As a crisp chill descends upon the city, the forecast promises a delightfully cold season ahead. This winter, the quintessential boot emerges as the ultimate style staple, ready to stomp into every occasion. From ankle-length and cowboy styles to knee-high silhouettes, these unofficial mascots of the season are back in vogue. To navigate this boot-filled season with panache, Calcutta Times presents an exclusive look book, featuring four fierce and fashionable women from Kolkata who demonstrate how to master this trend with personal flair.
Exclusive Boot Styling Looks from Kolkata's Fashion Icons
The editorial shoot, featuring photography by Kaustav Saikia and helmed by Pinky Kenworthy, offers a masterclass in personalized winter dressing. Each look moves beyond mere trend-following to celebrate individual identity.
Pinky Kenworthy: Tradition with a Twist
Runway choreographer Pinky Kenworthy reimagines ethnic wear with boldness. Her styling notes suggest pairing a classic Bengal batik silk sari with a playful red tulle skirt for an unexpected fusion. The look is accessorized with floral hair clips on one shoulder and a statement belt for modern edge. The key footwear? A pair of striking oxblood boots. For makeup, she recommends a sculpted base balanced with defined eyes and lifted blush, leaving the choice of lip colour—bold or neutral—to the individual.
Bitasta Sinha Roy: Sparkling Rebellion
Model Bitasta Sinha Roy crafts a cool, party-ready ensemble. Her recipe involves transforming a skirt into a baby-doll dress and adding sparkle with chunky acrylic bangles. A cinched belt defines the shape, while long boots ground the outfit, giving it a solid foundation. A high ponytail adds a retro finish. The corresponding makeup look is all about glow: a dewy, luminous base with glittery eyes, pink cheeks, and glossy lips.
Natalie Pote: Edgy Grunge Glam
Fitness coach Natalie Pote channels a modern grunge aesthetic. The look is a bold mix of fishnets, a black lace camisole, a bikini top, ripped denim shorts, and a long leather jacket. Layered metal belts add a funky touch. The outfit is anchored with ankle-length snakeskin boots, providing an edgy contrast. Messy, open hair completes the vibe. Makeup artist Sonam Jaiswal suggests a matte, natural base with smokey brown eyes and matte brown lips, keeping blush minimal to complement the edgy theme.
Madeleine St John: Bold Colour Blocking
Madeleine St John, Director of TRI Art & Culture, opts for a classic yet vibrant winter look. She combines a blue knee-length sheath dress with an olive green suede jacket for effective colour blocking. Warmth and style are added via a floral scarf, black stockings, and wine-toned lace-up boots. Seasonal flowers lend a delicate touch. For makeup, a hydrated base with pink blush sets the stage for a dramatic statement featuring winged eyeliner and a bold red lip.
Pro Tips to Perfect Your Boot Style
Beyond the individual looks, the feature distills essential styling wisdom. Hairstylist Rama Pradhan recommends chic messy curls for ankle or mid-calf boots, soft waves for chunky or snakeskin styles, and a sleek high ponytail with tonged front strands for knee-high boots.
General style commandments include:
- Match the Height: Ankle-length boots work with denims and pencil skirts, knee-high pairs with short hemlines, and mid-calf styles with flowy dresses.
- Balance Proportions: Pair chunky boots with structured coats and sleek boots with softer fabrics.
- Perfect the Fit: Ensure they are snug at the ankle and comfortable at the calf; utilize adjustable buckles if needed.
- Make it a Statement: Let your boots be the star by coordinating carefully or going bold with colour and texture.
- Own Your Look: Ultimately, confidence is the best accessory you can wear.
The trending palette for the season features slouch and cowboy boots in earthy browns, deep burgundy, and suede olive. As Pinky Kenworthy perfectly summarizes, each look is "whimsical and unapologetically personal, proving that style is about identity, not similarity." So, as the year-end soirées line up, step into the cold weather with inspiration and undeniable style.
