Kelsea Ballerini Embraces Fall in Burgundy Knee-High Boots at Chicago Concert
When a look glows under stage lights and still feels wearable IRL, we pay attention. At Chicago’s historic Riviera Theatre, Kelsea Ballerini delivered that sweet spot—equal parts sleek, confident, and deliciously bold. Her secret weapon: a pair of deep, red-wine **knee-high boots** that turned every step into a statement. Consider this your inspiration to lean into luxe texture and rich color as the season shifts.
Burgundy Boots, Center Stage
Ballerini’s tour footwear—a collaboration with **Steve Madden**—leaned into drama with glossy **patent leather** in a moody burgundy. The silhouette felt modern yet classic: an **almond toe**, inner side zippers, and a tall **block heel** hovering around 4 to 5 inches.
Unlike the clingy, sock-like pairs dominating our feeds, these boots didn’t grip the calf. That relaxed shaft gave the shine and shape room to breathe, and it read effortlessly cool from every angle.
Kelsea Ballerini at the Riviera Theatre in Chicago, Illinois on Sept. 25, 2025. Getty Images
Color Play: Maroon on Maroon
For the performance, she paired the boots with a slinky maroon catsuit—off-the-shoulder with a sculpting cutout at the abdomen. Monochrome, but never boring.
When rich tones sit this close on the color wheel, the effect is quietly elevated. It’s a styling move we love for evening events and fall nights out.
A Steve Madden Touch
If you’re browsing Steve Madden’s lineup, the look echoes the brand’s **Aria** vibe—sleek and sky-high—though Aria’s hallmark is a stretchy, leg-hugging upper. Ballerini has rotated through variations on tour, including striking brights, proving the silhouette works well in both classic and playful palettes.
Kelsea Ballerini performs for SiriusXM and Pandora at the Riviera Theatre in Chicago on Sept. 25. Kevin Mazur/Getty Images
Trend Report: Knee-Highs, Everywhere
Call it a resurgence or a reset, but **knee-high boots** are shaping the mood for transitional dressing. Stars like Jessica Alba, Kristin Cavallari, Suki Waterhouse, and Lindsay Lohan have stepped out in the silhouette lately.
Even royalty is aligned: **Kate Middleton** recently reached for custom **Gianvito Rossi** boots in chocolate suede. With an elongated pointed toe and a knee-length cut, they’re proof that knee-highs can be refined, understated, and incredibly versatile.
Seasonless, If You Style Them Right
Yes, you’ll see them all winter—but smart styling keeps them in rotation year-round. Wear them bare-legged with minis now; layer them with knits and tailored separates when temperatures dip.
Middleton wore her slightly slouchy pair beneath a Ralph Lauren tweed midi—an elegant way to ground texture with texture.
A closer look at the deep red boots Kelsea Ballerini wore onstage in Chicago. Getty Images
How We’d Style Burgundy Knee-Highs Now
- With a sleek knit mini and long coat: let the boots be the focal point while the coat adds swish.
- Over straight-leg denim: balance patent shine with matte textures—think cashmere or brushed wool.
- With a column dress: monochrome or tonal shades keep the line long and the vibe polished.
- For evening: pair with a satin slip and an oversized blazer for a glossy-meets-tailored contrast.
Shop the Look-Alikes
Craving the same energy? Several labels offer silhouettes that channel Ballerini’s on-stage shine.
- Larroudé “Cindy Hi”: Almond toe, tall **block heel**, and a sleek profile that mirrors the mood.
- Vince Camuto: Rich finishes and wearable heel heights for day-to-night looks.
- Franco Sarto: Streamlined shafts with modern toe shapes for a minimalist take.
- Ralph Lauren: Equine-inspired elegance with premium leathers and timeless lines.
Final Take
Consider **burgundy boots** your shortcut to instant polish. Whether patent or suede, pointed or almond, the silhouette telegraphs confidence—no extra effort required.
Ready to try the trend your way? Slip into a pair that makes you stand taller, then share your look with the Malibu Elixir community—we can’t wait to see your signature spin.
