After oh, about ten orders and the boyfriend starting to wonder about my level of crazy, I've come to the realization that each pair offers a different thing - perhaps a slight wedge, a flat sole, a riding style, or even an over-the-knee (a no go for me). This means that I'll have to re-evaluate my wants and see which number of boots can best fit them because there truly isn't just one magical pair that will go with every outfit.
Anyhow, here are some of the boots I've ordered and tried on and not kept. Please forgive the poor quality of photos and shooting locations (still trying to find the best place in the condo for photos). Not pictured are Coach Benitas, Loft OTK flat suede boots, and Frye Missy Short Cuffs.
1.) Frye Maxine Loop Pull-On $187
These ended up being just as clunky as they look. They were heavy and far too wide in the shaft. They were also too masculine for my taste. Return!
2.) dV by Dolce Vita Travis $61
Super comfy and super cheap. Clearly a winner right? However, TPFers convinced me that they were unflattering (and rightly so). That and I realized how high school I looked and felt in them. Return!
3.) Coach Natale Boots $283
Beautiful leather, characteristic of Coach products. A bit heavy (due to the hardware) and true to size (the only time I fit a 5.5 in boots). Not a fan of the slick bottoms which were inflexible, requiring some cobbler work and more $. Return!
4.) Frye Jane Three Ring $150
High quality boots, characteristic of Frye products, but I couldn't get over the brass rings despite the price for the brand. Flattering boot, but a different style of Janes perhaps. Plus my left foot didn't feel particularly comfortable shifting around in the footbed. Return!
5.) Kors by Michael Kors Bromleys $150
A cheaper alternative to the Stuart Weitzman 50/50s and clearly that. The toe was much too pointy, the shiny silver zipper far too prominent, the leather quality poor, and the neoprene in the back not stretchy and fitted but loose and unflattering. The boots were not as comfortable as the 50/50s out of the box but felt stiff. Return, return, return!
6.) Stuart Weitzman 50/50s $374
Stunning, buttery soft leather and surprisingly flattering. The boots were amazingly comfortable. They are a pull-on, over-the-knee style, so only jeggings, leggings, or tights only I think. The price was a bit too steep for me (even though the original price is $595) so that was a huge factor in my not keeping them. I also didn't care for the bunching around the ankle, but that kind of happens with a lot of boots. A hesitant return.
I am anticipating the delivery of the Nine West Cookin' in black leather. Inexpensive and a basic style. A recipe for keeps right? Fingers crossed!