If you’ve just bought your little one their first pair of desert boots and are wondering how to make the most of them, you’ve come to the right place. Here at Start-Rite, as well as being children’s footwear experts, we also know a thing or two about kids’ fashion!
The good news is, when it comes to styling classics like desert boots, putting a smart, yet comfortable outfit together is a piece of cake. From everyday playtime outfits to special occasion looks, in this guide we outline the best ways to style desert boots so your child can step out in comfort and confidence, whatever the day brings. We also answer some of the most common queries when it comes to putting together your child’s outfit with this timeless boot.
Absolutely! Combining desert boots with shorts can be a great idea for those in-between seasons when it’s too warm for full trousers but you still want your child to wear something smarter than trainers. Overall, the good news is desert boots are incredibly versatile and can be paired with almost any outfit.
As is the case when putting together any outfit for your child, the key is to try and balance comfort and style. As discussed above, with their structured shape and timeless design, desert boots have the ability to make any outfit look a little more put-together, while still being soft and flexible enough for all-day wear.
With this in mind, for girls, desert boots can look great with tailored shorts or even a casual playsuit, for example. Similarly, it’s common for boys to be dressed in smart chino-style shorts and desert boots for that neat, classic look during the summer months. If you’re going for a relaxed, everyday look for your little boy or girl, try pairing suede desert boots with cotton or denim shorts and a simple T-shirt.
Put simply - yes. Desert boots don’t only look great with trousers, jeans and shorts - they can also look just as lovely paired with dresses and skirts too. In fact, this combination can be a great way to strike the perfect balance between smart and casual, ensuring your kids stay comfortable while still looking stylish.
For everyday wear, you could pair soft suede desert boots with a simple cotton dress. When the weather turns cooler, think about adding a pair of cosy tights or leggings and a cardigan or jumper to make your child’s trendy outfit season-ready. The beauty of desert boots is that they work just as well with layers as they do with lighter summer styles.
For smarter occasions, a pair in a neutral colour such as navy or taupe can look great with a patterned skirt or a classic dress. If your child prefers something a little bit different, a pair of our leopard print desert boots add a fun twist to denim shorts and a lightweight blouse for example, giving structure to the outfit while keeping feet protected and comfortable.
The fact that desert boots are so versatile makes choosing the right socks for your child’s outfit a little more important than you might think. The right socks should not only keep little feet comfortable but also help complete the look of an outfit. Because desert boots rise slightly above the ankle, it’s best to avoid trainer socks or no-show socks for kids - they can slip down or rub, causing blisters. Instead, go for crew-length or ankle socks that sit neatly above the boot line and provide a soft, cosy layer.
For everyday casual outfits, breathable cotton socks are perfect. They keep little feet cool during school or playtime and pair well with shorts, skirts or trousers. Neutral colours like beige, white or grey work well with taupe or leopard-print boots, keeping the look clean and coordinated.
When it’s colder, thicker knit or wool-blend long socks or tights add warmth while still looking stylish, especially when layered under dresses or long trousers. And for formal occasions, go for finer socks in muted tones to keep the outfit looking polished. Think soft greys or creams paired with tailored trousers or dresses.
Overall, classic desert boots can be a year-round wardrobe staple for kids - stylish, comfortable and surprisingly versatile. Whether your child is wearing them with shorts, skirts, dresses or trousers, they can instantly make any outfit look a little smarter while still being perfect for play and everyday adventures.
Here at Start-Rite, our desert boots are designed with comfort, support and healthy foot development in mind. So, wherever they’re headed, your little ones can step out in style - and in boots made for walking!
