I'm at the beginning of a staycation and have time to put 'pen to paper' to enlist your patient guidance...

I love blue and this is my year of dark blue (apparently). I bought the long ink rag & bone gillet (out for alterations at the mo) and have half a dozen thin merino pullovers as FFB options for cooler days. Boring perhaps, but simple, comfortable and flattering. The one article in the colorway that has eluded me is the 'perfect' blue bootie, so I was jazzed when I hit the jackpot while browsing on Yoox recently. Well, a giant box of blue booties showed up a few days ago (see Finds) <3

The easy NO was the beautiful cobalt and black ombre Church's chelsea, which were too small and no bigger options available [Pic #1]. As well made as they are, they'd last for years.

The easy YES was the pair of navy to black ombre patent leather NeO chelseas. Gorgeous depth of color, comfortable with nice foam lug sole, will work in the rain and go with everything [Pic #2].

The debate is between the two navy, block heel, taller shaft booties, that I intend to wear with that perfect pair of cropped flares in a dark color (when I find them or cut up my own). The options are between an Islo Isabella bootie that is part smooth leather and part patent, has a cool diagonal side zip and a square toe. These feel more fashion forward of the two, to my eye. I'm slightly worried that the very smooth leather shaft will scuff easily though. The competitor is a lovely suede boot from Deimille with two belts with silver buckles on the shaft and a slightly higher heel. These heights all work for me, but overall comfort will ultimately be a deciding factor. Below are some hastily styled, weird expression pics of me wearing both, one on each foot (which gives me a distinct limp). [Pic #3]

Then, while in the midst of this conundrum, a 'non-blue' pair arrive. These are a gorgeous patent, tall shaft, merlot, lace up, stompy bootie from rag & bone. This is a colorway that enhances my facial redness, so wearing it on the feet is best for me. They are certainly maximal, as the trend entails, and would be the focal point of any outfit. Lest you worry, they are very walkable. They're only 2.5" with the platform and have good flex in the forefoot, which can be a problem with platforms and is something I find excrutiating. I have tried them with a pair of moto ponte/leather pants and harems, for your consideration. Notice I lemming'd Una's H&M floaty shirt (high five UWPs!).[Pics #4 & 5]

Thanks for getting this far (phew!) and if inclined to opinion, please chime in!