When I started researching for this post, I instantly became overwhelmed. There are so many kinds of boots: hiking, rain, steel toe working, bovver, dress, etc. So I have decided to focus on my favorite kind of boot: the Western Boot. Growing up in Cave Creek, AZ I have a special fondness for western boots. Being raised on a ranch and riding daily, they naturally hold a soft spot in my heart. I have a true appreciation, and who am I if not true to myself? If you do not love western boots as much as I, that's okay! No judgement here, hopefully, if nothing else, you will at least learn something new and fun. So here we go...
The very first pair of boots can be tracked to Genghis Khan, who wore a red boots with a high top and wooden stacked heel. In the 17th and 18th century all boots in England had high tops and stacked heels. During the U.S. Civil War, however, soldiers wore a Wellington boot. Named after Arthur Wellesley himself, the first Duke of Wellington. It is a four piece construction that is calf length and has a low heel, simple for mass production. When the war ended, in 1865, the soldiers took their boots home with them and they continued to wear them for practical reasons. A few years later, America welcomed in the era of the cowboy-- and the cowboy boot as we know it today.
Cowboy boots today say a lot about the person wearing them. For this reason, their popularity has long moved far beyond the cattle ranch and onto the feet and into the collections of fans worldwide. The best boots today are still made in the American West and Mexico. They are handmade only and have very intricate details. If you are lucky enough to get on the list of a popular boot maker, it can take up to 3 years to receive them. A lesser known maker, but still high quality, will take about 3-4 months. Cheaper boots are machine made and have very little distinction. My personal favorite western boot brand is Old Gringo. Based out of Texas, these boots are absolutely gorgeous. I have two pairs myself, that are heavily worn. Here are some better pics than the ones I would give you of mine:
Now, talking about the fashionable boot, booties are soooo in for fall and I couldn't be happier! They are so comfortable and dressier than regular flats. I can wear them all day (which is not always the case when working retail). Here are my favorite booties that are "must haves" in my opinion.
P.S. Had to throw a motorcycle boot in there <shoot me>
XO Tyler Jane
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