Every thick-thighed girl has been there: besotted by a promising pair of knee-high boots, only to find that they fall short. If you’ve landed here, you’ve probably faced as many wide-calf conundrums as I have – and as a size-inclusive fashion seeker, there have been a lot.
But for all the pairs that have failed to zip up, been constrictively snug or pooled above the ankle in an unflattering, unintentional slouch, a select few have stood above the rest. These wide-calf boots have become a staple in my wardrobe all year round, adding comfortable coverage to short-hemmed summer dresses and helping me step out in rainier weather in style.
Top wide-calf boots, tried and tested:
Duo Boots
Duo’s Boots are top of the range as far as size-inclusive styles are concerned. Constructed exclusively in fine leathers and suede, they span western, riding, pointed and biker boots, offering trending silhouettes in enduring designs. Take it from me – you will appreciate the memory foam insoles and subtle elasticated lining after a long day of being on your feet. The Freya stiletto, available in burgundy croc as well as a stylish snake print, has become a firm favourite.
Dune Boots
Dune’s selection of boots have been longstanding staples in my wardrobe – they’re cut in the kind of leather that ages like fine wine, plus they take well to a boot stretcher if they’re tight at first. I swear by a burnished bronze pair that are a gorgeous bottom layer to tonal autumn ensembles, with a rounded toe and wide construction that curvy girls will love.
Empty Behaviour
Wader-style boots are what I like to call accidentally inclusive – every pair I’ve tried has enveloped my curvy calves by virtue of their oversized design. These football-cleats-cum-ballet-boots from indie brand Empty Behaviour are insanely comfortable and a cool style statement on even the blandest of winter outfits.
High-street finds
As is often the case, there are more size-inclusive boots on the high street than you’ll find in the luxury realm, though you might have to compromise on premium finishes and long-wearing fabrics. Regardless, there are some great affordable options to be found, such as these Asos ’70s-style brown suede pull-ons and Simply Be’s chunky biker designs.
Marks & Spencer
You’ll get a lot of wear out of these classic riding boots, which are notoriously elusive in store and often sold out on the M&S site. Though they are faux leather, they bear the grain of a fabric far more expensive and offer wider footbed versions too – you can see why this style is so hard to keep in stock. I wore my last pair into the ground because they go with just about everything, and unlike leather or suede, do alright in a downpour. As affordable finds go, it’s a solid winter boot.
Woods by Jordyn Rev
“Too often, women with fuller figures don’t see themselves reflected in luxury fashion,” says curve model Jordyn Woods. “With this collection, I wanted to create boots that not only feel beautiful and current but also truly fit; empowering women to walk confidently, no matter their size. For me, inclusivity isn’t a trend, it’s the standard.” Indeed, her midi boots were a confidence booster the moment I put them on. The illusion stiletto and show-stopping silhouette are standouts of this design: they offer stable footing for the fuller frame and reel in endless compliments.
Nobody’s Child
Kate Middleton favourite Nobody’s Child recently ventured into the shoe department, and while its boots aren’t explicitly wide fit, there are a fair few styles that work. The elasticated shaft on this riding pair grants just enough give to stretch over chunkier calves.
Vince Camuto
If only sky high thigh-highs will do, look to Vince Camuto’s teetering over-the-knee boots. The shipping is a pretty penny, but no shoe this side of the pond has managed to stay better on my thick thighs. They’re the perfect partner to a lace slip or miniskirt.
