Jack Frost Can Nip Someone Else's Toes, Thank You

All of these winter snowstorms have got us going crazy for winter boots  and there's even more snow expected to come into our area tomorrow! In the search for a great boot, we're torn between fashion and function, especially when we think how we'll be navigating the snowy channels on our way to work. The trick is, of course, finding a boot that is practical, warm, but still looks good. While we haven't found "the perfect boot," we have found a number of boots that will suit your needs.  Take a look below!

We are huge fans of of the Sorel Tivoli boot, which looks like a hybrid of a rain boot and snow boot. It's waterproof, with great traction and fur lining... what else can you want in a winter boot? We especially love the plaid pattern, and think this is the perfect casual boot for a girl with a fun sense of style.

No discussion of serious winter boots can go without a shout out to the famous Russian Valenki boots. While not the most gorgeous choice out there, they will keep your feet warm and dry. They come with removable galoshes, which they suggest you wear if the snow is more slush than powder. Made of 100% wool, these boots actually form to fit your feet, which is very Back to the Future Part II.  You know these are the real deal... those Russians don't mess around when it comes to the snow.

Another more "serious" winter boot are the Janey boots by Northface. Like the Valenki boots, they come equipped for slush with a rubber sole. They are also water proof, have a faux fur lining, and are made from recycled materials. We also love the side laces... très chic.

 Wearing hot pink never looks serious but, kid you not, this is a serious winter boot. Moon Boots are a a ski fashion staple and are super warm, waterproof, and incredibly lightweight. When you slip them on, you feel like you're walking on air... or perhaps the moon.  They come in an array of colors and styles, but are known for their rounded, oversized shape.

Back in 1996, Timberland boots were all the rage. Best known for their iconic yellow work boots, Timberland boots dominated hip hop fashion in the 1990s, but have since faded out of the cultural mainstream. You still see them around nowadays, but what many people don't realize is that the company offers so many different styles, such as this winter lace-up boot. With a rubber sole and fleece lining, this boot is perfect for the winter and is very sleek and stylish. One word of caution: that many laces can be a huge pain in the winter if you have frozen fingers. But we're a huge fan of lace-ups, so we'll take it!

 Another tall, lace-up boot we love is the Winter Transit boot by Columbia. To us, this is the embodiment of urban winter footwear. It's fashionable, sleek, subtle, and practical, which is exactly what you need this winter. It's waterproof, with faux fur lining and a rubber sole for extra traction. It sort of reminds us of something that Russian soldiers would march in in the war against Napoleon... and we know how well that turned out!

Meet the Ugg boot's greatest rival... the Emu boot.  Also made in Australia with sheepskin lining, the Emu boot gets a lot of comparisons to the famous Aussie brand, and is currently facing a law suit from the company. If you check out their website, you'll definitely see the similarity, but this Armadale boot is a different style, and we're really liking the look of it. It looks more equestrian than the typical Ugg boot, is covered in leather rather than suede, and has an interesting top shape.

The classic Ugg boot is the most popular winter boot around. While we were haters of the boot a few years ago, we've come around after actually trying them on. They are incredibly warn and comfortable, and are seriously perfect for a cold winter night. But when it snows or rains, you're in trouble, because the boot isn't waterproof, leaving you with wet feet and stained suede. So if you want a serious winter boot, but love the warmth of Uggs, try the Adirondack boot by Uggs. We're partial to the camel color, although it's also available in dark brown and black. The boot is waterproof with extra traction and, of course, the Ugg staple -sheepskin lining throughout.



Here's to walking in a winter wonderland!



XOXO,



Jen & Saira

Fall Fashion: Combat Boots

If you stepped outside of your house this weekend then you know -- fall is finally here! We posted last week about how the military look is back, and this extends to footwear! Combat boots are a very stylish, and very practical look for this fall. Keep your feet warm and dry and still be in mode. Here are some ways to put your best foot forward:

Play it rough in these chic lace-up combat boots by Steve Madden. Wear them with skinny jeans and a cropped coat, or with tights and a floral skirt for a nice contrast.

For something more edgy, try this zip-up boot by Nine West. Not only does the zipper add some bling, it's a lot easier to zip up than lace up! And you can always unzip just a little and fold over the top for a more casual, slouchy look.

For a non-leather alternative, try this field boot available at Urban Outfitters. It's a slightly more feminine version of the combat boot, with the low heel, subtle stitching, and rounded toe. FYI, the reviews state that the boot runs big, so go for a size up.

Love the utilitarian style, but want something more feminine? Then try on this lace-up ankle bootie from Steve Madden. It's what we imagine the Spice Girls would wear when acting as soldiers during World War I. Rugged but delicate, camouflaged but chic. Power to the world! 

Of course, no list is complete without the classic Doc Martens. These iconic lace-ups are reminiscent of the angst of the early 90s, and if flannel plaid is okay, why not go all the way? Channel your inner Angela Chase (à la My So Called Life) and wear a floral dress with an oversized cardigan and clunky Doc Martens. You'll sure to have Jordan Catalano asking for your number during study break in no time.

For a more updated look, try this more subtle boot with a plaid lining. It still has the iconic sole of the original Doc Marten, but the lacing, fabric, and shape are a bit more casual. The plaid lining gives this boot a little extra flair, and would be perfect for a day of shopping in rainy November.

These boots were made for working!

XOXO,

Jen & Saira

April Showers call for Rain Boots!

Happy April, dolls!  Us NY/NJ folks are used to rainy days and typically the month of April is pretty unforgiving.  Although not the most stylish footwear out there, rain boots are certainly practical and sometimes necessary for the woman on the go.  Will they look silly?  Probably... but we've found a few styles that we think are easily wearable and even, if we dare to say it, cute!  Plus, you can guarantee that your feet and your shoes will stay warm and dry until you get to wherever it is you are going, be it work, school, or just running errands around town.  Take a look at some of the ones we think will have you singing in the rain in no time at all:

These boots, available at Delia's, are simple and are pretty cute as far as rain boots go (we love the polka dots!) Gone are the days of getting to class with your socks wet and your jeans soaked!  Just slip your feet into these cute boots and you're feet will stay dry all day long!

Looking for a pair that is still fun but slightly more sophisticated?  Be impermeable to puddles with this colorful, equestrian style boot by Chooka!  We like this boot because it has a longer, more sleek and adult look to it, but is still fun with its youthful bright colors and pattern.  Tuck in your skinny jeans or leggings and you'll be ready to brave any storm!

Chooka seems to be the front runner for the more stylish rain boots, so here is another one that we think is extremely wearable.  This one is the most work friendly so far.  It is has a nice shape, adjustable straps, and the herringbone print which is slightly more professional looking.  Wear these to work while keeping your flats or heels safely tucked away in your purse so you can change when you get to the office!

Of course, you can also opt for the traditional Hunter Wellington boots, which are definitely not just for British fisherman. They come in a variety of colors, but we prefer the classic olive green, navy blue, or black. They're durable and comfortable, and your feet will definitely stay dry. Plus Kate Moss wears them, so that means they must be chic.

Ok, so we know these are kind of weird looking...but, the concept is completely awesome!  We've all had this happen: You get to work or class and it's bright and sunny and you're wearing your cute new peep toe pumps.  Then, you're getting ready to leave when you notice it is completely pouring outside and you've got no choice but to trek it down to the subway station in the rain, completely ruining your shoes and drenching your feet in the disgusting water!  The Shuella is the solution to this problem.  They are rain boots that simply fold up to be carried around in your purse and then, when you need them, they quickly unfold and slip right over your heels (or flats or sandals!) for instant protection.  Completely genius, in our opinion.  Now, if they would just come out with some cute patterns...





Stay dry!





XOXO,

Jen & Saira