These gorgeous black leather mid calf boots are from Poetry and retail for R2299 – buy them here
Winter’s here and I though a post about how to buy the perfect pair of winter boots is in order. While there are many styles available to choose from, it’s important to know what to look before making a purchase.
Before heading out to the shops, decide on the length of boot you want and choose one that is most suitable to you.
The mid-calf boot
I think the most wearable style is a mid-calf in either brown on black leather as they’re ideal for everyday wear. I also think it’s better to invest in a flat style – not only is it more comfortable, you can wear it for both casual and more formal occasions. If you don’t own this style of boot, then it’s an investment you need to make.
I love the Rare Earth Laurian Boots (below) R1299 from Poetry – Buy them here
The waterproof boot
If you live in CT, or a city that experiences a lot of winter rain, a great pair of stylish, waterproof boots are a must-have. Obviously they shouldn’t be leather. Here, you’ll want a good quality rubber. While there are a range of colours and bold patterns available, I’d recommend you choose a basic colour like black or grey, as these classic colours will work with almost any outfit.
My favourite pair are the Kamikaze Jennifer Boots in grey (below) R999 from Poetry – Buy them here
The ankle boot
This style has had a huge resurgence over the past few years, and with good reason too. Not only is it fashionable, it’s the perfect style to wear with trousers, especially flared or bootleg styles (these tend to suit most women). Ankle boots also look good when worn with opaque tights (in the same, or similar colour to the boot) and a skirt.
I adore the L7R 11206 Glitter Boots R2299 from Poetry (below) – Buy them here
The well heeled boot
If your height is an issue and you’re set on a style with a heel, bear the following in mind:
- Choose a block heel that’s sturdy and comfortable
- Make sure the style offers good foot support and fits correctly. There shouldn’t be too much room inside for your foot to slip around.
- A wedge style is a great option
I think the L&R 43305 R2499 from Poetry are perfect if you’re looking for a higher heel boot. Buy them here
Here are my four favourite styles from Poetry
Before purchasing your boots
- Consider the material of the boot. Leather & suede are the best options for winter as they keep feet warm. Be prepared to pay more for real leather – synthetic styles look cheap and smell bad after a few wears. Also, they don’t last. Real leather, if cared for properly will last for years.
- While high stiletto boots may look sexy, they’re a bit unpractical for everyday wear. Only once you have your basic pair of boots sorted, consider investing in this style.
- Mid calf styles should fit properly over the calf and should not cause any discomfort. If you’re planning on wearing the boots with your jeans or pants, measure your calves with them on to ensure that they’ll fit.
How to clean them
- If you’re investing R1000 upwards (and for a quality pair of boots, you will be), it makes sense to care for them correctly.
- Always wipe your boots down with a soft, damp cloth after wearing them to remove any mud, sand or other debris.
- Treat them to a monthly polish and feed with a leather cream feed to keep them in tip-top condition. Read more about how to care for you leather shoes & boots here.
Tips
- My best tip for keeping my mid-calf boots shape is to fold up two old magazines and stick them inside each boot. This keeps them upright and prevents them from buckling and falling to the side.
- I keep the original boxes and when the warmer weather rolls around, carefully pack them away.
Do you have any tips for caring for or buying winter boots?
