Suede Over the Knee Boots

Thursday, February 27, 2014

A long-standing item on my wishlist has been a pair of tall brown boots. I hadn't worked out the details in my mind yet (style, material, price, etc), so I was open to all possibilities. I figured I'll know once I saw the one.

A leather pair in a medium brown color from Zara's recent winter collection caught my eye upon its release, but I held off due to the $200 price tag. When it was marked down to $140 at the last sale, I jumped at the chance to try. I had high hopes, but sadly, there was too much material around the ankles, causing unsightly bunching and sagging. The search continues... at a rather slow and leisurely pace, I'll admit.

While browsing Gilt a few months later, I came across a pair of suede over the knee boots from Prada and fell in love. Then quickly lost the googly eyes when I saw the $1000 price tag and the words final sale. As I looked for more info, that nagging feeling of familiarity wouldn't go away. I was finally able to pinpoint the source to having seen Anh wear both the Prada and Miu Miu versions beautifully -- the only difference in style between the two (that I could tell) was the heel height (1" for Prada, 2" for Miu Miu). I'd like to thank fate for allowing me to snatch up the last remaining Miu Miu pair at NM for 55% off ($540). It just so happened to be in a gorgeous dark chocolate brown color in a size 37.

Miu Miu suede over the knee boots
I typically wear 36-36.5 (the latter mainly for pointy toe shoes because I have normal-to-wide feet), so I had reservations if going up another half-to-full size would work. I kept expectations low, way low, this time around. Sz 37 fit me fine in the toebox (couldn't feel noticeable roominess), but did experience wiggle room at the ankles (would be a problem with pumps, but not an issue since my heels won't be slipping out of boots). When worn, I didn't feel like the ankle area looked roomy -- no obvious sagging, just normal creasing. Most of all, I loved how the boots contoured to my calves without being skin-tight. I worried about needing to constantly tug at the boots to keep them from sagging, but nope, no need for that at all. Deal sealed. I do think a half size up (36.5) would've been perfect, but don't have regrets about the 37.

The suede leather is amazingly soft and supple to the touch -- lightweight but not too thin. The inside is lined with smooth, black leather and provides contrast against the brown suede when the top portion is folded down. I personally prefer the over the knee look myself, so don't plan on wearing the boots cuffed.

When not worn, I keep the boots upright by placing cardboard tubes inside (came with purchase), otherwise the shaft topples over. I probably should look into some sort of suede-protectant spray, but have so far just been wearing the boots out during nice weather days.

I remember when I first saw the pointy toe and compared them to witch shoes because the front looked extra elongated. But when photographed (see above photo), the boots look rather proportioned. Aesthetics aside, I figured there was a good chance I'd be tripping over my own two feet. So far, so good and only slight scuffing at the toe. I love the boots so much the first time I wore them out that I promptly wore them again the next day and the day after that. I had no problems with comfort when standing and walking for hours on the ~2" blocked heel.

On a final note, LOL @ me for balking at $200 Zara boots, but bought the Miu Miu pair at $540 without blinking an eye. What a brainwashed sucker I am when it comes to the "name." Sigh. I'm working on it :)
camel sweater, brown suede over the knee boots
leather jacket, camel sweater, brown suede over the knee boots
sunglasses: Walmart aviator (similar)
lips: Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in blushing mauve (sold here)
necklace: H&M tassel (similar)
jacket: Zara jacket with zips (similar)
sweater: Tory Burch Deanna (sold here)
bag: Longchamp large Le Pliage (sold at Nordstrom / Bloomingdale's / NM)
boots: Miu Miu suede pointed toe over the knee (sold here; similar; similar)

Navy / Green

Wednesday, February 26, 2014

Once again I (subconsciously) turn to the navy blazer + white jeans combo when I want wear a colored top. Case in point: one, two. That's me, a creature of habit.

navy blazer, green silk shirt, layered necklaces
navy blazer, green silk shirt, white jeans, brown loafers
sunglasses: Walmart aviator (similar)
lips: Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in blushing mauve (sold here)
necklaces: Heirloom Finds (sold here); Forever 21 (similar)
top: Ann Taylor silk blouse (sold here)
ring: Etsy ElishaMarie siren (sold here)
jeans: Blank NYC spray-on (sold at Shopbop / NM)
shoes: Tory Burch Ludlow driver (similar; similar)

Light Layers

Monday, February 24, 2014

Consecutive days of nice weather meant busting out thinner layers and documenting said outfits. So for the next few posts, outfits on the blog will appear more spring-like than usual.

Happy Monday!

dark red jacket, chambray shirt, striped top, navy khakis, camo belt
dark red jacket, chambray shirt, striped top, navy khakis, camo belt
sunglasses: Walmart aviator (similar)
jacket: Burberry lightweight belted parka (similar)
shirt: Gap chambray tailored shirt (similar - 35% off w/code TOP)
top: Saint James three-quarter sleeve tee (similar; similar - extra 40% off)
belt: crewcuts camo (similar; similar)
pants: Gap broken-in straight khakis (sold here)
bag: Balenciaga city (sold at NM / Barneys)
shoes: Sperry Top-Sider Bluefish (sold here)

Hodgepodge

Saturday, February 22, 2014

Just sharing a mixture of outfits that I thought were only meh (and didn't deserve its own post) or because the photos didn't turn out well.

Have a good weekend, everyone!

navy peacoat, navy gingham shirt, orange tee, distressed jeans
coat: J.Crew Majesty peacoat (sold here - 40% off w/code BIG40) / shirt: Banana Republic Factory (recent - tag info; similar) / tee: J.Crew Factory (short-sleeve version - $18.50) / belt: J.Crew (similar) / jeans: Hollister boot destroyed (sold here - $25) / bag: Balenciaga city (sold at NM / Barneys)

navy peacoat, red turtleneck, printed blouse, chambray shirt, jeans, brown loafers
sunglasses: Walmart aviator (similar) / coat: J.Crew Majesty peacoat (sold here - 40% off w/code BIG40) / shirts: Gap chambray tailored shirt (similar - 25% off w/code EARLY); Forever 21 (similar; similar) / turtleneck: J.Crew (sold here - 40% off w/code BIG40) / jeans: LOFT modern slim leg (this season's sold here - extra 40% off) / bag: Longchamp large Le Pliage (sold at Nordstrom / Bloomingdale's / NM) / shoes: Tory Burch Ludlow driver (similar)

trench coat, emerald necklace, blouse
sunglasses: Walmart aviator (similar) / necklace: Heirloom Finds (sold here) / jacket: Burberry Marystow trench coat (sold at Nordstrom / Bloomingdale's) / top: LOFT (similar) / jeans: LOFT knit denim leggings (similar - 30% off w/code SPRING)

Simple in Neutrals

Thursday, February 20, 2014

I'm a huge fan of making the most of my wardrobe by looking for versatile ways to wear items, thus giving outfits a fresh look. Past examples include: wearing a dress as a skirt/top or a button-up shirt as a jacket. And the list grows with the addition of today's outfit. I started with an open cardigan, crisscrossed the sides, then tucked the ends into my jeans for a faux-wrap sweater look.

wool trench coat, gray open sweater, jeans, leopard heels
wool trench coat, gray open sweater, wide brown belt
sunglasses: Walmart aviator (similar)
lips: Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in blushing mauve (sold here)
necklace: gift from aunt (similar)
sweater: theory Ashtry F open cardigan (similar; similar - 35% off w/code EARLY)
belt: Express (similar)
jeans: Express boot cut (similar)
bag: Longchamp large Le Pliage (sold at Nordstrom / Bloomingdale's / NM)
shoes: Jones New York Harlem (similar; similar)

Black / Camel / Fur

Tuesday, February 18, 2014

My faux fur vest came with a belt, but I prefer to wear it unzipped and unbelted because it looks more casual and less constricting. I changed it up today and wove a black sash through the vest's pre sewn belt loops thanks to (where else?) an image found on Pinterest. Unfortunately my sash was too long for one loop around and just a tad short when looped twice. So as a result... my bow ended up looking a bit sad and droopy.

faux fur vest, black turtleneck sweater, camel pants
faux fur vest, black turtleneck sweater, camel pants
sunglasses: Walmart aviator (similar)
lips: Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in blushing mauve (sold here)
turtleneck: H&M (similar)
sweater: Gap cowlneck (sold here - 40% off w/code DEALFORU)
fur vest: Zara Girl (similar; similar)
sash: J.Crew from dress (similar)
ring: Etsy ElishaMarie siren (sold here)
bracelets: Madewell knot cuff (similar; similar); Madewell tree-twig cuff (similar)
bag: Sole Society Shay textured vegan satchel (sold here)

Weekend Casual

Sunday, February 16, 2014

navy peacoat, gray turtleneck sweater, coral drape cardigan, camo belt, cargo pants, brown suede ankle boots
navy peacoat, gray turtleneck sweater, coral drape cardigan, camo belt, cargo pants
sunglasses: Walmart aviator (similar)
lips: Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in blushing mauve (sold here)
coat: J.Crew Majesty peacoat (sold here - 50% off w/code EXTRA50)
cardigan: Old Navy open-front hoodie (similar)
sweater: Gap cowlneck (sold here - $15.98 w/code TREAT)
top: Gap Pure longline tunic (similar)
belt: crewcuts camo (similar; similar)
bag: Balenciaga city (sold at NM / Barneys)

Layered in Neutrals

Thursday, February 13, 2014

Today's outfit is from a few days ago, where conditions outside were much dryer. I woke up this morning to about 6-8" 4-6" of snow outside. DC is kind of a wuss when it comes to snow... half an inch on the ground and the federal government is delayed by 2 hours. I blame it on all the transplants who don't know how to drive in winter weather ;) I'm just happy that the government announced office closures at a reasonable hour last night so I could sleep in this morning. As for my plans for today? Watch more Olympics perhaps? "Help" my husband shovel the sidewalk? Stay safe and warm, east coasters!

wool trench coat, striped turtleneck, black vest, gray open sweater
wool trench coat, striped turtleneck, black vest, gray open sweater
sunglasses: Walmart aviator (similar)
lips: Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in blushing mauve (sold here)
sweater: theory Ashtry F open cardigan (tag info; similar)
vest: Express sleeveless one-button jacket (sold here - 40% off)
turtleneck: J.Crew tissue turtleneck tee in heather stripe (sold here - $19.99)
bag: Longchamp large Le Pliage (sold at Nordstrom / Bloomingdale's / NM)
shoes: YSL Charlotte pumps in Millennium print (similar; similar)

The Fine Print

Tuesday, February 11, 2014

I've found that accessorizing for cold weather outfits is a bit easier than their warm weather counterparts. Once temperatures dropped, I've hardly reached for my ever-growing jewelry stash because nobody would see them once I'm all bundled up. Instead, I pick and pair from my less extensive scarf collection and three pairs of gloves. My grouchy self sure appreciates the less is more decision making process in the mornings.

navy peacoat, floral scarf, chambray shirt, camo belt, brown suede ankle boots
sunglasses: Walmart aviator (similar)
coat: J.Crew Majesty peacoat (sold here)
top: Gap chambray tailored shirt (similar - 25% off w/code EARLY)
belt: crewcuts camo (similar; similar)
gloves: H&M (similar; similar)
jeans: Blank NYC spray-on (sold at Shopbop / NM)
bag: Longchamp large Le Pliage (sold at Nordstrom / Bloomingdale's / NM)

Weekend Lace

Sunday, February 09, 2014

I've been watching the Olympics non-stop this weekend -- new events, new faces, but none missing in the drama department. Hope you have a good one!

navy peacoat, burgundy lace top, brown suede ankle boots
sunglasses: Walmart aviator (similar)
lips: Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in blushing mauve (sold here)
coat: J.Crew Majesty peacoat (sold here)
top: Zara sheer lace backless - gift from Elle (similar; similar)
turtleneck: J.Crew (similar - $12.99)
bag: Longchamp large Le Pliage (sold at Nordstrom / Bloomingdale's / NM)

Pastels / Tweed

Thursday, February 06, 2014

One of the nice aspects of blogging that I take advantage of is going through my stash of old outfit photos -- the good, the bad, and the ugly. Outfits can always be improved upon, and as I refine my wardrobe over time, I look for ways to tweak old outfits to make them new again.

For example, today's outfit features the same combination of tweed jacket + gray pants + snakeskin pumps as an outfit from last year. I tried my hand at pairing plaid flannel with tweed, which I thought was a cool combination at the time... but now? Ehh... I probably should've chosen a more casual pair of pants instead. This time around, I swapped out the casual top for a dressier version, which results in a more cohesive look from head to toe.

tweed jacket, mixed pearl necklace, nude blouse, gray trousers
tweed jacket, mixed pearl necklace, nude blouse, gray trousers
sunglasses: Walmart aviator (similar)
lips: Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in blushing mauve (sold here)
jacket: UniQUEEN Malang tweed (similar; similar)
necklace: Ann Taylor pearlized stone statement (sold here)
rings: H&M (sold here)
bag: Sole Society Shay textured vegan satchel (sold here)

Navy / Black

Tuesday, February 04, 2014

I wanted to wear a dark colored coat with black faux leather pants, but my closet options were limited to a navy peacoat. Navy and black, two colors I love wearing but could be mistaken for the other in certain lighting conditions. To remove all doubt that I didn't get dressed in the dark, I kept the rest of the outfit in the same color scheme by swapping out the original burgundy sweater over a gray top for a black sweater with a printed navy blouse.

navy peacoat, black turtleneck sweater, navy blouse, black leather pants
navy peacoat, black turtleneck sweater, navy blouse, black leather pants
sunglasses: Walmart aviator (similar)
lips: Maybelline Color Sensational Lipcolor in coral crush (sold here)
coat: J.Crew Majesty peacoat (sold here)
sweater: Gap cowlneck (sold here - $12.99 w/code FLASH)
top: J.Crew Factory printed silk blouse (similar)
pants: Blank NYC faux leather skinny (sold at Nordstrom / Zappos / Revolve Clothing / Piperlime)
bag: Longchamp large Le Pliage (sold at Nordstrom / Bloomingdale's / NM)
shoes: YSL Charlotte pumps in Millennium print (sold here; similar; similar)

30 for 30 abercrombie abercrombie & fitch accessories adidas adrienne vittadini agnes b alejandro ingelmo alexandre birman ali ro alternative apparel american eagle amrita singh ann taylor anthropologie apple aqua armani exchange articles of society asos award bag balenciaga banana republic barbour bath and body works bcbg bcbgirls beauty bebe bensoni biltmore for madewell blank nyc blog every day bloggers do it better bois du boulogne bp. brian nagourney burberry by malene birger c. wonder c/meo collective canada goose cara accessories carlos by carlos santana carolina bucci cartonnier caslon casual cb2 celebrities celine chanel chantecaille chelsea28 chicwish china glaze chloe christian louboutin citrus clothing clu too club monaco coach coffee shop cole haan collection collection 18 color brigade columbia crate & barrel crewcuts cuyana cynthia rowley david yurman dc deborah lippmann decor delman disney couture diy dogeared dressy dsquared2 ebay elizabeth and james elleme equipment esprit etsy everlane express featured fendi forever 21 frank & eileen free people gap gara danielle gibson giles & brother giveaway gorjana goyard grace gift gucci h&m halogen halogen x atlantic-pacific halston heritage haul hearth & hand heirloom finds hollister how to hue hunter ikea ilnp in real life inspired by iris & ink isabel marant ivanka trump j.crew jennifer chamandi jenny yuen jewelry jimmy choo john hardy jones new york joules julie vos kate spade kristin coffin l'oreal lanvin lanvin x h&m lesportsac levi's loeffler randall loft longchamp look for less looks like summer lord & taylor lou & grey love 21 lucy m.gemi mac macy's madewell maje make make up for ever manolo blahnik marc jacobs mary katrantzou massimo dutti maybelline mercedes-benz merona michael michael kors misc miu miu mlb modcloth mossimo moulinette soeurs msgm mvmt nadri new balance new balance for j.crew nike nina ricci nine west nordstrom north face nyc nyc new york color nyx old navy olivia burton opi oscar de la renta pfc pierrepont hicks piperlime plastic island pleione polene polo prabal gurung at j.crew proenza schouler ralph lauren ramblings raphaella booz reader mail rebecca minkoff red valentino reed wilson design review revlon river island robert rodriguez ross-simons rsvp saint james saint laurent sales sally hansen sam edelman schutz shashi shinhwa shoes shopbop shopping shopstyle simply vera vera wang sinful colors professional soia & kyo sole society sony sorel sorel for j.crew sperry sponsor spotted moth stella mccartney stephanie b strathberry stuart weitzman style file superdry t3 tadashi shoji tagged talbots target the container store the horse the limited theory tips & tricks too faced topshop tory burch tous colors toys travels ugg uniqlo uniqueen unknown valentino veque for j.crew vera bradley via spiga victoria's secret vince vince camuto vineyard vines walmart ways to wear west elm white house black market wishlist work xhilaration xoxo yearly summary ysl zac posen for target zara zella