Dye/R? Crackle Frye Melissa Boots - YouLookFab Forum

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Dye/R? Crackle Frye Melissa Boots

rae

(website)

Veteran

The cracked white Fryes also arrived today - I can see why these are so much cheaper than any other color of the Melissas... the white is very white, while I was hoping for more of a beige. I wouldn't keep them this color, sadly, since they really feel costumey - like I should be changing into my She Ra outfit any second.

However... the bargain hunter in me sees possibilities. They are comfy, which is rare for me and flats. The shaft opening fits really well for a pull on boot. I still LOVE the crackle texture. I'd love to have that texture in another color... brown? burgundy? deep, dark teal? Maybe even tan/nude-for-me?

The cons would be that they come across a little more western than normal for me. They *are* pull on, so the ankle is wider than I'm used to. And the height may be tall enough that they are too "look at me" for shorts.

Thoughts? Horrified screams?

PS: please excuse the loungewear tank!

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27 replies

Latest reply was from rae

Transcona Shannon

Veteran

Call me crazy (many do!) but I actually like the white. I think the crackle effect takes away any costumey problems. And I really like the fit on you - especially when you see them from the side.

However, I can understand if you're not crazy about the white colour. If you think you could successfully dye them, it's worth seriously thinking about. The comfort factor is there so maybe try and work with them? I don't think they look western BTW. I like the possibility of burgundy or dark teal.

Dying to see what others say...

rae

(website)

Veteran

Hubs thinks I'm crazy for buying boots when I might quit my job soon, too... I see his point, but I guess I'm looking at it as my last hurrah.

Julie

Veteran

Rae, you and I usually see eye to eye when it comes to boots, but these ones just make me want to run screaming from the room. Too flat, too wide in the ankle, and the finish makes me think of old paint that's been in the sun too long.

You can do, and certainly deserve much better. When I see you in boots, I see class, and these just aren't doing it.

(Gee Julie, tell us how you really feel)

My apologies if I offend, but friends don't let friends wear bad boots.

Transcona Shannon

Veteran

So are you questioning the boots themselves or the buying of boots period?

cheryle (Dianthus)

(website)

Veteran

Sorry to be off topic but I thought you just got a new job recently. Did I miss something?

On topic: I"m not loving the shape and think you should return and hold out for the real prize.

rae

(website)

Veteran

I'm just questioning the boots themselves - I think that probably says a lot, since I should probably be madly in love with them.

Dianthus, I did get a new job in October, but I don't feel like I fit in there. I feel like an outcast, and it is stressful to be so alone all the time. Since I'm not that passionate about the work, the companionship meant a lot to me in the past. I'm thinking of trying to change careers and do something like personal shopping.

Debbie

Veteran

Rae-I would return these. I think dyeing them with that finish could be a huge mistake.
With NAS coming up I think you could find something that you like better.

ManidipaM

Veteran

I like the thought of teal for you --- would play nicely with your sour colours. Or maybe a pewter or bronze --- basically a metallic that isn't too light or bright. Maybe even a coloured metallic, like green or deep purple (partner your trench!)?

cheryle (Dianthus)

(website)

Veteran

Rae, I have come to the conclusion that we spend far too much of our time at work to be doing something that makes us unhappy or uncomfortable. I hope you find a better option.

ironkurtin

Veteran

I think for boots that you dye, you might be better off with a less expensive pair if money is a concern.

Also, if you are quitting, you should tap Marcie again.

rae

(website)

Veteran

Ok, I need to return these. Thanks for chiming in... I mean if my main boot cheerleader doesn't like them, there's something wrong.

Thank you also for the job pep talks. I am wondering if my shopping lately is reflecting some of the stress I feel over the issue. I feel bad, like I should be more grateful, or like I'm abandoning people, and I feel bad because someone else lost out on this job in order for me to get it. That, and I'm scared to death of changing directions and all. But I guess this is getting way OT now!

Deborah

Veteran

Rae FWIW i actually like them...and I didn't think I would! However I understand your concerns and appreciate why they are going back.

Just wanted to share that I also find myself shopping to fill a hole that seems to exist due to dissatisfaction at work. I am also considering my career options and am thinking of trying to get my own business of the ground while I continue in my current part time role. Will be thinking of you as you work through this.

Diana

Veteran

Oh my, those are so very white. I'm glad I did not try them, as it would have been way too white for me. I do think the fit seems a little too loose for my taste.

I also am not sure that the finish would take well to being dyed... would the cracked underneath part also get dyed? I think that might look a little odd, as I think what makes the cracking work is that the cracks reveal the natural color and texture underneath.

Mo

(website)

Veteran

Okay, on the boots, return. I agree with Julie. I think you want the honest truth.

On the job, I feel you. I JUST landed a position I practically begged for. "I'll do one shift, six shifts, fill in, on call, banquets, anything." Only to quit 3 weeks in Such is life sometimes.

goldenpig

(website)

Veteran

I vote return too! Too wide, too cheap looking--you need something rugged yet sophisticated and this doesn't seem like either.

Sorry about your job stress...I hope things work out and that you find something you like better.

Vildy

Veteran

White cowgirl/majorette boots? Doesn't it call for a parade?

ETA: no, I wouldn't dye these. Same parade, different marching order.

Janet

(website)

Veteran

Rae, as another huge boot advocate, I want to like these but somehow they're not quite doing it for me either. Hard to put a finger on it. Some combination of the height, color, finish, and loose style is just not adding up to fab enough for you, even though I like them in theory!

I think you'd make an awesome personal shopper!

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

I vote return. The V-shape in front does not seem right for your style, Rae. Too cowboy and not enough equestrian.

Personally, I love the fabrication of the leather.

Jonesy

Veteran

Major drum majorette action! I agree about returning.

I'm so sorry about your job. I know exactly what you mean about feeling like you don't belong, and feeling alone. It can make the day drag on soooooo long! I hope you can find something you really want to do, that will suit your talents and brains and make you happy.

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rae

(website)

Veteran

So... I just ordered these ones by Timberland instead. Less than half the price of the Fryes, they are already burgundy, reviews say great arch support, narrow footbed, slim and adjustable zip shaft.

I wanted to sell and replace my current burgundy boots anyway because the 5" heel isn't doing it now that I actually have to walk from my car to the office and use stairs... the almost-flat boots should also be very practical if I try to work in retail. With a little reselling luck, I could see it being an even exchange.

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Julie

Veteran

Loving the prospective Timberlands, so far.

Regarding your job stress. You've only been there since October. Some office settings can be a bit clannish and take time to warm up to newcomers. How are they treating you that makes you feel so alienated? is it possible that you are intimidating them; unintentionally of course. I may be playing devil's advocate here and I hear you when you say you want to become a personal shopper. But, before you take the leap, use the job you have now to really scope out prospective careers. Being in the banking industry, I assume you know here money actually comes from and how it can get people into trouble. Most start-ups fail due to under capitalization. You may have to tough it out until you can lay aside that start-up money.

Several times a year, I'm called upon to try and rescue an under capitalized business, anything from a consultant, to an aerospace machine shop.

If you are thinking of financing any part of your start-up, remember: a banker is someone who will lend you his umbrella, but who wants it back once it starts to rain.

Julie

rae

(website)

Veteran

Thanks so much for that, Julie. It helps so much to have these YLF pep talks. In a way, the alienation is actually a blessing in disguise - it made me take a hard look at what I've been doing and realize that I need to at least try to go after a dream before I give up on it. My spirit was beaten down a lot after the movie industry strikes (I initially wanted to do wardrobe for film/tv!), but I'm tired of looking at my own goals as impossible fairy tales.

Financially, I'm pretty good. I've done nothing but save since I graduated, and I think now it's time to take a risk - or else what am I saving for? Ideally, I would start by getting a retail job someplace that has a shopper service. But even if I could not get hired and had to strike out and start a solo business, I don't envision needing a loan. DH is also very supportive, and we're willing to relocate, so that opens a lot of possibilities up.

goldenpig

(website)

Veteran

Rae, just a thought...can you do personal shopping/styling services on the side, like on evenings or weekends? Just to dip your toes into it before you decide if you want to ditch your full time job? Advertise in the local mom's clubs...like me, there are a lot of moms who need a fashion makeover post-baby. Maybe do it for free or low cost for some friends first in exchange for taking photos of them so you can build up a portfolio (before and after pics of closets/outfits) and references. Seems like it wouldn't take much start up capital to do that sort of wardrobe makeover/personal shopping service, since they would be paying for the clothes and you're just donating your time. And then if you get a few clients who like you, you will quickly get more by word of mouth.

I would totally love to have you shop for me! UWP makeover!

rae

(website)

Veteran

Thanks, Natalie! I thought about doing this on the side, too, but I know I am just so prone to staying in a rut. I need to at least get myself into a retail day job. I love your advice about new moms and about building a portfolio. I have shopped for free for friends, and it would be great to build more recommendations off of that. I can't wait to see you at the swap party in July!

Sveta

(website)

Veteran

Rae, I applaud you for willing to take the risk and change your life. It is so easy to get into a rut and just stay there because it is a familiar ground even though it makes you unhappy.
I also think it makes sense to go from the deep end instead of trying to ease into it on the side - especially if you can afford it financially. It seems more risky but on the other hand you will be putting all your energy into a new thing and it should make a big difference.
Go after your dream!

RandomThoughts (Andrea)

Veteran

I applaud risk-taking, Rae. If you can afford it, do it! Go go go!

rae

(website)

Veteran

Sveta and Andrea, I really am glad I read this last night. It very much helped calm me down.