Great Ways to Style Combat Boots (Power, Rebellion & Practicality Included)

Great Ways to Style Combat Boots (Power, Rebellion & Practicality Included)

Combat boots have always meant more than just footwear to me. They’re power, rebellion, and practicality wrapped into one wearable statement. I’ve worn them everywhere—on stage, on film sets, through city streets, while travelling, and at long festival days where fashion has to meet function.

What makes combat boots special is their versatility. What makes Rainbow City combat boots special is that they do all of this while being art.

Our boots come in bold solid colours like Fabulous Fuchsia and in original paint-poured prints like Aura Splash (the boot that started it all) and Feel the Borboleta—designs that look like tie-dye on your feet and turn every outfit into a conversation.

Below are my favourite ways to style combat boots—based on real wear, real compliments, and real life.

Combat Boots With Laces 

Laces aren’t just functional—they’re a styling tool. Here are three ways to lace combat boots that completely change the vibe:

  • Tight & Traditional
    • Best for: City wear, film sets, all-day walking
    • Why it works: Keeps the boot sleek and secure
    • Style tip: Let the colour or print do the talking
  • Ladder Lacing (Structured & Statement-Making)
    • Best for: Edgy outfits, minimalist looks, monochrome styling
    • Why it works: Adds visual interest without extra accessories
  • Ribbon Laces (Soft Rebellion)
    • Best for: Skirts, dresses, weddings, creative events
    • Why it works: Juxtaposes toughness with softness—very Rainbow City
  • Combat Boots With Jeans (A Classic for a Reason)

Combat boots and jeans are effortless, but the cut matters

Outfit Formula:

Combat boots + skinny jeans + oversized tee or blazer = instant cool
Combat boots + jean shorts + tank or mesh top = confident, fun, wearable art

What Works Best:

  • Boot-cut jeans: Balance the chunkiness of the boot
  • Skinny jeans: Show off the full silhouette
  • Jean shorts: Absolute must. Festival-approved. Zero notes.

Combat Boots With Skirts (Comfort and Confidence)

Combat boots don’t cancel femininity—they redefine it. You can go military-straight with a structured skirt or lean into contrast with something floaty. Either way, you’re grounded—literally and stylistically.

Ways to Style:

  • Wedding dress? Yes. Wear the boots.
  • Mini skirt + combat boots: Bold, powerful, unapologetic
  • Flowy knee-length skirt: Soft movement + strong base

Combat Boots with a Heel 

If you’re searching for combat boots with a heel, here’s what matters:

Rainbow City combat boots feature a 1" platform sole; It’s the sweet spot between flat and fashion heel—especially if you’re standing all day (or dancing all night).

  • Height without discomfort
  • Stability for long wear
  • A subtle lift that changes posture and confidence

Combat Boots for Festivals, Outdoors & Long Days

I don’t hike—but I do festivals. And I care deeply about my feet. Combat boots are traditionally all function. Rainbow City boots are fashion meets function—they support your body and your self-expression.

Why These Boots Work for the 35+ Club:

  • Wide sole: Better weight distribution
  • Platform support: Reduces foot fatigue
  • Structured design: Helps when feet swell (hello, 35+ club)

A Real-Life Moment That Says It All

When I wore my Feel the Borboleta combat boots to Vermont, my friend’s mom—who happened to be the first female buyer for Sears Canada—stopped me and said:

“Those are amazing. People would buy those.”

I wore different shoes home. She bought the boots off of my feet. 

That moment still means everything to me. Being noticed by someone who understands fashion at that level—because I cared enough to cultivate my personal style—was validating in the best way.

Why Rainbow City Combat Boots Are Different

  • Original paint-poured prints
  • Bold, joyful colourways
  • Vegan materials
  • Designed for expression, comfort, and rebellion
  • Made for people who refuse to dress quietly

Can you choose between a solid or a print?