I really don't know what happened in this past year and a half, but my stylistic eye is a-changing. Items that I used to think were frumpy or clunky or just weird are suddenly, unexpectedly... attractive. It's not that the items themselves have changed, either - it's all me.

To name a few examples: Faux fur vests. Midi dresses. Sparkly embroidery. Flat oxfords - worn with a figure-hugging dress. Turtlenecks.

My only explanation is that it has got to be some kind of fashion karma getting me back for saying "Oh, I'd NEVER be able to wear that!"

The latest item to unexpectedly charm me into giving it a trial run at home? A pair of black, 20 eyelet Dr. Martens.

And this is coming from the girl who has historically not been a Docs fan - I like the boots on other people, but still I usually like to see something a bit streamlined, not so tough or edgy, not such a rugged, chunky sole.

But the Dr. Martens Leanne has a sleeker profile, more tapered, a thinner sole, and is a wedge. It's a bit more of a refined shoe, and I am smitten. It's a little higher than my "sweet spot" for heels, but feels lower than the 3.25" that is listed on the Zappos page for the shoe. I'd primarily see myself wearing these boots with dresses, or possibly over leggings once they have stretched a bit* (see below.)

The Leanne is a bit wider in the calf than the average Doc, meaning that the calf circumference is CLOSE to fitting - I can loosen the laces to adjust the fit, but the laces are a little shorter and the very upper part of the calf a little wider in the tongue than I'd like. But it's close enough to make my heart leap. They're incredibly comfortable. Also, they don't crumple in the ankle nearly as much as many of my other tall boots do.

No pictures of me trying them out yet, but I'll report back later.**

*Veteran Doc owners, what do you think - would it be worth visiting a cobbler to see if I can get them slightly stretched in the upper calf and/or tongue?

**Edited to add photos of me trying on the boots with a dress.