How to Wear Desert Boots: Outfit Ideas for Men

Desert boots have long been a footwear staple for stylish gents. Both fashionable and functional, these classic boots make a perfect choice for various casual occasions. Of course, if you’re yet to rock a pair of ankle-length shoes, you may wonder exactly how to wear them. Thankfully, we’re here to lend some expert advice. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back shoe to wear to the bar with the boys or a smart yet comfortable footwear option for the office, we’ve got you covered. Here’s our guide on how to wear desert boots for a relaxed and casual look.

What are Desert Boots?

While desert boots can be found worldwide, their origins trace back to Northern Africa, where British soldiers once wore them on desert campaigns (hence the name). Bought from local bazaars, the soldiers preferred these practical, ankle-length shoes because of their comfort, durability, lightweight design, and flat crepe sole, which worked well on sand. When Nathan Clark (of Clarks shoes) first saw these boots when stationed in the region during World War II, he was impressed with the design. So, when he arrived home in England, he began creating his own. Today, after many decades, these shoes still offer the same outstanding practicality, comfort, and style. Of course, they’re more likely to be spotted on a city street than on a sandy expanse.

Desert Boots vs Chukka Boots

Desert boots fall into the category of chukka boots. So, while all desert boots are chukkas, not all chukkas are desert boots. Thankfully, there is a way to distinguish the difference. While all chukkas feature a lace-up, ankle-length design with two or three eyelets for laces, only desert boots tend to have a crepe rubber sole. Additionally, most desert boots are more casual in material and design than other styles. Of course, that’s not to say sophisticated desert boots aren’t around. As with most fashion items, these shoes have diversified over time, with many versions now available.

When to Wear Desert Boots

Casual Occasions

Desert boots can look fantastic with a range of outfits. However, they are best suited to casual outfits. For a cool, casual look, try rocking a pair of desert boots with jeans. You can even cuff or roll up the bottoms to show off your shoes stylishly and project an awesome, relaxed vibe. You can wear just about anything up top. A plain T-shirt, a sweater, a button-down, or even a checked flannel shirt can look awesome with these boots.

Smart Casual Occasions

Desert boots in classic colors like brown, beige, and black are ideal for smart casual occasions. Perfect for when you need to get ready in a flash, these boots can quickly be thrown on with a pair of slim chinos and a neutral button-up shirt for a sleek look. You can try teaming your boots with a relaxed suit for a slightly more formal appearance. Remember to keep things laid back by wearing a T-shirt or ditching the suit jacket.

Business Casual Occasions

Want to wear your desert boots to the office? So long as you don’t work in a highly formal environment, you can confidently do so. To create a smart business casual look, pair these boots with straight or slim chinos or trousers in a classic color like beige, navy, or black. On top, select an Oxford shirt in a block-neutral hue like white or a classic checked design. Then, add a belt and a tie or jacket if you like.

Desert Boots Outfits

Suede Desert Boots

Suede and brushed leather are classic and popular choices for desert boots. Consider timeless colors like beige, brown, and black or slightly bolder hues like grey and navy when buying a pair. As suede typically appears more casual than leather, pairing these shoes with a relaxed yet stylish outfit, such as jeans with a T-shirt or knit sweater, is best. While slim-fit jeans tend to look the best with desert boots, you can rock a different cut or even switch your jeans for chinos on occasion.

Leather Desert Boots

Although not as common as suede styles, leather boots are also a worthy investment for gents. Whether genuine or more animal-friendly, leather desert boots look sleek and smart. So, while they can work with casual ensembles, they also partner perfectly with more polished looks. Although you’ll want to select a quality pair of leather desert boots to ensure they’ll last a long time, don’t stress too much if they get scuffed. A worn-in appearance can add to the style of your boots, creating an impressive rugged aesthetic.

Black Desert Boots

Black desert boots are highly versatile, making them an excellent investment for gents. These shoes can work well with various garments and outfits thanks to their neutral hue. In particular, a cool monochrome ensemble can appear seriously stylish. Team up your black desert boots with black jeans or chinos, a white T-shirt, and a casual black blazer, leather jacket, or coat to rock the look.

Brown Desert Boots

Whether leather or suede, brown desert boots make a fantastic wardrobe addition. They look great, and these shoes can work brilliantly with various outfits. For instance, they can easily be worn with your favorite blue or black jeans for a relaxed yet fashionable appearance. Add a white T-shirt for casual events or a white shirt for formal functions. You can even rock a pair of brown desert boots to the office.

How to Wear Desert Boots

• Keep your desert boots clean, especially suede styles, which can quickly appear messy without proper care.
• Pair suede desert boots with jeans and a T-shirt or sweater for a cool, casual look.
• Team leather desert boots with chinos and a shirt for a smart casual style.
• For a classic look, choose beige, brown, and black styles.
• For something a little bolder, try a navy or grey design.

Taylah McKee

Writer

Taylah Brewer holds a bachelor's degree in fashion and business and is a skilled writer with several years of experience in the world of online content creation and copywriting. She is passionate about fashion, beauty, and all things lifestyle-related and has been writing for The Trend Spotter since 2016. She currently works as the Head of Digital & Ecommerce at White & Co.