Thanks all - I did a quick try-on yesterday and the tall boots coordinate color-wise very nicely with my leopard clutch. They look great with a dress -- the black jersey cowl neck dress for sure. Also looks *fab* with the new patterned shirt dress I got at Nordie's -- that is probably the closest to "hipster" I could find in my closet --but it'll be too cold for that dress, I'm afraid, even with toppers and a slip. Saving that look for spring.
Not so thrilled with the tall boots paired with jeans, because the boots are so light in color. The dark brown booties look better with jeans. Or maybe it's my Boston-adjusted eye (we wear a lot of black, black and more black here). But last night DH said the booties aren't "western enough." He thinks they are much too understated.
The other problem with the brown booties is that my pants tend to pop out of them. I had already ordered some stirrups to solve that, but they won't arrive before the trip.
I'm going to bring the black dress, both boots, jeans, black ponte knits, a couple of silk blouses, and for toppers a black cardigan with gold buttons, black pleather jacket, and black pleather moto. And the belt -- though I kind of prefer the blouses worn untucked.
I am thinking about wearing the tall boots on the plane to conserve luggage space, probably with black ponte knit pants (comfy for travel) and a big warm sweater. But the other items don't take up all that much room so there's a possibility I can pack them and wear the booties on the plane instead.
Will wear black lightweight puffer which is handy because it can be worn over the toppers and easily accommodates layering.
Now just have to decide when to wear what....
I am SO GLAD I bought these cowboy boots! I rarely get to wear them here in Boston but with this job they are going to come in very handy! I don't think this will be my only business trip I get to take them on.
Did I ever mention that my very first tall boots were cowboy boots??? My dad bought me a pair from Shepler's when I was 13. Because even back then I struggled to find tall boots to fit my short legs. I wore those boots for years and years. When I wear these new boots, I can't help but think of my dad and be transported back to my teenage years....
Also, my feet are going to be very happy. Both boots are very comfortable to walk in. I like how cowboy boots have heels, but are shaped in a way that they throw your weight back rather than forward on to your toes.
Rambling Ann - the belt actually matches everything. It is actually fairly subtle for a western belt.
