I’m out. I’m proud. And I’m comfortable.
That’s right, I have relented, and bought a pair of charcoal-coloured
Emu boots---and my usually abused feet have never been happier. (I might have opted for the sheepskin boot originators,
UGGs, however at $100 for the shorts, Emus are a little more budget-friendly).
I am still, however, navigating the gentle process of pairing them with outfits that don’t have me masquerading as a 16-year-old girl, or a hobo. (Not so chic, let me debunk that right now.)
For anyone who knows me, my shoe history is a rich one, steeped in many a pairs of uncomfortable, blood flow-restricting, toe-squishing, yet fabulously fabulous shoes. Boots for me have always been fashion-friendly first, utilitarian second. My utter disdain for the clunky and droopy suede boots even went public in my
first ever Sweetspot blog. After all, there was nothing remotely feminine about their shapeless forms, they implied laziness, and I could not be persuaded otherwise.
That was the mantra of yore however, as last weekend’s boot finding expedition finally had me trying on the very pair of boots I have railed against for some time. The moment I slipped them on, I realized my feet would wage war if I dared not buy them. ‘It’s like wearing hugs!’ I exclaimed to my girlfriend with utmost glee. And that’s not far from the truth. I now understand just why women have flocked in comfort-seeking droves to encase their feet in these warm and snug outdoor slippers. After years of sighing with relief only after I take my shoes off, it was a relief to know that no band-aids would be required post-wear.
So on that note, I say on with the UGG and Emu proliferation! Well, atleast until winter's wrath is over...
Ugg/Emu fashion tip: sharpen their look by wearing over top of sexy, skinny/slim-fit jeans.
Desperately seeking comfort? Here are some other comfort boot finds:
Fringed, short brown suede boots by
UGG.
($270)
Available at Checkmate Shoes. (Willowpark Village, 403-271-1597; 5005 Dalhousie Dr. N.W.; 403-286-8834)
Faux-shearling-lined, rubber-soled boots by
Keen.
($180)
($130)