Photo: Brand X Pictures/Brand X Pictures/Getty Images
Boots are a staple type of footwear for every girl's closet. Even if you live in sunny California, or someplace else that gets more sun than snow, it's still always good to have at least a single pair of boots in your closet. The right boots can transform an outfit, but if you're shorter, the wrong pair can take length off your legs -- something you definitely don't need.
Pointed-Toe
A pair of pointed-toe boots really helps to elongate short legs. Cowboy, stretch, zipper-up -- any style works as long as it's got the pointy toe. The pointed toe makes your feet appear longer, slenderer and creates a long, slim leg line. Wear the boots over top of a tight-fitting pair of pants, or underneath if the pants are longer. To really maximize the length of your legs, wear pants over your boots -- dark-colored pants slim and elongate more than a lighter-colored pair -- with the pants falling straight from the widest part of your hips and hitting at mid-heel.
Ankle Boots
Ankle boots are a prime style of boots for shorter gals. The ankle boot hits just around ankle-level, so most of your legs aren't covered up, which would only make them appear even shorter. You have lots of options with ankle boots; choose a flat-soled version for casual, daily wear, or a high-heeled faux leather or buckled pair for an evening out.
Peep-Toe
A pair of peep-toe boots is a bit more unusual compared to other styles, but it's a really ideal choice if you're short and want to make your legs look long and lean. Opt for a pair that hits between the ankle and mid-calf to avoid taking away any of the length of your legs. With your toes peeking through at the front of the boots, your feet aren't closed off, so your leg line is extended instead of your boots creating a blocking effect on your legs.
Knee-High
You can rock a pair of knee-high boots even if you're a shorter girl. Avoid any loose-fitting, slouchy boots, opting for a tight-fitting, dark-colored pair instead. The snug fit shows off the shape of your legs instead of creating a baggy effect you'll lose yourself in, while the dark color slims your legs and creates the illusion of a longer leg line. Wear your boots over a pair of skinny jeans or leggings; over a loose-fitting pair of pants will create a sloppy, baggy look.
