Although December is the season of giving, it’s also the season to save. If you’re like me, you’re breathing a sigh of relief now that Christmas is over (phew). Dec. 25th has come and gone, but I still have gifts to buy for friends, family, and a few things for myself too.
I’m excited to share a few of my favorite deals with you. Check back tomorrow for more faves for men, women, pets, and kids. These deals won’t last, so strike while the iron is still hot! There is still just under a week of savings for so many stores. Check out some of my favorite items on Instagram and down below (@akcstyle.com).
Another women’s footwear trend
informed by menswear is the Chelsea boot.
This classic boot is known for its sleek and modern cut. A Chelsea boot is the finishing touch to any
fall look.
Most leather and suede Chelsea boots tend to look unisex by design, so there are many versions of this style as well. Generally, the pointer the toe box is, the more feminine your Chelsea boots will look. A square toe box is considered more masculine in this style.
Chelsea boots instantly give your legs a long, lean silhouette, and are best worn with skinny jeans. Wearing a tighter fitting pant or jean which hugs your calves, really emphasizes your overall silhouette, and calls attention to your footwear. Make a chic statement this fall in a Chelsea boot.
Weatherproof boots are the
most popular and most essential footwear style anyone in New England can have
in their fall wardrobe. But, if you’re
thinking of your classic L.L. Bean or Sperry duck boots, we’re not on the same
page here. While those boots are
extremely practical, and last a very long time, the weatherproof boots I’m
talking about are much more fashionable.
While it may
seem impossible to find a pair of boots offering durability and style, there is
a happy medium. Find a fashionable
leather boot you can wear even on those rainy or snowy days. Look for a boot specifically treated to repel
the elements, sealed to keep your feet dry, and built for style and comfort.
Most popular men’s footwear brands have some version of an all-weather boot in various colors and styles. You may find a suede-like finish with a seal reading, “WEATHERPROOF” on the inside. Or, a leather boot that promises to be “treated during the tanning process”. Both are great solutions for a low-maintenance, but high functioning weatherproof boot.
Can’t get enough of our footwear essentials series? Check below for our previous picks. Women’s footwear essentials are up next!
Who says style has to be
uncomfortable? You wear your favorite
shoes and clothes over, and over again because you feel the most comfortable when
you’re wearing them. So, why not try for
comfort and style next time you’re searching for new shoes? Go for a derby!
If you have a
casual work environment, go for a derby style shoe with a rubber sole. A derby shoe is one of the most timeless, casual
styles you can invest in. Take care of
them properly, and you will have them for a long time, long after the trends
change.
For a more traditional work environment, choose a classic,
plain-toe derby with rubber or leather soles.
Wearing a derby shoe with a leather sole keeps your look classy and
professional. Adding rubber soles to
traditional dress shoes, adds bulk and weight to your shoes, giving you a chunkier
profile. The upside to adding rubber is
the endless level of comfort. You’ll
notice the difference immediately!
On a typical New England winter day, no one will notice if your shoes look a bit chunky. But, they will notice you’re the only one standing on the train platform wearing dress shoes. Having a rubber sole helps your shoes last longer, and keeps you from bringing two pairs of shoes to work in inclement weather. You’ll also stand out and be noticed for your fashionably practical footwear.
What’s a jump boot you
ask? Well think of your average,
tactical, military boot, combined with a classic leather boot. A jump boot is the combo of these two styles
with a twist. Usually form fitting, low
to mid-calf height, and made of leather.
This style of footwear is very broad, but perfect for those of you who
aren’t fans of combat boots.
Without even knowing it, you probably have a jump boot in your closet already! This season, choose to invest in a pair of leather jump boots. Play it safe in black or brown, or go bolder in tan or a suede finish. If you’re really feeling special, treat yourself to all four options and round out your boot collection. Opt for tan if you’re unsure of which color will give you the most versatility.
Wearing a tan jump boot, allows you to make a casual statement with black jeans, or look more put together in a tan or navy pant. Whichever colorway, brand, or style you choose, your investment will not go to waste on a jump boot.
Every man needs a great pair of dress shoes to round out his wardrobe. Even if you only wear them 1-2 times per year, or even less than that, it’s worth investing in a quality pair. You never know when a special occasion, like a friend’s wedding, or an unfortunate occasion, like a funeral may occur. Be prepared, and leave the last minute shopping to the “Late Lacys”.
Finding your brand, in other words, the brand of dress shoes you feel most comfort spending your hard earned money on is a good place to start. If your favorite casual shoe brand makes dress shoes, start there. However, if you know you will be living in your dress shoes for most of the year, invest in a high quality brand to get the most bang for your buck.
I have two suggestions for styles that will stand the test of time; the first is the cap toe oxford. Most men’s footwear brands make their unique version of a cap toe oxford in various colors and most have mass appeal. This classic style allows you to wear your oxfords to work and special occasions. Never feel under-dressed again, and rest assured the cap toe will never fall out of fashion.
The second dress shoe suggestion is a more modern look, the monk strap. As you break-in your monk strap shoes, the material softens and you can usually slip them on like a loafer. But, this look is much more sophisticated than your average loafer. There are so many variations to choose from within the double monk or single monk styles. Decide if you like a plain-toe or a more detailed approach, and this will help you decide which style you feel most comfortable in. Once your level of detail is decided, the rest is easy. Choose a style you will want to wear with every look in your closet, and your investment will be solidified.
Believe it or not, so many men still have not caught onto the modern sneaker trend! For the last few years, sneakers have been the biggest menswear trend, by far. If you’re still unsure about wearing a modern sneaker, next time you’re at work, or the bar, check out what your peers are wearing. Take a look at your coworkers, and especially your boss, check out what they have on their feet. Chances are, your job has become/is becoming a more business casual environment.
Take a cue from the men around you, and give into this updated footwear trend. It’s worth investing in a quality brand which offers comfort, a variety of traditional colors, and materials. A quality pair of modern sneakers will certainly last you through this season, next spring, and many seasons to come.
