee.  Keep legs bare to keep the look summery and to keep you cool!

·       Jeans – Tuck them in or leave 'em out.  If you tuck your jeans into your boots, make sure they are skinny enough to fit inside and even have a little stretch to anchor them - don’t even think about stuffing your boot- or even straight-leg jeans into your boots!  Wear them with a slouchier, belted plaid shirt; a punky striped tee; a knit tank with a belt or long necklaces; last winter's vest, or a tailored button-down with the tails out to change up your look.  

Cowboy boot do’s and don’ts

·       DO wear them with a lightweight sock.  If you tuck in your jeans, you can get away with athletic or short socks.  Make sure if you wear longer ones that they don’t peek over your boots.

·       DO try to break them in if they are new.  There are a few tricks out there where you might risk ruining your boot so your best best is to use a shoe tree, stuff the shoes with newspapers, or protect your feet during the first few wearing to prevent blisters on your heels, ankles, or toes.

·       DON’T wear them with shorts.   Unless you are amongst friends, going to a theme party, or just don’t care, keep your look modern with skirts, dresses, or jeans.

·       DON’T wear cowboy boots with any hint of winter (shearling, furry lining, etc.).  The point is to maintain the cool look of the boots while keeping as cool as possible.

·       DO visit vintage and second-hand stores for a great deal on boots that are already broken in for you!  Try Retropolis (www.myspace.com/retropolishouston) on 19^th Street in the Heights or take a walk down Westheimer in Montrose and stop into places like Taxi and Buffalo Exchange.