Welcome to winter! The one time of year where you can shamelessly bitch and moan about how cold your feet are without social repercussion. In honor of this wonderful time of year, and the fact that we’re just over half way through it, I thought I’d bring you a special treat. Ta-Da! A boot round-up!
THIS IS ACTUALLY CARMEN
Lets start by talking about fabric and heel. There was a time when I literally wore my chunky heeled black leather boots every single day with every single outfit. The height of the heel and the mid-range quality leather just made them versatile. This is not always the case. The height of a boot heel can range from completely flat to infinity and can be chunky or hot sexy stiletto style. Most boots you find will be in the one inch to five inch range. Both the material and the cut determine the dressiness of boots. For someone going for a more femme look, a tan mid-calf boot made of distressed leather without a heel will look daytime casual, while a black boot with a stiletto heel, a contoured ankle and a long shaft will look more appropriate for the evening. For someone going for a more butch look, a lower shaft boot with a slight heel in a black or cognac polished leather will look more dapper than a tan, chunkier heeled combat or work style boot. Generally speaking, duller or distressed leather or suede is more casual while polished leather in dark or rich colors tends to be dressier. That being said, these rules cannot be broadly applied to all boots. You really have to take it boot by boot.
VIA HORSESADDLESHOP.COM
When shopping, be aware that leather boots change shape and size as you wear them. Make sure that anyone helping you with boots knows what they are talking about and can help you fit properly, particularly through the toe and inseam. In fact, it might be worth brushing up on your boot terminology so you can best explain what you’re looking for. One very common boot shopping hardness is finding boots that fit around one’s calves or are comfortable on the ankles. If this is a problem for you I strongly suggest using a measuring tape to figure out the circumference at the widest part of your calf and ankle and then ordering boots online. If this freaks you out, try shopping in a specialty boot shop. In most boot shops and department stores you should be able to find boots abundantly common in black and brown, easily found in slate and tan and less commonly seen in red and blue. Both leather and suede are in style and widely available right now, although bright colors are much more common in suede. I would say the availability of colors roughly correlates with how good boots actually look in that color. The exception to this rule is slate which should be the most widely available color of boots because grey boots look fucking awesome.
VIA HORSESADDLESHOP.COM
Though most people have a general sense of how to wear their own personal favorite basic boot, I receive a lot of questions about particular types of boots and how best to achieve just exactly the look/formality/gender expression/awesomeness one might be going for. There also seems to be a lot of confusion about general to tuck or not to tuck. This varies greatly by boot. Thus, I’ve divided some of the most common types of boots in to categories that made sense to me at the time of writing. I’ve done my best to talk about how each particular boot might play a role within your personal style and gender expression. This list is certainly not meant to exhaustive, if it were I would have included mukluks.
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Snow Boots
The thing about snow boots is that they’re the only type of boots you truly absolutely “need.” If you live in a place that gets snow, winter boots are the boot equivalent of Wikipedia. Technically you can get by without it, but it really sucks and you feel cold and alone and it ruins your day. If you don’t have a working pair of winter boots, it means you’re ruining all your other shoes and probably costing yourself tons of money and sadness. I love to wear winter boots in to work and then change in to Sperry’s/Toms/moccasins/slippers.
One of the best things about snow boots is that, since they’re only a “sometimes shoe,” you can go as simple or as crazy as you want. You can find snow boots that look almost exactly like regular leather/sued boots except they’re waterproof or ones so extreme they look like snowboarding boots. Personally, I like Sorels the best because they’re hilariously over the top in terms of “Looking Like Your Dad” but they also come in funky colors.
I have one pair that are black and go up to my knee where they get so furry my dog barks at them and another pair that are ankle height and plaid. That’s right, I have two different pairs of the same brand of snow boots. I live in New England and these are things I need.
As far as I’m concerned, winter boots should always be worn outside your pants. Even if you’re not into skinny jeans or wear particularly baggy pants, winter boots go on top. Otherwise your pants will get wet and salty like the tears you will be crying from how much colder this will make you. Yes, there are winter boots that look just like hiking boots but are winterized, but I don’t think those keep you warm enough.
Higher boots in black or a pattern will look more girly, a lower boot in brown will look more butch, and big chunky classic snow boots are super versatile with respect to gender presentation.
Summary!
When to wear: To and from the place you’re going whenever it’s snowy/wet outside
When not to wear: Inside or at a party where you’ll get sweaty
What to wear them with: Anything! You’re adventuring outside in to the blizzard, but remember the boots always go on top! Try with wool tights and a dress, heavy snow gear and baggy jeans or with a ski vest, plaid shirt and skinny jeans.
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Military Boots
BKLYNBOIHOOD.COM CALENDAR BOI SEBASTIAN
This year military inspired boots are back with a vengeance, which is great since they might just be the best queer boot on the planet. Actually, the boots that are in style are more similar to a traditional “paddock boot” for English horseback riding mixed with your classic combat boot BUT with a thinner sole.
Basically I’m talking about any boot with a flat, or near flat, sole that laces up about 7-10 inches hitting you above the ankle. Your military boot is your everyday, going to the bars, going to work, going to class, going grocery shopping, “taking your dog out” boot.
As long as you’re not sporting a super thick/rugged sole, you can wear military boots just about anywhere besides a semi-formal (or nicer) party. The toned down, pointed toed, stylized military boots that are being shown right now could replace probably half of the other shoes you have.
Military boots usually come in your basic black, brown and grey, but I’m a classic kind of girl and like them best in black. Most of the styles being shown right now have a zipper down the side or back which is awesome because 1. It looks badass and 2. You never have to re-lace them up. It’s also easy to find military boots with a variety of heels. If you like a completely flat boot, they’re definitely available, however, if completely flat boots give you that duck-feet feeling so luckily you can find military style boots with heels. You can, of course, always switch out for the classic lesbian Doc Martin. 
There are three basic ways to wear military boots:
First, you can lace them all the way up and be done with it. This style works over very skinny jeans or under basically any other type of pants. You can also wear your boots like this with tightish pants rolled up to just above the boot.
Second, you can lace them halfway up and tie the laces at the ankles. The half-way lace is best suited for tucked in skinny jeans, straight leg pants or rolled up slightly and pinned flat flares.
Finally, you can lace work boots halfway up and fold over the top. Anita Dolce Vita, Features Editor at dapperQ, pointed out to me that this looks particularly cool if you boots have a colorful or interesting lining.
Another great way to wear military boots is with a dress. It takes the feminine edge off of wearing a dress in a distinctly queer way. I like wearing my black one with floral or overly girlie dresses and skirts to give them an edgy look. You can wear them with low socks so your bare leg just melts right in to the boot or scrunch down a ski sock so it just shows above the lip of the boot. A thick wool tight is also a cute option with a dress or shorts in the winter giving you a ski-bunny appearance.
Summary!
When to wear: Everyday for your normal stuff or out to a relaxed bar
When not to wear: When going to dressier clubs or anything semi-formal or nicer
What to wear them with: Skinny jeans or straight jeans tucked in, looser jeans on the outside, shorts or to give girlier dresses an edgy look.
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Equestrian Boots
VIA HORSELOVE.TUMBLR.COM
If you want to look like Spencer from Pretty Little Liars and/or anyone with a ton of money, the best way to do so is by investing in a pair of riding boots. Riding boots are preppy in the best way possible. Dont’ get actual riding boots, of course, those are expensive and scary, but you can find riding inspired boots anywhere. Your riding boot should come up anywhere from mid-calf to just under the knee and be leather or faux-leather with a flat sole.
Some riding boots, called “field boots,” have laces up the ankles but not all the way up the leg. Traditionally this is meant to support your ankle while riding, non-traditionally this is meant to look awesome/dapper.
Others resemble a more run-of-the-nill black leather boot, which support a harness at the ankle or a strap/buckle at the top. Many riding boots have a distinct cuff at the top which is distinguished by color, texture or even just a seam.
However, riding boots traditionally lack a zipper, which means you’ll often find yourself having to jam your sweaty foot down a boot unless you find one with an elastic panel (which gives your calves some breathing room). But side and back zippers are popping up more often on riding boots these days, hidden on the inner calf or along a seam or sometimes purely visible in a pop of color.
Riding boots provide a more “femme” silhouette while not being totally girly, and therefore they perfectly complement a femme preppy look, such as skinny pants + blazer and/or loose blouse. But riding boots are actually quite versatile — ’cause they lack a high heel, you can wear them to work or other business-casual type settings or throw them on with short dresses or skirts during the day. However, when paired with skirts that go past the knee, riding boots can give you an ‘overly bundled prairie style’ look’ and riding boots also look weird underneath jeans. Riding boots are designed to be worn over riding pants, after all, and the slim foot and lack-of-heel makes them a flop underneath a straight or bootcut leg.
Plus, riding boots can be very expensive, so why hide them! (I also love how riding boots look with a bit of knee high socks sticking out the top!)
Summary!
When to wear: For work, dinner with friends or anytime you want to look particularly preppy. Particularly cute with a blazer. Or horseback riding.
When not to wear: When going a semi-formal event or anyplace they might get trashed
What to wear them with: Skinny jeans, straight jeans or flares tucked in, short skirts or shorts with tights but rarely with longer skirts.
Next: More boots and team member’s top picks!
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Rain Boots
VIA GLOOMY-SUNDAY.NET
I don’t have a ton to say about rain boots. Rain boots err on the side of girly but in black can be pretty androgynous, especially if you pair them with sort of a solemn “It’s Raining in Paris” black trench coat.
Now when I was 17 I shamelessly acquired this overly expensive pair of Burberry boots but I still rock that shit every time there’s a drizzle. They’re the best rainboots on the planet: they’ve yet to spring a leak and the back-zipper saves me from foot-stuffing catastrophes. That zipper is a complete game changer.
Much like snow boots, rain boots are sometimes-shoes so you can get away with more and the many colors/designs provide for fun mixing-it-up times when it’s yucky outside. Remember to tuck in your pants, obviously, lest your pant leg become wet & dirty.
My Picks
Summary!
When to wear: When it’s rainy outside
When not to wear: When it’s not rainy
What to wear them with: Basically anything, as long as you’re okay with looking somewhat femme or sporty.
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Over the Knee Boots
Over-the-knee boots are in the category of “shoe too cool for me to wear.” Previously only visible in go-go costumes or dominatrix outfits, these boots have been making a comeback in everyday style. The latest over-the-knees are like the lovechild of riding boots and go-go-boots and manage to cover your knee in front but not surpass the crease of the back of your knee, thus making them one hundred billion times more comfortable than thigh-high predecessors.
While over-the-knee boots are a truly femme style, super-platform high heels and patent leather will look too costumey. Go for a suede of distressed leather in a light to medium brown with a narrow foot and a flat sole. That way it’s almost like you’re just wearing the most badass riding boots ever.
Over the knee boots can definitely bring up What The Hell Do I Wear With That feelings. A totally safe bet are leggings with a longer blouse/button up. Beware of skirts or dresses with over the knee boots, it can look very costumey/dated.
I think over-the-knees look awesome with short-shorts and tights, but my roommate says it looks trashy. Decide for yourself.
Summary!
When to wear: In casual settings.
When not to wear: Anytime you need to look dressed up/appropriate.
What to wear them with: Leggings and maybe shorts with tights depending on how adventurous you are. Skip skirts on this one.
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Ankle Boots
At the bottom of every boot is an ankle boot, so this is one big fat category. Generally speaking, I think of ankle boots as encompassing three subtypes of boots: booties, Chelsea boots and chukkas.
1. Booties
As you can probably tell from the “ies” ending, booties are the most femme of the three types. These lace-up or zio-up high-heeled boots cut somewhat at the ankle, come in all sorts of styles and colors (I love an oxford pattern), and even look cute as peep-toes or wedges.
Dressier, higher-heeled booties work as a formal attire show and complement an above-the-knee OR full skirt or dress. My favorite aspect of high-heeled booties is that you can wear them with a cornucopia of nicer women’s pants while avoiding the “tuck or not to tuck” dilemma and providing greater accessibility to women with different body types.
Leggings and skinny jeans look great with booties, but wide-leg, boot-cut and straight leg slacks look AWESOME with booties.
Lower-heeled booties can make great casual shoes, look sexy for going out in skinny jeans/leggings and look great with shorts. If your bootie is more sturdy and casual, you can wear it with socks and look adorable and probably could even pull off a cool look with cargo pants.
Though booties are generally a pretty femme trend, you can create a great androgynous gender-bendy look by mixing them with menswear. Imagine how cool black stiletto peeptoe booties might look with a white button-up, suspenders, black pants and slicked back hair!
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2. Chelsea Boots
“Chelsea boots” are like an English riding boot that gave up halfway through: low heeled and tightly fitted, these babies end narrowly at the ankle and sport the Chelsea boot signature of an elastic band on one or both sides. They look great with most cuts of pants and are basically gender-free in terms of styling, which’s great if you want an androgynous work shoe.
Chelsea boots were originally designed as riding boots during the Victorian era but were repopularized in the 60s by the Beatles and then again in the 70s and 80s by their appearance in Star Wars.
There’s a 90% chance your mom has a pair of these. My mom swears they’re super comfortable so they’re great if you work on your feet all day.
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3. Chukkas
Finally I come to chukkas. You might not think you know what a chukka is, but I bet you actually do. They’re those suede hipster ankle boots with only two laces eyelet. What I love about chukkas is that they’re, like Chelsea boots, gender-neutral but, like booties, look awesome with everything.
Because they only lace up a little bit, chukkas walk the line between flats, loafers and ankle boots. You can just as easily wear a pair of black chukkas with a pair of patterned tights and a cute dress as you can a tan pair with straight leg slacks, a button-up and a bow tie. Two equally awesome looks, one type of boot.
They are similarly easy to dress up and dress down.
There’s one rule about chukkas — actually, it’s bout all ankle boots: they just don’t look good with cropped pants. That two-inch band of skin above your ankles between your pants and boots is mega unflattering.
My Picks
Summary!
When to wear: In a casual or semi-formal setting depending on the boot.
When not to wear: In an ultra formal setting
What to wear them with: Anything except cropped pants. No skirts/dresses with Chelsea boots either.
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Comfort Boots
VIA LAURENCONRAD.COM
Some of the most amazing types of boots weren’t necessarily designed for a trip to the club. This category includes sweater boots, Uggs and Ugg-style boots
I’m not hating on Uggs. There’s nothing, and I mean nothing, as satisfying as slipping into some warm soft shearling (or faux shearling) boots first thing in the morning to grab a bagel and walk your dog. They’re like a wonderful hug for your legs.
Similarly, a pair of super soft sweater boots are practically just upgraded socks. If I had a fireplace I would wear sweater boots in front of it every day. Everyday.
However, and this is a big however, I just don’t think boots that are designed for snuggling are appropriate for work, social events or really anywhere you need to look remotely nice. Please withhold your pitchforks and burning. It’s not that there’s anything wrong with being comfortable, but between the hardline top edge and the duck foot; Uggs just don’t create a remotely flattering look.
Summary!
When to wear: At home or while walking to yoga
When not to wear: In any remotely nice setting
What to wear them with: Leggings and your favorite sweatshirt
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Cowboy Boots
LEFT AND RIGHT VIA BOOTEDMAN.COM, CENTER VIA LOOKBOOK.NU
Cowboy boots confuse the hell out of me, but I like them anyway. You see, I was a kid in the eighties and early nineties so I had a pretty sweet pair of white ones when I was three. Since that time, I’ve been living in New England where cowboy boots weren’t a big thing until recently. Now, slowly but surely, it’s starting to look like a rodeo around here.
Due to their ever-increasing popularity, it’s increasingly easy to find pairs in a range of styles/colors, which is great for those with large or small feet. Cowboy boots are also super-sexy on a masculine-of-center girl and offer a way to get a little extra height without looking too girly. The key is subtlety.
Unless you’re actually attending the Pendleton Round-Up, you don’t necessarily want a super flashy boot that will lead you to be known around the neighborhood as “That Girl With the Cowboy Boots.” I like boots with just a little stitching and minimal inlayed color. Additionally, a more distressed leather makes a better boot for casual settings.
An eye towards subtly when wearing cowboy boots should extend to the rest of your outfit also. In order to avoid looking costumey, steer clear of plaids, tucked in button ups, Canadian tuxedos (jeans with denim shirts and a jean jacket) and peasant blouses. These all add to the cowboy costume effect.
Casual cowboy boots are great with shorts, knee length or above skirts or with jeans. If you’re looking for more of a statement or femme look, tuck your jeans in to your boots. Conversely a more subdued or butch style is to wear bootcut or straight leg jeans on the outside of the boots. There is, as with everything, a gradient in between, particularly if you’re actually in the South where men sometimes wear knee length cowboy boots (buckaroos) outside of their jeans. Jeans worn on the outside of cowboy boots should be long enough that they fold over/scrunch a bit in the front, but not so long that they drag in the back.
But if you’re a Southern or Midwestern dweller with masculine-of-center leanings, cowboy boots have a whole other non-denim world to explore. Dressy cowboy boots (which can easily surpass $400) work underneath slacks in lieu of loafers, oxfords or derby shoes. Dress cowboy boots can even be worn with a tux to some southern black tie events (usually the invite with specify Wester Black Tie). Keep in mind, however, that this is limited to high quality polished leather or snakeskin boots.
One last thing to be careful of when buying cowboy boots. Make sure they properly fit in the toes. I bought a beautiful pair about four years ago. Unfortunately I quickly discovered that if I tried to open a door the toes were so long that the door bounced back at me. If you have more questions regarding the fit and wear of cowboy boots I suggest checking out Bootedman.com’s guide to cowboy boots.
My Picks
Summary!
When to wear: When it’s dry outside. For casual fun or clubbing in the North, also for work and formal events (with suits only) in the South and Midwest
When not to wear: To formal events in the North
What to wear them with: Pants, short, suits or flowy dresses. Avoid getting to cowboyed up with tucked in plaid button-ups.
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Vegan Boots
VIA NEFFFY.TUMBLR.COM
Many people chose not to wear leather or other animal skins for a variety of reasons. This can be tough with boots. Obviously rain boots and snow boots come vegan-standard, but it can be really tricky to find good quality faux leather boots, especially if you’re also looking to avoid unfair labor practices and thus forego cheap-faux-leather shoes from mass-production stores.
Your local show store might not have very many good quality vegan boot options, so I suggest hitting the internet. Plenty of online shops, such as Novacas and Moo Shoes, sell exclusively vegan shoes. Alternatively, you can also just select “faux leather” on many mainstream shoe shopping websites, such as Zappos. Whatever your choice, remember two things:
First, because no natural leather is involved, finding vegan boots should actually be cheaper. Second, because no natural leather is involved, you may have to shop around more or even pay more (contradictory, I know) in order to find a high quality vegan boot.
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Team Picks
Given the option to pick a boot, this is what our amazing staff and affiliates came up with:
Lizz: Sorel Tivoli Boots and OTBT Hutchinson Boots
Jamie: Loretta Vegan Ankle Boots from Novacas
Brittani: TBL 6-Inch Waterproof Flat Wedge and Men’s 6-Inch Basic Waterproof Boot
(“I got mine in high school and they were both like special editions so they’re a little different and thus cooler but whatevs.”)
Anita Dolce Vita, DapperQ Features Editor: Steve Madden Cablee Boots and Sperry Top-Sider Starpoint
Laneia: Frye Harness 15R
Carmen: Laredos
Rachel: Dr. Martens Castel 8-Eye Boot
Laura: Clarks Saloon Dillon
Sara Medd: All Saints Vintage Damisi Boot
Well there you have it, a nowhere near complete guide to getting your queer boots on. Whether you just can’t live without your wellies or you’re finally figuring out how to style cowboy boots, there’s no better time to catch boot fever than in the middle of the winter heading in to spring. So everyone share your boot stories!
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I gotta say, the second set of “military boots” look more like paddock boots (“equestrian” boots) than do the “equestrian boots.”
But I also don’t know too much about non-horse-related fashion, so.
Perhaps my catagory naming was slightly off. I think everything will be okay though.
Excuse me while I cry.
The Steve Madden (?) boot that folds over and has the zipper on the back…they call it a “combat” boot…it looks exactly like my paddock boots…right down to the arena dust lol.
I have that boot in gray w/ blue zipper!! I love it, I wear it everyday.
I feel like military and equestrian style overlap because if you look at it historically speaking, military soldiers use to ride horses, right? …. soooo yeah, there’s gotta be some conflation of the categories.
Yes. That.
I think actually, while you’re definitely right about “military” or “combat” boots looking more utilitarian and more like something you’d wear in a horse paddock, the “equestrian” boot or “riding” boot is specifically designed for RIDING the horse, not just taking care of them. They’re tall to protect your legs from the saddle, etc (read more here, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Riding_boot).
Oh gosh, don’t cry! This is a well-researched and entertaining and provocative and beautifully crafted article! Fashion is overwhelming and confusing and there you are, marching out into the world and trying to make some sense of it for us, with sexy photos and two whole pages of entertainment and everything.
MAD RESPECT!
This is very relevant to my interests… also very bad for my wallet.
Boooots! I want all of the boots!
I especially want a pair of solid yellow rainboots that are well made but don’t cost a bazillion dollars like Hunters do. Any suggestions?
You can try Tretorns–they’re super comfortable and well-made. I have yellow ones and they are awesome. :)
http://www.6pm.com/tretorn-skerry-reslig-rubber-rain-boot-yellow-2
http://www.zappos.com/tretorn-skerry-rubber-rain-boot-yellow-2
Ooh, those looks perfect–thank you!
…i need to rob a bank
In order to buy boots, or just for giggles?
maybe you should just rob a boot store. cuts out the middleman?
Boots are kind of my thing..I worked in a shoe store all through college..Employee discount helped solidify my footwear obsession..I have 2 shoe closets..It’s a sickness and I don’t care if there’s a cure..I love me some boots!
Don’t cure it, that’s like your lesbian dowry. I know a ton of girls it would work on: you wouldn’t just be getting a partner, you’d be getting access to two closets full of shoes.
Ooh..Hadn’t thought of that…New pick-up line..”So..What’s your shoe size?”
Exactly. And the way you take her home *and* get her into your room? “Wanna see my closet?” ;D
True story, when my girlfriend asked me to move into her house she actually said “you can have a whole closet for your shoes.” I think she knows me too well ;)
i need to print this out and save it forever. i’ve lived in chicago for three years and still feel like i don’t know what to do with boots. they’re so pretty but i haven’t bought any beyond the purely functional snow boots. this is because in my hometown of miami, the most popular boot-look is the uggs with a short skirt thing when it drops to 50 degrees outside.
anyway. very helpful. thank you!
I do love boots, but every time I go to buy new pair I just end up with another pair of Dr Martens. A girl can never have too many DM’s!
I have a pair of chunky bright red DMs and I love them so much, even though wearing them in was hellish!
It’s the worst isn’t it, every time I get a new pair I forget about the pain, until I’m crying when I’m walking down the street!
Sorel Tivoli’s are the best snow boots I have ever owned… They also make a really awesome rain boot version in a million pretty colors!
yep! I bought Tivoli’s this winter and couldn’t be happier.
yup tivolis are great! i got tired of winter boots that got salty in 5 minutes and/or started letting water in, so i was like RUBBER SURROUNDING ENTIRE FOOT, YES. and yeah..these this are indestructible.
correction, i have Caribou’s…basically a higher tivoli…google image ambiguity.
throw some spats on military boots and BAM formal.
I just really want to need a snow boot right now.
Beautiful article. Just when I was shopping for a new pair of boots too! My favorite pair of cowboy boots are actually ankle high, which helps make them more appropriate for city settings I think, but I find it so funny to see all these English girls walking around in very western cowboy boots. Not even in the right country!
If you live in the North, Bean boots are a thing. L.L. Bean also makes some great leather riding-style boots, which I own/love.
And they back it with a 100% satisfaction guarantee..I recently called to order new “Duck Boots” because my 10 year old pair had worn through the rubber sole..The Customer Service rep urged me to send them back instead..And L.L. Bean sent me a friggin new pair! I love Bean..Bean is the Bomb!
it’s a little late in the season for winter boots where I am since it’s starting to warm up and we’re really heading into march now, but I have to say I have a weakness for over the knee boots (though I think they need to be worn with a specific look), and I also own too many pairs of cowboy boots.
All the boots!
There is no such thing as “too many pairs of cowboy boots” That my dear is LesBlasphemy
Sorel Tivoli plaid boots? Yes, I own them. And I also own a pair of red ones. I’m addicted to Sorel snow boots.
I also own riding boots, the real, evil kind that will leave sores on the backs of your knees and blisters all over your feet. But they look gorgeous. And they’re not made for walking anywhere, ever. I’d have sex in them though. You don’t have to walk during sex, mostly. Just sayin’
BOOTS ARE IMPORTANT.
Also the category of military boots was sorely lacking in combat boots? For which Doc Martens are the classic solution. I personally have a pair of John Fluevog Angel Derby Swirls, which are like DMs but better, I’m convinced. Really anything that Fluevog sells is pure magic.
I also recently obtained a pair of black equestrian boots by an Austrian company called Gabor, and they’re amazing. Not sure if they’re available stateside, but they make a fantastic boot :)
That lack of combat boots was sort of somewhat intentional. I don’t personally find the thick sole kind of combat boot to be as versatile as the flatter sole style military boot. That doesn’t mean you can’t still wear doc martins and love them forever.
Alright, guys. Are more expensive boots really worth it? I go to school on a huge campus and walk about 2 miles a day just going to class. Coupled with New England weather changes this has led me to ruin THREE pairs of rain boots and 2 pairs of regular boots in five semesters.
Just because a boot is expensive, doesn’t mean it’s well made..Materials play a huge factor..So does manufacturing (as I stated earlier..I sold shoes for 4 years) Man-made vs leather vs fabric..How about the sole..Material? Thickness? Is it layered and if so..How are the layers formed? Also, also, also..If you look at that pic of of Toe shapes, You will see single stitch vs double stitch..These are all things to consider when buying a boot/shoe for lasting use and comfort..
My favourite pair of military boots gave up the ghost a few weeks ago, after two years of being worn every day. So I can actually get new boots now, and it’ll be legit!
I didn’t realise how many pairs of boots I owned until I read this article.
My favourite are a riding/equestrian pair, similar to the awesome ones Molly Ringwald wore in The Breakfast Club but better, if that’s possible, as I’m not gonna lie – hers were pretty pimpin’.
BOOTS ARE MY FAVORITE FASHION THING EVER. I think I wear boots at least 6 days of the week, regardless of the season. I have six pairs and can never get them to last more than a year, I wear out the soles so much.
I desperately need cowboy boots, though. And military boots. And over-the-knee boots. I clearly need to go shopping.
Also, I have Coach snow boots, and while they actually have zero insulation, need 2 pairs of thermal socks underneath, and don’t really work in over 4 inches of snow, they’re ADORABLE. So yea.
Re: Ugg-like things. I have some and they’re pretty much the most comfortable thing ever. All of my other boots are nice and pretty, and dammit if I want to wear leggings and comfy boots with a long sweater one day, then I’m going to. Judge me all you want, I’m just warm.
I really <3 boots.
You know what goes great with boots? Cats. http://youtu.be/Nni0rTLg5B8
YOU GUYS, I cannot recommend these Merrell boots enough: http://www.merrell.com/US/en-US/Product.mvc.aspx/12564W/0/Womens/Tetra-Launch-Waterproof
I came into a pair (in brown) last fall and they are 1) incredibly comfortable, 2) totally waterproof – seriously I wore them on assignment in pouring rain for two days and my feet were completely dry, and 3) reasonably warm without being too hot.
They have changed my life I love them so hard.
I met my best friend (also gay) when I was in college. I tend to come off so femme most people never realize I’m mega gay, so after a hanging out a bit I figured I should give him the memo. He laughed and said he knew before we ever met, of course I asked how and he replied, “I noticed you walking across campus in those combats boots…only a dyke could rock those!” Lmao.
Boots for the win!
I feel like a bad lesbian for only owning one pair of boots, which I only wear while riding horses. These all look so lovely though, I might have to buy some.
i love the leather/wingtip hipster-style boots that are all over Forever 21 and H&M like nobody’s business. i must have atleast 1 pair in my closet at all times.
there is nothing like wearing a pair of those/converses after theyve been broken in. SO COMFORTABLE, FOOT HUGS ZOMG.
I wear my combat boots as my dress shoes…and no one knows the difference. Its gone through semi-formal, job interviews, internship, work…and costuming related stuff. I do keep them in pretty good shape and polished… so that might be why no one can tell lol
Now i want to go and buy a pair of knee high boots since i just returned a pair which didn’t fit me like i thought it would…
Oh, Lizz, you have no idea how much joy this post fills me with. It’s like porn for boot lovers. Thanks especially for the diagrams about the different parts and toes of a boot, now I can express exactly what I’m looking for :)
MOTORCYCLE BOOTS.
Ummmm how in god’s name could you forget motorcycle boots, when pretty much every girl with whom I’ve clam jammed was wearing Fryes when I gave her a dyke-nod from across the room, and subsequently approached her, saying, “Hey, may I buy you a drink?”
I’m borderline offended that you failed to include these.
And Blundstones or R.M. Williams’ depending on which continent you’re Nancy Sinatra-ing.
Totally bumming that you didn’t devote entire categories to the aforementioned dykifiers.
I guess I sort of figured motorcycle boots look like the riding boots I posted but cut at the calf.
Those brands don’t really have any currency outside the land down under though do they?
I can’t justify the expense of R.M. Williams ($300 for ‘work’ boots?!?), but I do like me some Blunstones. They’re great for when you want something sturdy that isn’t hiking boots.
I like some boots, but it’s hard to find ones that I like that fit. I have ridiculously small ankles so generally they’re massive around the ankle and my foot comes half way out when I try to take a step.
ohhh thank you i lovvvveeee boots.. combat to stilleto heel they are sssssssssssssssssssooooooooooooooooooooooooo!!!!!!!!!!!!!! SEXY!!! Drool :)
I love boots! Thank you for this, it’s a fantastic reference. I have a lovely pair of snow boots that work for semi-formal events/being inside, actually – they are furry on the inside, and they roll down, to just above the ankle, so it’s this very classy fur boot thing going on (fake fur!), but not terribly warm. And as soon as you step outside, you can roll up the “shaft” and be warm again.
I also have to disagree with you a little re: equestrian boots with longer skirts. I have a lovely pair of equestrian boots (these, actually: http://www.6pm.com/ak-anne-klein-caryn-black-leather) that I adore pairing with a heather grey knee-length A-line skirt, especially with a patterned tight underneath. Very classy, femme, understated.
I love this post.
I think my bank account/wife probably don’t though.
I just feel like the Americans ruined the uggboot for us Australians. They were never meant to be an outside boot! They are strictly to be worn inside preferably while wearing trackies, pjs or a dressing gown.
There is no number of times I can properly +1 this.
But then the disease spread back to Oz! At my high school we had no uniforms, and there was one girl in particular who I swear wore uggs and a denim mini for two years solid, rain hail or shine.
i have doc martens chukkas and they are beyond awesome. additionally they required no wearing in period and were instantaneously comfortable, unlike the regular 8 hole docs which i also find just have too much ankle space. though, those are classics for a reason (sweet, sweet silhouette)
p.s. my dream boots (due to ridiculously exorbitant price) are those fiorentini and baker boots that raquel zimmermann always seems to be wearing
Aw, my favorite boot style isn’t listed here (“Granny boots”! – victorian-esque midcalf lace-ups with a thick medium heel)… Does that mean my boots aren’t queer enough? ;)
No, it just means that I don’t specifically own a pair and thus didn’t think of them.
Thanks to this post I have spent the past hour looking at boots online….thanks lol
This article is so helpful and related to my interests~
however, I still have two questions:
-Is there some kind of boot that is appropriate in more formal settings?(except cowboy boots in the south)
-What about motocycle boot? Do you have to tuck your pants into them?
Now I’m sad because I want a pair of military boots in brown and I’ll never be able to find one because my feet are awfully small. (35 eu apparently 4 and half in american shoes system).
Life is very hard for undersized feet people.
Size 5 here, i feel your pain! Its really hard to find my size in stores, and my adventures in online buying have been very hit and miss.
Oh how I love boots! I recently dedicated one of my long rambling Tumblr blog posts to that very topic. Although it was more about boots in Paris but whatever. This article is just making me want to buy all the kinds I do not own!
I was so inspired by this post that I went out and bought two more pairs of boots today. I think I have a problem.
I’M SO EXCITED ABOOT THIS POST :D
I absolutely wear my favourite pair of cowboy boots everyday. No shame.
Best place to get boots ever: http://greenshoes.co.uk/
Vegan lorica and customized fit… I wear my favorite pair of boots everyday, too :)
Man, the U.K. is really the only place that seems to manufacture decent, high-quality vegan boots. Wonder why? My first pair were the vegan Gripfast steel-toed grinders, which I have searched the internet for in vain ever since they stopped making them. Recently got these guys — http://www.vegetarian-shoes.co.uk/womens_boots/vintage_boot_black/13870_p.html — from Vegetarian Shoes, which are nearly as good — a little more stylish, if possibly a little less hardcore, and required no breaking in. Fully recommended.
Vegetarian Shoes rocks my world. I discovered the Veggie Trekker Mk 4 on their website (for when I want to clomp around in the snow and feel like a badass), and then was able to order them in the US via Vegan Essentials.
That Vintage Boot is pretty fantastic.
This is perfect timing! The end of winter is the perfect time to buy boots because they’re on sale and I need at least 2 new pairs. Thanks for the inspiration!
yay for riding boots and over the knee boots, my favorite kind of shoes. i wear otk boots with short skirts and dresses (with tights) all the time. my belief is as long as it’s a flat over the knee boot, you don’t look so hoochified if you pair a short skirt or dress with it during the daytime. they balance each other out and you’re pretty covered. all you’re showing is upper thigh. i would never wear a high heeled over the knee boot unless i was going to the club or unless i was wearing it with pants or leggings. and i used to go to school in upstate new york where it snowed non stop every 10 seconds and i got a pair of hunter rain boots and wore them in the snow and rain. they’re waterproof either way, and i wore them with boot socks in the snow for warthm.
YAY FINALLY A PICTURE OF THE BEATLES IN THIS PLACE. As someone who continues to be strongly influenced by the Beatles in my fashion choices, I am very pleased to see them representing Chelsea boots. Although, I’ve been trying to find a satisfactory pair forever, and I haven’t found them yet. I might be too picky. BUT BOOTS ARE JUST SO EXPENSIVE. And I know that’s obvious, but ugh.
This was a very enlightening article though. Especially seeing as I found Autostraddle because I was looking for a place that talked about fashion from a non-heteronormative perspective. xD YAY MORE FASHION ARTICLES! <3
This is like the damn jackpot for a girl who had only worn Chuck Taylors and Adidas indoor soccer sneaks and then had to buy boots when she moved to DC. The cheap rookie ones I got are already tearing apart. A new purchase will be made asap.
COWBOY BOOTS!
Can anyone recommend me a good brand for long-lasting, authentic ones? I know of Frye but they are hella $$$$ and probably not too authentic. I should have picked up a pair of good cowboy boots when I lived down south haha
I have some Frye boots and if they’re not too far out of your price range I do recommend them. They’re super comfy and have lasted me more than a year so far of pretty constant usage. I think Ariat boots are a bit cheaper although maybe not by much. You could go to zappos.com or bootbarn and do some investigating?
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CARMEN!!! I have your boots!! No seriously, though. I have those exact style of boots. Down to the lace hooks and fringe. I got them at the Goodwill.
I am in fact grateful to the owner of this website who has shared this enormous post at at this
place.
And a lonely voice whines in the distant past, “why won’t anyone make a decent vegan tanker boot”
Why to this very day
Thanks for this informative article.
Thanks to this post I have spent the past hour looking at boots online
gbwa