18 DIY Ways To Boost Your Boots

Why should flats, sandals, and heels get all the DIY shoe love? Especially since we’re gushing over beautiful fall boots right now. If you’re ready to upgrade from last year’s styles or just looking for a savvy way to switch things up boot-wise, check out these 18 awesome ways to take your boots to the next level.

1. Boot Scarf: This is definitely a boot DIY that you could do on the fly, since it requires materials that you probably have laying around your pad (scrap fabric, a loose button, and a safety pin)! As you can see, it really gives these equestrian-style boots romantic flair. (via Craft Snob)

2. Nasty Gal Inspired Cut Out Boots: If you can’t get enough of the style on Nasty Gal, then these DIY boots are seriously up your alley. Just create your own pattern on a pair of distressed combat boots and xacto-knife away to get this edgy, laser-cut look. (via All The Good Girls Go To Heaven)

3. Hoodie Boots: This is a shoe hack that we can get behind: turning an old hoodie into boots! Not only is this pair super comfy, but you’ll actually want to leave the house wearing them. (via Little House of Rena)

4. Cutoff Cowboy Boots: Even though we’ve shown you 10 ways to rock cowboy boots like a champ, it’s fun to make them over with an urban edge. Case in point: cowboy booties! They’re super on-trend for fall, and you won’t believe how easy they are to make yourself. (via Julia’s Poppies Design)

5. Belted Cowboy Boots: Here’s another way to amp up your cowboy boots boho-style—and they’re also a cinch to make. Layers upon layers of belts give these boots color and a super eclectic feel. (via Brit + Co.)

6. Glitter Ankle Boots: We’re dazzled by this glitter-filled DIY that makes an old pair of boots totally runway-worthy. Sparkling glitter backs make this one of our favorite DIY statement shoes of all time. (via Pretty Shiny Sparkly)

7. Gold Tip Combat Boots: Don’t just go gold on the back of your boots! Show your toes some love with this gold tip boot DIY. Liquid gilding adds a faux-metallic shine that is ultra glam. (via Cut Out + Keep)

8. Leather Over The Knee Boots: To make this totally smokin’ pair of boots, you’ll need an old leather pencil skirt, some basic sewing skills, and a ton of confidence! You don’t have to be a Hollywood starlet to rock this look—just check out all the ways this blogger styled this sky-high pair. (via …love Maegan)

9. Color Blocked Shoe DIY: Casual ankle boots get a chic makeover with color blocks of black and gold. Put a Brit + Co twist on this DIY by making the contrast color more vibrant, like yellow or seafoam green. (via A Beautiful Mess)

10. Easy Boot Straps: A twisted leather braid and metal ring make a pair of boots look effortlessly cool. We’re nuts about the dangling chain detail that drapes around the heel. (via Cut Out + Keep)

11. Western Steel Toe Boots: These moto boots get a stunning southwestern makeover with this silver tipped DIY. The tiered, geometric shape on the toes looks incredibly sharp. (via Swellmayde)

12. Gold Color Block Booties: How about taking a vertical approach to the gold dipped trend? Like this blogger says, it’s a great way to break up an all-black outfit. (via I Spy DIY)

13. Ribbon Wellies: Give yourself something to smile about on rainy days by dressing up your waterproof wellies. We laced up our pair with some matching ribbon, but you could also use neon cord or tasseled laces. (via Brit + Co.)

14. Lace and Feather Boots: We love the super girly take on this boho boot makeover. Lace and feathers give these suede boots a breath of fresh air that’s perfectly paired with a classy envelope skirt or a casual pair of jeans. (via She Knows)

15. Floral Boots DIY: Add your favorite textile to a pair of boots with this completely customizable DIY. From this pretty floral print to solid color panels and even chevron stripes, the upcycling possibilities are pretty much endless! (via A Beautiful Mess)

16. Shoe Boot: A pair of worn out mid-rise boots team up with some serious pumps to create the ever trendy shoe boot (aka shoot). We bet you’ll be the first on the block to rock this pair of slouchy hybrids. (via …love Maegan)

17. Stud Boots: Sure these studded boots look a bit scary at first. But style these suckers right and you’ll have a more versatile statement shoe than you may have thought. Just check out how this blogger paired ‘em with white tights and a full, flowy skirt to tone down their edge. (via Tiny Toadstool)

18. Moccasin Bootie DIY: We’ll end this roundup with one more southwestern-themed boot-over, which is what we’re now calling a boot makeover. Diamond and starburst leather cutouts amp up these amazing moccasin ankle booties that we’d rock with a pair of leggings and a billowy blouse. (via Minnetonka)

Which pair of DIY boots is your favorite? Have you ever tackled tricking out your own pair? Tell us all about it in the comments below!

The average calf circumference for women is 15 inches – a fact that a lot of brands making trendy tall boots completely ignore.

My calves measure 16 inches around, meaning fitting comfortably into the boots I would give an arm and leg for (ahem, the famed Frye Campus boots and these sleek Sam Edelman steppers, 14 and 15 inches, respectively) will never be a reality.

Meredith Holser

As a gal with a little more meat and muscle on her bones, this has always been a problem for me. It’s infuriating, but it feels even more isolating. I can’t always wear the same styles that smaller women do, and even if I do find similar boot designs fashioned for wide calves, they look noticeably cheap or simply don’t check all the boxes in terms of my desired look.

I grew tired of saving all the “perfect” tall boot outfit inspo pics to my Pinterest board only to find that the boots in question had way too small of calf sizes, so I did what I always do when I shop for size-specific pieces: I took to Reddit.

Meredith Holser

I primarily consulted r/femalefashionadvice, r/plussize, and r/ausfemalefashion to see what people like me are saying about wide calf boots. The frustrations with finding good-looking, comfy tall boots was pretty similar across all three subreddits. As one passionate user put it:

“Even at a size 6, I have never been able to just buy any old pair of boots and have them fit. It is interesting to me how we've made great progress the past several years in regards to body inclusivity, yet somehow there seems to be a huge lack of sizing in regards to tall boots… It makes me so sad to see these beautiful boots everyone else gets to wear, slouchy, over the knee, western inspired, leopard/snake print, etc. Nothing like that comes in wide calf.”

Luckily, Redditors across all three threads suggested a handful of brands that actually offer cute wide calf boots with extended sizing. I had never heard of a few of them, but after scrolling through their sites, it felt like I struck gold.

The top-recommended brands for wide calf boots:

  • Penningtons
  • Børn
  • DuoBoots
  • Franco Sarto
  • Sam Edelman
  • Billini
If you, like me, have been searching endlessly for stylish tall boots (but have larger-than-average calves), consider your search over. Scroll on for the best wide calf boots that will fit like a dream.

Franco Sarto

Franco Sarto Bowman Wide Calf Knee High Boots

You're meaning to tell me these chic boots can really accomodate my calves?! The deep red color already had me sold, but that 15.75-inch calf circumference made this style so much better. They also come in a smooth brown color and a foxy faux-snake pattern, if those speak to your personal style more.

Børn

Børn Hayden Extended Calf Boots

The suede leather construction of these boots honestly rivals that of the beloved Campus boot, but their fit is much more roomy, boasting a 16.5-inch calf circumference. These zippered boots also have a playful lace-up detail on the back that's utterly unique.

Penningtons

Penningtons Extra Wide Width Black Tall Heeled Boots with Harness Straps

The calf circumference on these bad boys starts at around 17 inches for shoe size 6, and tops out around 19 inches for shoe size 12. I can't get enough of these moto-style boots and I love that they have the signature harness with silver hardware around the base that other similar boots do.

DuoBoots

DuoBoots Saffron Knee High Boots

The fact that you can choose the calf sizing yourself when purchasing these Western-esque boots is ahh-mazing. The options start at 13 inches and go up to 20 inches to hold your beautiful legs without any fuss.

Billini

Billini Granger Extended Curve Boots

From all the wide calf boot brands suggested on the Reddit threads I scrolled through, Billini has to be my favorite. They state that these adorable camel-colored boots can fit calf sizes from about 18.11 to 21.42 inches, and while they do have an elastic panel on the sides to stretch even further, I think it's discreet enough that it doesn't distract from the overall look. Score!

DSW

Baretraps Thalia Wide Calf Boots

A very similar style to my wishlist Sam Edelman boots, this black pair actually has a 16.5-inch calf circumference that'll fit my legs to a tee. The block heel is the perfect shape and height, plus the toe isn't overly pointed (I don't necessarily care for pointy toes).

Sam Edelman

Sam Edelman James Wide Calf Western Boots

Finding cowboy boots with wide calves can be a big challenge – but no more! These reddish-brown boots have a 16-inch calf circumference so you can confidently rock any and all Western looks.

Billini

Billini Oshea Curve Boots

Immediately yes. These broader-fit boots are everything you need to make a statement with your shoes. They're definitely going on my wishlist! The calf circumferences for this style start at 16 inches and go up to 19 inches based on your shoe size.

DSW

Vince Camuto Seshon Extra Wide Calf Boots

With a 18-inch calf circumference, you won't have to worry about squeezing into these tall boots. I adore the timeless squared toe and wide block heel on these!

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

The only thing better than spending two hours with your favorite fictional characters? Spending 7 hours with them! Cruel Intentions (you know, the 1999 classic starring Reese Witherspoon, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Ryan Phillippe, and Selma Blair) is turning 25 this year, and Prime Video is releasing a brand new TV show inspired by the movie. And the series has a fresh twist that will keep even the most dedicated Cruel Intentions fan on their toes. Here's everything you need to know about the show!

  • The Cruel Intentions TV show, inspired by the 1999 film, is coming to Prime Video.
  • The cast includes Sarah Catherine Hook & Zac Burgess. While Selma Blair isn't listed, "maybe there will be a cameo."
  • The series premieres on Prime Video this November.

    Where can I watch Cruel Intentions TV show?

    Cruel Intentions Release Date

    All eight episodes of Cruel Intentions drop on Prime Video November 21, 2024. That means you can watch them all in one sitting (and then watch them again...and again) or you can spread them out over Thanksgiving week. Is there anything better than watching a new TV show with a cranberry cocktail? I think not.

    Did they remake Cruel Intentions?

    Jasper Savage/Prime Video

    Cruel Intentions Plot

    Yes, the Cruel Intentions TV show is a remake of the 1999 movie! This new adaptation takes place at a prestigious college in Washington, D.C. Step-siblings Caroline Merteuil and Lucien Belmont are determined to stay on top of the food chain — especially after a dangerous frat hazing threatens to eliminate the school's Greek Life. The best way to keep the sororities and fraternities on campus? Seduce the most unexpected sorority sister: Vice President's daughter Annie Grover.

    Who's in Cruel Intentions?

    Jasper Savage/Prime Video

    Cruel Intentions Cast

    Prime Video's new Cruel Intentions is full of standout actors, and I can't wait to see their moment in the spotlight! The cast includes Sarah Catherine Hook as Caroline Merteuil, Zac Burgess as Lucien Belmont, Savannah Lee Smith as Annie Grover, Sara Silva as Cece Carroway, John Harlan Kim as Blaise Powell, Khobe Clarke as Scott Russell, Sean Patrick Thomas as Professor Hank Chadwick, and Brooke Lena Johnson as Beatrice Worth.

    The original Cruel Intentions movie stars Sarah Michelle Gellar, Ryan Phillippe, Reese Witherspoon, and Selma Blair. While there's no word on whether any of the OG cast will return, I'd love nothing more than to see Reese make a cameo! Selma told Variety on October 24 that even though she hadn't been asked to join the series, she'd love to make an appearance. "Maybe there will be a cameo or something," she says. "I’m excited to see it.”

    Let us know on Instagram if you want to see Reese Witherspoon or Selma Blair appear in the Cruel Intentions TV show, and check out the other November TV shows you absolutely can't miss.

    Call us crazy, but we're already thinking about all the best Target winter shoes we can find. It's not that we're being hasty, but it feels like fall isn't ready to commit yet, and we just LOVE a cold weather outfit! We can always count on the months of December-March to give us the chilly temps we're looking for though! We can also rely on Target to give us affordable fashion that makes our outfits look as good as our Pinterest boards! Lucky for you, we've found 17 stylish shoes to shop right now — including mules, boots, and Mary Janes because we know you need options. 😘

    Target

    Stemon Three Tone Block Heel Boots

    Post-fall shoe haul, it's likely you already have some classic black booties — and that's where these babies come in! I absolutely love this tri-toned pair of block heels to add a dash of fun to any look. The metallic accents are super on-trend right now, and the shiny vibes are perfect for these more twinkly months. They also come in a black variation, if you're looking for something different!

    Target

    Wheedle Croc High Heeled Calf Boots

    We've made it explicitly known that red is our color, through and through. So obviously I had to add these tall boots to the roundup! This pair is sexy and chic, elevating your style to the next level with the croc-embossed faux leather. Not feeling the red? You can choose from two other colors — plus, they're on sale for $59!

    Target

    Women's Shelby Slingback Ballet Flats with Memory Foam Insole

    Now these? These are absolutely darling! Ballet flats are back and truly better than ever right now — as exhibited by this bow-embellished pair from Target. The slight shimmer adds just enough sparkle without being too much, and the bow could go with everything from a pair of jeans and a sweater to your fave holiday look! These $35 shoes also come in red if you're feeling bold!

    Target

    Women's Taylor Jet Studded Kitten Heel Ankle Boots with Memory Foam Insole

    IDK how to explain it, but I just know Emily would slay these in Paris. She'd likely dress them in an unexpected way — I'm envisioning sweats and a beret? IDK? — and I'd immediately try to recreate the look. And while studs can make a statement, these are also just neutral enough that you can get away with a more subdued style as well. At $43, these are a total steal!

    Target

    Struter Embroidered Platform Fur Classic Slip-On

    Uggs duuuupe! These platform slip-ons are perfect for those days when you're out and about with your Starbucks in one hand, pushing the Target cart with the other. These also come in three other colors, and they're currently on sale for $42

    Target

    Harness Buckle Ankle Boots

    Some days require an edgier look that's even...dare I say, borderline grunge? It's our favorite way to dress when we're in a mellow mood, so if this sounds like you, slip on these cute ankle boots. The round, closed toe and cushioned footbed make them way more comfortable than they look.

    Target

    Women's Elsa Mary Jane Ballet Flats

    Metallics are perfect for the holiday season — and throughout the rest of winter, for that matter. These are great for the days you have to double up on a day at the office and make it to the holiday party by 7. Plus, at just $30, what more could you ask for?!

    Target

    Ball Heel Stretch Ankle Boots

    Keep it stylish with these glam boots! They heel height is only 2.25 inches, so the soles of your feet won't be under a ton of pressure as you strut through town. You get all the fun of a unique look without all the typical struggle of a unique shoe.

    Target

    Slip On Mule Flats With Memory Foam Insole

    These flats are so gaudy, but we're mesmerized by them. They take studs to the next level — and yes, I'm thinking about Emily in Parisagain. The round closed upper won't crush your precious toes, while the backless feature will make you happy as you pad around Target looking for new things to buy.

    Target

    Women's Pippa Chunky Heel Ankle Boots

    Love the first pair I shared, but wanna commit to the all-metallic vibe? These booties are here for you. At only $40, you'll shine bright like Eve from Life-Size. And with that block heel, you'll definitely be able to shine far while you're at it.

    Target

    Women's Sage Slide Slippers

    You obviously need plenty of shoes to strut your stuff around the town, but you also deserve a little something chic for the house! These stylish slippers are only $15, so you can comfortably make your way from the couch to the tea kettle — and look cute while you do it!

    Target

    Ivette Tru Comfort Foam Pull On Boots

    Normally we'd save a pair of boots like this for apple mazes and pumpkin patches, but there's no rule against wearing them during winter. They're a universal must-have in our book because of how sturdy they are, not to mention their gorgeous brown color!

    Target

    Junie Tall Boots

    We know you'll still be wearing sweater dresses during winter because we will too! They're not complete without a pair of tall boots though. You'll love how versatile these suede pair are and may want to wear them with all of your winter OOTDS.

    Target

    Fur Mule Loafers

    Gucci stole our hearts with their 2015 Re-Edition Women's Princetown mules, but the price tag reminded us of the budgets we've been living on. We're willing to bet you're not interested in spending over $1000 for mules, but now you don't have to! These stylish loafers are only $35 at Target, but hurry because they're selling out!

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    Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

    While I've been keeping up with all the buzz surrounding Demi Moore's The Substance, and definitely understood it was THE feminist movie of the fall, I remember opening X in mid-October, seeing an unhinged photo of Margaret Qualley as Monstro Elisasue, and thinking to myself, Wow, apparently I do not know what this movie is about.

    If you're in the mood for a new, edgy horror movie that you can watch anytime of year, then do I have good news for you: The Substance is streaming now! Here's everything you need to know about the flick, including how to watch it this weekend because it will definitely make a great Halloween movie.

    • The Substance is streaming now, but it's also still available to see in theaters following its September 20 release date.
    • The movie follows an actress supposedly past her prime who takes matters into her own hands with a powerful serum called The Substance.
    • The cast includes Demi Moore, Margaret Qualley, and Dennis Quaid.

    Where can I watch The Substance 2024?

    The Substance Release Date

    The Substance is streaming on Mubi and is available on Fandango at Home. You can also see the movie in theaters now. The Substance premiered on September 20.

    What is The Substance movie about?

    Mubi

    The Substance Plot

    In Coralie Fargeat's new movie, Elisabeth Sparkle (Demi Moore) is a used-to-be A-lister who's horrified when studio head Harvey (Dennis Quaid) fires her from her own fitness TV show. (The audacity!) When she learns about The Substance, a new drug that promises youth and beauty, she immediately buys in.

    A single injection and suddenly she's Sue, a twenty-something (played by Margaret Qualley) who's exactly what Hollywood is looking for. There's just one rule: you can only spend a week in each body at a time or things go very, very wrong.

    Who's in the cast?

    Mubi

    The Substance Cast

    The cast of The Substance includes all-star names like Demi Moore, Margaret Qualley, and Dennis Quaid.

    What is the meaning behind The Substance?

    Mubi

    The Substance confronts all the different pressures placed on women: to look young, to act mature, to constantly reinvent yourself. In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, writer-director Coralie Fargeat explains how Margaret's Monstro Elisasue "represents the monstrous part that we try to hide so much because we feel that we can't adapt or fit."

    The end of the movie, in which (spoiler!!) Elisabeth basically melts into a pile of flesh on top of her Hollywood Walk of Fame star, frees her from any and all expectations. "It’s the first moment where she’s able to love herself. It’s the moment she sees herself and it’s not disgust, but in fact it’s as if she’s seeing her true self for the first time," Coralie says. "There’s self-indulgence, tenderness. It’s the first time she looks at herself in the mirror and doesn’t criticize herself. She decides, okay, I’m going to go out there, this is me, I have my right to have my place in the world."

    Wondering what to watch next? Check out the 10 New November Movies We've Been Waiting All Year For!

    The holidays are slowly approaching, and thank goodness, because it means all of the yummy fast food holiday menus are on their way. If you can’t get enough of a seasonal drink (perhaps a little peppermint action), listen up: Dunkin’s holiday menu for 2024 was just officially announced!

    After rumors about the Dunkin’holiday menu for 2024 had been swirling around online, the Dunkin' Instagram account just confirmed a lot of the drink and snack predictions for the lineup, and they look extra good.

    Plus, one of Dunkin's menu items is filling the void in my heart from a missing drink on the Starbucks rumored holiday menu. Hint: it involves toasted white mocha!

    The Dunkin’ holiday menu for 2024 is speculated to drop on November 1, six days before Starbucks’ rumored holiday menu will hit. Scroll on to see everything joining the Dunkin’ menu!

    When will the Dunkin' holiday menu for 2024 drop?

    Meredith Holser

    According to some menu leaks and rumors surrounding the Dunkin' holiday menu, a new lineup of drinks and snacks will become available starting November 1, 2024.

    The famed foodie account, @markie_devo, broke the news about the Dunkin' holiday menu leak first.

    Does Dunkin' have holiday cups?

    Yes, Dunkin' has holiday cups! They'll be available on November 1, once the holiday menu drops. The coffee chain posted a sneak peek of the holiday cup design on their Instagramon October 31. It appears the Dunkin' holiday cups have designs of donuts, peppermint candies, ornaments, and more. The color scheme is mostly white, orange, and pink!

    Drinks On The Dunkin' Holiday Menu 2024

    Dunkin'

    NEW! Holiday Cookie Signature Latte

    This festive new latte is made with brown sugar cookie and toasted almond syrups and topped off with whipped cream, caramel drizzle, and a scoop of cookie butter crumbles. Sounds like a totally sippable dessert to me!

    Dunkin'

    NEW! Brown Sugar Cookie Oat Iced Chai Latte

    Allegedly only available to order through the Dunkin' app, the Brown Sugar Cookie Oat Iced Chai Latte sounds like it'll combine brown sugar cookie syrup with oat milk and chai to usher in the holiday season. Based on previous menu offerings, you should be able to get this drink iced or hot.

    Dunkin'

    Peppermint Mocha Latte

    The Peppermint Mocha Latte is a classic when it comes to the Dunkin' holiday menu, so I'm not surprised it's returning this year. This bev features peppermint and mocha syrups, espresso, and milk, topped with a hefty serving of whipped cream, mocha drizzle, and hot chocolate powder. Bring it on!

    Dunkin'

    Toasted White Chocolate Latte

    No shade to Starbucks, but their rumored holiday menu for 2024 kind of broke my heart when I saw the Toasted White Mocha from years past wasn't coming back. Luckily, Dunkin' is filling the void with their Toasted White Chocolate Latte: a sweet, white chocolate-filled sip topped with whipped cream, caramel drizzle, and cinnamon sugar topping!

    Dunkin'

    White Hazelnut Bark Coffee

    Available hot or iced, this coffee is prepped with a Dunkin' toasted white chocolate swirl, hazelnut flavoring, and cream. Any seasonal drink that has nutty notes wins in my book!

    Dunkin'

    Spiced Cookie Coffee

    Another reported "in-app only" drink joining the Dunkin' holiday menu, the Spiced Cookie Coffee will likely also be available to order hot or iced. I expect this bev to taste just like a snickerdoodle cookie!

    Dunkin'

    Cookie Butter Cold Brew

    I am so excited about this cold brew drink coming back for the holidays at Dunkin'. The Cookie Butter Cold Brew is made with brown sugar cookie syrup and topped with cookie butter cold foam and a scoop of cookie butter crumbles for extra crunch. Stay tuned, because there's a sweet snack joining the menu to match!

    Dunkin'

    Toasted White Chocolate Coconut Cold Brew

    This rumored app-exclusive cold brew will include notes of white chocolate and coconut – I need it now.

    Dunkin'

    Peppermint Mocha Hot Chocolate

    This anticipated app-only sip nixes the expected espresso for a very chocolatey (and peppermint-y!) effect.

    Snacks + Food On The Dunkin' Holiday Menu 2024

    Dunkin'

    NEW! Hash Brown Brisket Scramble

    Dunkin' has tested a number of breakfast Scrambles over the years, which is why I'm not totally shook by this food item coming to the holiday menu for 2024. This iteration will feature hash browns, scrambled eggs, shredded brisket, smoked cheddar cheese, poblano peppers, caramelized onions, and of course, a rich Texas queso.

    Dunkin'

    NEW! Almond Croissant

    The holiday menu will also bring the Almond Croissant to Dunkin's breakfast lineup. It's a butter croissant filled with chopped almonds!

    Dunkin'

    Cookie Butter Donut

    Yep – I need this in my belly ASAP. The Cookie Butter Donut is packed with a cookie butter filling, slathered with maple-flavored icing, then dipped in a delish speculoos cookie topping (tastes just like Biscoff cookies)! Sweet treat, anyone?

    Subscribe to our newsletter to stay updated on the official Dunkin' holiday menu once it drops!

    This post has been updated.