One thing I have always loved is a nice pair of boots. A nice pair of distressed, individual and creative boots. And recently I have become OBSESSED with finding boots that represent all 3. Military boots have always been 'my thing' typically, but due to lack of funds in previous times I have never been able to afford the beautiful, durable and 'real' bigger brand styles. Hence, most of my military boots have died a fast and painful death (you can always rely on Primark, right?...).
So, with my new job and my lovely wage-slip full of money from extra overtime, I thought I would start by casually browsing for some on eBay. With it being spring/summer season, not alot of stores are stocking boots and if they are they are foul and vile designs. That and the fact that the military trend seems to have died, although I personally think they are a timeless style. That being said, I had alot of luck with eBay. And I didn't settle for just 1 pair...
Okay, so lets begin with my 4 (yes, 4!) new pairs of boots!
Distressed Black Lace ups with Buckle Detail
Price: £19.00
From: eBay
RRP: £75.00
Brand: River Island
These beauties were the first pair I purchased on impulse. They were advertised at a cheap price, a good brand and true to the seller's word, had only been worn once or twice. Although distressed with some detail added to them, I love the casual simple looks that these boots can create with that slight rock and roll edge. I love wearing this style with the laces untied and the tounges hanging loose. They look great with a pair of chinos, a vest and an unbuttoned check shirt.
Cropped Black Zip/Lace Up Double Eyelets
Price: £20.00
From: eBay
RRP: £80
Brand: River Island
Another pair from River Island. I love the easy-peasy appeal that these cropped boots have. The double eyelets certainly add to it's charm, not making them look too generic which is why for that price I had to have them! This particular style really can go with anything which is why I love them. I'd pair them with a pair of straight-legged jeans loosely tucked in or over the boots, a casual t-shirt and a hoodie. Simple!
Beige Suede Studded Strap Boots
Price: £49
From: eBay
RRP: £129.00
Brand: H by Hudson
I absolutely fell, and I mean fell, in love with these as soon as I saw them. They are literally a certain style of boots I have dreamed of having. H by Hudson is a great brand that has some of the most amazing designs in footwear I have ever seen as they are very trendy with that classic appeal. The type of footwear I crave and love. But what made me want these boots more than anything was their similarity to Vivienne Westwood's signature pirate boots. A pair of boots I have wanted for a long long time. Although these are more like a cropped version without a buckle. But it wouldn't surprise me if that was the inspiration for this particular style of boot. Very steam-punk, very timeless.
I'd personally pair these boots with some slim fit dark jeans, a vest and a leather jacket. Punk with a twist.
Distressed Chocolate Zip/Lace Ups
Price: £75.00
From: eBay
RRP: £150
Brand: All Saints
Last, but most certainly not least - All Saints boots. I have wanted a pair of All Saints boots for a long, long, long time. Although All Saints' designs when it comes to clothes are AMAZING, their quality, and for me personally, their sizing lets them down. However, their boots are another story. These boots may appear like a mediocre, simple pair of military lace ups. However, when they're on you they look so individual, so trendy that they make whatever else you're wearing it with look amazing. At first these appeared very tight, however with some wearing in they became more lose and moulded to my feet pretty easily. And with that, came more signs of distress which completely adds to them. I think these are most probably my favourite out of the lot. They are honestly just the most beautiful pair of shoes I have ever owned and at the price I got them for I really can't complain!
Since I bought them I have paired them with some slim fitting chinos, a low necked T-shirt and a light denim unbuttoned shirt. Perfect for a night out or a party. With these I will tend to go for a more tailored look when it comes to my clothes as I think that works best when having a pair of boots completely laced up. But I can experiment with these which is another reason I love them!
To tie up this post, here is a picture of all of them together. So I pretty much have a pair of boots for every occasion. And they are of good quality and all are fashionable in their own individual way. Overall I have spent a fair bit of money on these, but they are totally worth it. And as I said earlier, military boots are a timeless style to own. So guys, stock up. These look great on every guy...oh and did I mention I have 2 more pairs on the way? What?! I can't help myself. They're great!
Next time I'll post my 2 new pairs of boots and whatever new Items I have bought recently which I haven't shown you guys yet...see ya soon!
- Lee
