How to Wear Duck Boots

Co-authored by Hannah Madden

Last Updated: December 15, 2022 References

Duck boots, or bean boots, are many people’s go-to shoes for the winter time. These sturdy, waterproof shoes with rubber on the bottom and leather on top are perfect for playing in the snow or splashing around in puddles. Try pairing your duck boots with a variety of pieces from your closet to look great every time you head out the door!

1

Slim fitting bottoms

The large boots look great contrasted with tight pants. Try skinny jeans, leggings, or slim-fitting trousers for a stylish look that can’t be beat.^{[1]
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- Tuck your pants into your boots for a seamless silhouette.
- This is a great way to create an everyday casual look.
- Make this look more feminine with a flowy blouse on top.

2

Bootcut trousers or jeans

The slouchy cut of your pants pairs well with the structured boots. Pull your trousers or jeans over the top of the boots to let them slouch over the laces.^{[2]
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- If you don’t want to cover your boots entirely, roll up your pants a few times so they sit above your boots.
- This is a great way to disguise the look of your boots a little bit so they don’t overtake your entire outfit.
- Create a streetwear look with a puffy winter coat on top.

3

Leggings and a skirt

It might be a little too cold to bare your legs in the winter time. Instead, use a pair of thick leggings to stay warm, then throw a skirt or a dress on top for a sweet and simple outfit.^{[3]
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- Try wearing a plaid skirt with a plain top for a classic fall / winter look.
- Or, go monochromatic by matching black leggings with a black dress and your boots.
- If you want to make this look a little edgier, pair it with a leather jacket.
- Denim skirts are another great option for wearing with duck boots.

4

Tops that match your boots

Duck boots usually have a few different colors you can play with. Try matching your shirt, coat, or blazer to a color on your shoes for an effortlessly chic outfit everytime.^{[4]
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- For example, if your duck boots are brown, you could pair your look with a camel or tan overcoat.
- Or, if your duck boots are black, you could throw on a black vest or winter coat.

5

Monochromatic outfit

It’s an easy way to put together a chic look without much effort. Throw on some black jeans, a black top, and a black coat, then add your boots for the perfect outfit.^{[5]
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- This even works well if your boots are black! They’ll look cohesive and your entire outfit will match.
- If you’re going for a winter wonderland outfit, try wearing all white instead.
- Add some color with necklaces, bracelets, or earrings.

6

Oversized top

Duck boots are perfect for wintertime, and so are cozy sweaters and coats. Pair your duck boots with a long flannel, an oversized cardigan, or a puffy winter coat for the perfect chilly day look.^{[6]
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- Long scarves and beanies also look great with duck boots (and they’ll help keep you warm).
- If you aren’t a fan of the oversized look, put on a form-fitting top underneath your layers and take off your outer layers once you get indoors.

7

Flannels and knitwear

These waterproof boots are most often seen during fall and winter. Stick to that theme by wearing plaid, flannel, sweaters, cardigans, scarves, and vests.^{[7]
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- You could also try sticking to fall colors, like red, burgundy, dark green, black, and tan.
- Wool is also a super cozy fabric that looks great paired with duck boots.

8

Professional blazer

You can take your duck boots to work with the right outerwear. Throw on a pair of trousers and your duck boots, then add a button-down and a blazer on top.^{[8]
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- If your workplace is more laidback, try dark wash jeans instead of trousers.
- You can accessorize with a watch or a few bracelets so you don’t overwhelm your outfit.
- Try a fashion-forward outfit with a full pant suit and duck boots.

9

Cozy socks

Not only will they keep you warm, socks can tie your whole look together. Pull a pair of thick socks on over skinny jeans or leggings, then let them peek out of the top of your boots for an accent color.^{[9]
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- Wool socks are perfect for the winter since they dry quickly and stay super warm.
- You could also try leg warmers if you want a larger pop of color.
- In summer, lose those thick socks! Instead, swap them out for thin, cotton socks and your duck boots.

10

Large handbags and hats

If your boots feel a little plain, you can remedy that with your accessories. Go for big handbags, backpacks, hats, or scarves to add a fun accent to your outfit.^{[10]
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- Keep your accessories muted for a cohesive look, or add bold and bright colors to your outfit with patterned ones.
- This is a great way to break up a monochromatic outfit.