Belle,

I recently tried on a pair of black ankle booties at Nordstrom and was desperate to buy them until I saw the $450 price tag.  I want to up my shoe game with a pair of boots for work, can you help me find a high-heeled pair that costs less than $175?  I’d also like the heel height to be four inches or less.

Happy Thanksgiving! Shyla

I’ve warmed up to ankle boots since the early days of the blog, mostly because the styles have improved.  They’re not flattering on everyone, but there are so many styles now, that many women can find a pair that works for them.

Azucena Suede Bootie ($190) // Mango Elasticated Ankle Boot ($130) // Aldo Vacha Boot ($100)

The boot on the left is a bit more than you wanted to spend, but I chose it because it has the split vamp.  If you’re looking for a boot and you can’t find one that doesn’t make your legs look stubby, try to find one with an open front.  It lengthens the leg by showing a bit of skin.  I also found these Steve Madden Wedge Booties and these leather Bandolino Meg boots.

Also, it may seem counterintuitive, but for some women, a boot that climbs higher on the leg can actually make the legs look longer.  This is especially true if the boots match the color of your tights.  How does this happen?  Cutting off right at the ankle may divide the leg in a bad place, but moving just an inch or two higher improves the look.  I especially like this Zara ankle boots with a slight rise on the front, or these leather Zara boots with a more casual look.

As for the other two pairs, these are the basic styles you will see in stores, an elastic ankle boot with a pointed toe and a true “bootie” style that cuts below the ankle.  For my money I would choose the style in the middle as the one on the far right can look a bit like hooves on some women.  I also like these Lacey Leather Booties from Ann Taylor, and I’ve heard that they’re pretty comfortable.

If ankle boot is just not in your repertoire, try a high-heeled tall boot.  I bought these Loeffler Randall Viola boots on sale for $417, and even with the high price tag, they will be worth every penny in cost per wear.  If you need something less expensive, try these Sam Edelman Mazie boots or these Land’s End Allaire boots.