Boots? Need advice!

ChristineB

OK, as a Canadian, this is going to sound really strange, but I've never owned 'fashion' boots before. I've had lots of pairs of functional snow boots, but nothing that looks good AND keeps me warm.

So, I'm planning on buying a pair of knee high ish boots sometime in the next month or so specifically to wear to work & church with skirts, and possibly with my dress pants (pants over top not under). I don't own a pair of skinnies or leggings at this point, so nothing besides tights will be tucked in.

I'm really not 100% sure what I'm looking for. I think I want a heel or a wedge - not flat.

Please, please give me any advice you can think of that would be useful for a first time boot buyer. I'm excited to own a pair, but I'm one of those people who likes to be armed with information before shopping.

Thanks!

Christine

16 years ago

Body Type

3 replies

Latest reply was from garmenta

April

Veteran

Christine, have you read this blog entry http://youlookfab.com/2008/10/.....-the-calf/ This is the one that has ruined the boot search for many of us. It is hard to find just the right calf circumference.

If your calf runs 14 - 15 inches, the world is your oyster when it comes to boots. Most regular boots seem to fall between these two measurements. Measure your calf around the widest part with your foot flat on the floor and see what you come up with. If you're very far away from 14-15 in either direction, you may need to check out Duo boots. They offer many circumferences but shipping is from England and adds a lot to the cost.

Also, you'll want to think about material. The most common options are: suede; patent leather; pebbled leather; and "glove" leather (smooth, untextured). I think of suede as the least dressy.

Comfort is key, because when you're in boots, you're pretty much committed -- no slipping your shoes off for a few moments beneath your desk. But if you buy a pair with enough room for a comfy insole, the good news is that no one can see what you pad your boots with.

Before you go out shopping, do some online browsing at Zappos -- they are good about telling the calf circumference. Get a sense of what your eye is drawn to, and that will narrow down the options a little.

Good luck, and show us what you come up with!

16 years ago

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

As a first time boot shopper, may I suggest that you take yourself off to a department store in a frock and try on loads of boots. Feel your way around them and take pictures if you can.

16 years ago

garmenta

Active Member

If you have $250-300 to invest (and in a wintry climate good boots are important!) I'd recommend taking a look at a Canadian-made boot that stands up to snow and cold and has a fashionable twist: La Canadienne. Traction, warmth, and style all at once!

16 years ago

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