Happy hump day. You may have noticed we've moved to a bi-weekly schedule for this newsletter. This will give us more time to focus on product building (and you enough time to miss us!) 

 

Today we're focusing on a hardworking staple of many wardrobes: the flat(tish) boot. Whether ankle, mid, or knee length, these boots are perfect for everyday wear in the cooler seasons. Boots, like outerwear or bags, are prime candidates for an “investment purchase” because they're worn often and worn hard. If treated right, they can last for years. Hint: keep leather hydrated, and add a thin protective rubber sole, a service most shoe repair shops offer.

 

What to look for in a quality boot? This may or may not surprise you, but you'll find almost no content on quality for women's shoes, it's all for men's shoes. This is a general problem in the fashion industry, as womenswear is designed for aesthetics not durability, and it's the reason some women will shop the men's section (especially for things like jackets, just get them tailored for the perfect fit!) 

 

So here's an article for men on how to identify good quality footwear, but the lessons apply across the board. TLDR: look for a quality upper (top grain leather is the most durable), stitched construction, and handcrafted vs. mass produced.

 

We've got a few Slates for you that show the versatility of flat boots, and a bunch of links for both leather and quality vegan options from indie sustainable brands. And don't forget to consider secondhand if you're in the market for a pair of boots. Enjoy!

Gold is trending, red is trending, so why not put them together to pop an outfit? Tbh, we consider gold a neutral, and if it's a color you like, there's no reason not to invest in booties that will bring you a smile each day. These are from Anonymous Copenhagen, a B Corp Certified shoe brand that focuses on quality materials and construction. The skirt is deadstock fabric from Ref, sweater is recycled cashmere, and red stockings are silk for a little luxury.

 

Other boots to rock with this look: Chelsea boots made in LA by Christy Dawn; Lug Soles handmade in Italy by Essen; vegan combat boots made of “Appleskin” leather alternative by Good Guys; Ganni stompers crafted in Portugal.

Western-inspired boots show no signs of leaving the popular consciousness, and they give any look that bit of extra personality. In these ankle booties, also from Anonymous Copenhagen, the styling is subtle but effective. We've paired with velvet pants, an organic cotton blouse, and belt with cheeky buckle. 

 

Other boots to rock with this look: Cowboy boots from Feners, made to order in Spain; Riding boots by Flattered handmade in Portugal; Vegan riding boots with cork insoles crafted in Spain by Bhava. Tuck the pants in with these options.

Cream and cognac tones are always beautiful together. You could make it Western with a great vintage fringed jacket, or go another direction with a more polished topper. The striking boots here are from Christy Dawn, entirely handmade of top grain leather by artisans in Guatemala. Organic top is from Skall Studio and hand-loomed skirt from Runaway Bicycle.

 

Other boots to rock with this look: suede ankle boots made in Portugal by Sezane and a similar pair from Bobbies, recycled vegan booties by Sylven crafted in Italy, vegan lace-up boots by Aera, cream lace-up booties by Fortress of Inca, handmade in Peru by a third generation Peruvian-Italian designer.

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