If your body shape is petite, meaning you’re on the shorter side, you’ll want a boot that elongates your leg. Wolford suggests starting with a high-heel or platform boot to give you some extra height. Adding inches is especially important when you’re wearing a dress or skirt that hits below the knee, since the hemline will shorten your legs even more. Also, try looking for a pointed toe, which will also help make your legs look longer.

And when you’re wearing pants, try this trick: “Make sure your boots are the same color as your outfit. It will provide a lengthening block of color,” says Wolford.

Our boot picks for you:

Pair to covet: Alexander Wang Aymeline Ankle Boots, $575



Pair to buy: Pierre Dumas Lizbet 1, $49