Reader Question: ‘Victorian’ Boots

Posted on | January 23, 2010 | 10 Comments

We recently received this image accompanied by a reader question in the mail:

They’re soft, cushiony, and uber comfortable with only a 2 inch heel, and make me feel Victorian and prairie-ish (a top combination for me).

But now I have no idea how to wear them. I was thinking green, blues, and reds, but can I wear them with black tights? Grey tights? Should I always wear brown tights? Should brown always be in my outfit somewhere? Do boots like these require cream/ivory instead of starker, true whites?

What a beautiful pair of boots in both style and color! We think you’re right to consider using them to create Victorian or prairie-inspired looks. The relative heaviness of the boot could ground a floatier summer skirt or dress, especially when paired with a chunky sweater.

As far as color combinations and tights go, we’re pretty firm believers in the notion that neutrals go with everything, so experiment freely with your combinations. While brown tights might work well to create the illusion of a longer leg line, other colors can be used to create interest as well. Purple, burgundy, hunter green, or navy tights could add a layer of richness without breaking up your proportions too dramatically. As for neutral pairings, E. is an especially big fan of lighter, warm browns with gray and has paired her cognac boots with gray sweater tights. And, when done purposefully, black and brown can make a striking combination as well. And don’t forget the possibility of textured or patterned tights! Create a bit of drama with floral or lace tights that just peek out from beneath your skirt or dress.

These boots can certainly stand up to a multitude of stylings, so be adventurous! We’d love to see what you come up with.

Category: Q&A

Comments

10 Responses to “Reader Question: ‘Victorian’ Boots”

Rachel
January 23rd, 2010 @ 4:46 am

Those are beautiful boots, they also look a little bit Victorian-style. Thanks for the colour matching tips, I shall try them out when wearing my tan brogues. I have been a little cautious up to now…
EmilyKennedy
January 23rd, 2010 @ 5:25 am

I have this same problem. Sometimes when an item really seems fit for a certain genre, I have a hard time adapting it to other genres. Like would I mix Victorian boots with a really tech-y modern top? But then I think, well Goths do it! There’s always some fashion pioneer out there who has mixed western with hippie or whatever. When the mix is rare, you’re just tapping into something that’s a more avant-garde than usual.
Sarah
January 23rd, 2010 @ 10:43 am

What’s the make of these? It’s always good to know who makes comfortable but stylish boots…
Heather
January 23rd, 2010 @ 2:23 pm

Yes, I’d love to know where to find these boots! They are fabulous!
Moni
January 23rd, 2010 @ 4:03 pm

I’d also like to know who makes these boots. They’re beautiful!
spacegeek
January 23rd, 2010 @ 4:20 pm

I wear this style of boots with just about anything… jeans and t-shirts to skirts and wrap dresses. They look like Anthropologie to me…
Aimee
January 23rd, 2010 @ 9:49 pm

Boot envy! And thank you for working to dispel that black and brown don’t work together fashion myth!
La Historiadora de Moda
January 24th, 2010 @ 12:36 pm

Those are some gorgeous boots! I am in complete agreement that neutrals go with everything, and I think the pairing of black and cognac can be really lovely! If you don’t feel confident of that then an accessory or two that mixes neutral colors can always be a bridge to building an outfit that pairs them together.
All Women Stalker
January 24th, 2010 @ 1:34 pm

I’d love to know where to get these, too. They look fabulous!
sabrina
January 24th, 2010 @ 10:04 pm

Hi folks, I own these boots (and sadly haven’t worn them as much as I wanted because it’s been icy out). They are Born Sicily boots. I got them from an ebay retailer. They run kinda big, but I encourage you to get a pair yourself.
I’m still at a minor loss as the how to style these. I have only worn it with simple, monocolor sweater dresses (a cabled brown and a charcoal grey).
Also, are these too sexy for teaching? I don’t wear pants often, so it would have to be with a skirt.
Thanks again for the feedback!