WADING INTO WINTER
That time again, for Winter Boots, the grey clouds have after a long battle with the Indian Summer, overthrown London. The leaves are covering the grounds in Hyde Park, in vibrant colours, reminiscent of those summer days when the ground was green and far from wet. The air is crisp, but cold, time to finally dig into the winter wardrobe, and indulge into your waders.
My favourites? These classic leather Jimmy Choo boots.
When our heritage Hunter boots filed for administration earlier this year (to be saved by some investors), it spurred me to revisit these everlasting classics, and by that dive into - what a great winter boot should be all about.
Warm, growing up in Sweden, people kept talking about the importance of warm soles. Preferably a thick one, preventing the cold from creeping up from the frozen ground. Ideally, topped up with a double pair of woolen socks, was the most soaked after winter style, however back then maybe not the most fashionable one - luckily lately, some chunky trends have changed this.
High, living in London, the rain does at times “splash” down, having a higher boot prevents the rain from sneaking into the shoe and has become an all winning concept, at least for me, ditching my previously preferred Chelsea boots.
Waterproof, not to dissuade anyone from coming to London, (the sun does shine sometimes) having a waterproof boot is a bit of a life safer here. Somehow, taxis always decide to not exist when downpour incepts and those short walks can end with very cold and wet feet quickly.
Neutral colour, as mentioned in my book (out soon) How to build a sustainable wardrobe, I embrace “neutral colours” as a predominant thing when creating your closet. Think these boots will go with your entire winter wardrobe, the colour has to work with all of it. For me, I chose black, as I know for sure it goes with my apparel, plus you can't see those mud stains so easily, I would suggest either that or dark brown.
Material, emphasizing my mantra “buy less, buy better”. I strongly suggest choosing a pair of boots with quality in mind, as hopefully these will wade many winters with you. In future, when the sole feels tired, please amend them instead of discharge them. I would opt for leather as it is the strongest material (hoping in the future to have a mushroom leather alternative) and can act both as waterproof and easily be repaired with the right shoe repairers.
Timeless, please opt for a timeless design. Continuing from my above statement “buy less,buy better”, I also suggest to avoid any trendy options as ideally you want to invest in not only quality but also a timeless and beautiful design, that again, will last many seasons. For me, it's the classic riding boot design, with it’s sleek outline and elegant high-rise that has survived not only the transport change from horse to car, but also still is championed by classic houses such as Hermés.
From left: Hermés Riding Boot, RTW Catwalk Fall 23, Chloé, COS, Loewe, COS Boot and Reformation.
WINTER BOOT SHOPPING GUIDE
Crafted from chrome-free leather, these classic riding boots are designed to hit just below the knee. They have durable stacked heels and practical pull on loops.
£270
Hereu's black Annella boots are shaped from smooth leather and set on a low-stacked heel and accented by woven pull tabs, typifying the label's craftsmanship.
£530
This iconic boot in calfskin is inspired by the equestrian universe, making it a true classic investment piece.
£2,120
This timeless veg tanned leather boot, is sleek and wears well over time.
£498
'Kate' knee boots encapsulate the western style a chic way. They've been made in Italy from supple leather and detailed with traditional stitching.
£1,380
These boots are crafted from supple leather and have a roomy knee-high shape. The heel offers subtle lift while being comfortable enough to wear all day.
£835
These have been crafted in the label's Italian atelier from butter-soft leather in a 'Saddle Brown' hue that'll go with so many outfits.
£1,580
Clare Waight Keller, who brings effortless sophistication to the Uniqlo brand has designed these faux leather boots for a special collection, available online now.
£59.90
Timeless leather riding boots in a polished smooth finish, featuring a rounded toe, low stacked heels and a classic curved shaft.
£239