L.L. Bean Boots Were a Surprise Hit of Fashion Week, So Here’s How to Style the Practical Staple

key features that take this look to the next level. First is the cropped coat. Opting for a puffer that hits at or right above your hips will help elongate your legs and looks way more fashion-forward than a longer silhouette (especially if you splurge for one by The North Face x Gucci). The second is the addition of sleek accessories like a cashmere beanie (no pom-poms = a cleaner look) and a leather top-handle bag. They’ll help elevate your look much better than a kitschy scarf or slouchy tote.

Shop similar styles: L.L.Bean Chamois-Lined Bean Boots ($159); lululemon Twist Knit Hat ($48; $29); The North Face 1996 Retro Nuptse Coat ($280); Paige Hoxton Slim Jeans ($219); Madewell The Transport Bag ($158)

Another great way to elevate your Bean Boots is by pairing them with crisp white jeans and sharply tailored tops. Layer a button-up under a crewneck sweater, cropped jacket and long duster coat or trench, then finish with a pair of straight-leg jeans in a creamy winter white. The combination perfectly mixes casual with polished, making your winter booties feel appropriate for dinner, the office or even drinks with friends.

Shop similar styles: L.L.Bean Shearling-Lined Bean Boots ($229); Abercrombie & Fitch Wool-Blend Dad Coat ($220); M.M.LaFleur Ana Jacket ($245); H&M Sweater ($13); J.Crew Relaxed Fit Cotton Shirt ($80); Uniqlo Straight High-Rise Jeans ($50)

Finding the right lengths for both your outerwear and your dress or skirt is key to pulling off this combo. Opt for a dress that hits two or three inches above the top of your boot to show a little skin (or a cozy sock) and prevent you from being swallowed whole by all that fabric. As for the coat, try something that ends somewhere between mid-thigh and two inches above the knee rather than an ankle-grazing wrap or cropped silhouette. And bonus points if you can coordinate your clothes to match the colors of your boots (or at least come close) for an extra dose of cool.

Shop similar styles: Ulla Johnson Etna Boots ($550); J.Crew Colorblock Coat ($268); Reformation Dusk Dress ($278); Bembien Jolene Large Tote Bag ($210)

For weekend errand running it can be easy to pick up your fleece-lined leggings and favorite sweatshirt over and over again. But this matching duo is every bit as comfortable and warm, but is much trendier and won’t make you feel embarrassed should you run into an ex/frenemy/boss/annoying teacher at the grocery store. And yes, you could sport a pullover knit instead, but we find a maxi cardigan will better lengthen your frame and is less likely to be confused for PJs.

Shop similar styles: Diemme Balbi Boots ($333); Theory Beanie Hat ($125; $38); Eileen Fisher Cozy Brushed Terry Coat ($298); Naked Cashmere Faye Cardigan ($275) and Dawnie Cashmere Pants ($325)

Speaking of matching duos, we’re always big fans of a denim-on-denim look. But in this case, we think a clean white or black wash works better than traditional blue. Why? Both hues give these casual staples a posh city feel, more like a suit than a rancher’s uniform, which in turn gives your Bean Boots a stylish lift, too. Accessorize with a petite shoulder bag that fits just the essentials and you should be good to go.

Shop similar styles: L.L.Bean Signature Waxed-Canvas Boots ($149; $100); American Eagle Outfitters Classic Denim Jacket ($70; $53) and Baggy Mom Jeans ($50; $38); Ulla Johnson Esme Small Accordian Bag ($595)