Better in Boots

I already did a rather snarky review of a very similar Miu Miu knee-high version of this boot, finding it simply over the top and rather useless for anything but standing on a platform somewhere, in all its sparkly, impractical glory.  A work of art, yes, but something to wear, no. HOWEVER, this Sergio Rossi  ankle boot is something else.  I’m surprised to see an almost identical fishnet design which is eather a huge coincidence or a matter of one designer definitely influencing the other. This ankle boot version would be a beautiful, delicate alternative to shoes for a fancy evening event. They don’t come cheap, but then so is anything covered in Swarovski crystals. Available for $1,615 at Louisaviaroma.

Christian Louboutin has done it again. He’s created a gorgeous boot that, without being outlandish, is both distinctive and flattering. I love the seams and contrast stitching that keep this basic calf-leather boot interesting. 4″ heel. Available at Bergdorf Goodman.

If you like the current military style, AND you are a fan of the Chloé lace up boots which have been sold out for some time, you might consider these Ralph Lauren “Stacie” Boots.  The profile, complete with little turned-down cuff, is very similar to the Chloé boots, but rather than lace up, they button up, cadet style. Also available in black (see photo after the jump). I like the lean profile, with a heel that is slender, yet a little more solid than a typical stiletto. Better for marching. Still, the 5′inch heels are not for whimps.  Available for $727 at farfetch.com.

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If you’re looking for a departure from the proliferation of black boots out there, consider these Barbara Bui fur and leather boots.  I think Bui is really coming into her own as a designer of shoes that are trend conscious but not trendy, with a flattering profile. I’m always about the profile. There’s a reason the phrase a “well turned ankle” was coined, right? Unlike Louboutin’s riding boots in the review below, these flatter the ankle, have a great shape and nice detailing.  Available on sale for $330 at farfetch.com.

Star Style Inc.

I’m not a fan of the elfen-slash-robin-hood look of tiny-wedge-heeled narrow-toed boots like these ones from Loeffler Randall. But leave it to Jessica Alba to make them look good. So the question is, “Is it the boots or is it Jessica?” I do love this color as a relief from the all-black or even brown uniform most of us wear, and what’s not to like about the buffed soft leather?  I just prefer a more tailored boot that gives a nice shape to a woman’s ankle and calf. Again, though, it’s Jessica Alba. She could probably tie paper sacks around her feet and look fashionable. The Loeffler Randall Classic “Matilde” boots in ”grey vachette” are available for $664 at Revolve Clothing and at Bergdorf Goodman.where they are calling this same color “tortura”.

As you can see, this third Casadei has the same basic qualities of the previous two I reviewed, in terms of the platform and the overall silhouette of the boot.  That’s not because the designer is limited, it’s just because these are my three particular favorites and this is, of course, my blog.  One difference with the Casadei platform bootie is the nice departure from the ever-present black.  They are “clay”-colored soft calf-leather with tan suede detailing in the form of a strip around the platform and detailing at the arch which, combined with the black elastic at the ankles add attractive, yet conservative detailing.  How’s that for a super serious description.  Does anyone else think that maybe I look at boots too closely?  These have a 4 1/2″ heel with a 1″ platform and you can find them for $850 at shoebox.com.

Stuart Weitzman’s designs are conservative without being boring. They are handmade with attention to detail and quality which has attracted celebs such as Paris Hilton and Eva Longoria Parker, and non-celebs who appreciate their reasonable prices. So far this season, the Stuart Weitzman Coinage Boot is my favorite alternative to the Ugg.  Finally, a cozy suede boot with sheepskin lining that doesn’t make your feet look like you’re some kind of Transformer robot. Note the picture of the back with the cool furry stripe up that runs up the shaft.  The stylish, slight slouch and silver-toned “coins” at the pull tabs, with the Stuart Weitzman logo stamp on them, are stylish details that keep these from being just another winter boot. You can buy these for $298 at Shoebox.com.

A lower profile, leather version of the Chloé suede lace-up reviewed earlier. This one is a bit less expensive and (only slightly) more available. It doesn’t knock me over with grace and beauty like the suede lace-up, but it does have a very similar look. It’s grey with a tan heel. Nice combo. Slightly more conservative with the collar turned down and a shorter heel!  The Chloé Two-Tone Lace-up Ankle Boot (I call it a bootie since it barely grazes the ankles) is available for $670 at  SaksFifthAvenue.com.

My first reaction was to pass. But upon second thought…I was intrigued. For those like me who have a little trouble using their imagination, I’ve included a photo of how these Fendi color-block boots look with an outfit. They kind of give off a ’70’s vibe and are definitely more striking than either black or brown boots alone. And talk about versatile! You know how you always need black boots for some outfits and brown for others? With these you can swing both ways!!! Find them at Net-A-Porter.com for $995 now $497

Unless, as of this post, you’re a size 5 1/2 or 10 1/2 –these, among Chloé’s most elegant boots of the season, are SOLD OUT.  Hey here’s one time where it’s lucky to either have itty bitty or giant feet!!  I’m sorry I didn’t get my blog up and running earlier to give the rest of you a heads up.  Several celeb sightings probably helped these fly off the shelves.  I had to include them here just for posterity.  These doe-like ankle boots would be so sweet with a nice skinny pair of fawn-colored suede pants.  For the lucky few, you can find the 4-inch heeled Chloé “Catlyn” suede lace-up ankle boot at Net-A-Porter.com for $695. And you can find a few pairs left in leather (not suede) for $721 at farfetch.com. Not bad for what will likely be a classic pair of boots.