When we think of leather boots, we may imagine a gentleman holding a suitcase. However, this may not be true for Gen Zs. They might wear men’s leather boots with a baseball cap and funky watch. On the other hand, most millennials and Gen X still believe in dressing boots for men like James Bond. In the end, trends come and go, but a timeless, classy look stays forever.
Every guy has at least a pair of leather boots in his closet, but styling them could be a mystery…until today! This blog covers everything you need to know about the origin, types, and styles of leather boots.
Origin of leather boots
Boots have a fascinating history. Let's time travel and go back to 15,000 BC when we find their presence in caves. Modern historians have found cave paintings of boots in northern Spain. How did they recognize those were boots and not shoes? Because boots were covering the entire foot and seemed to offer more protection. So, historians concluded that it was supposed to be used for work. Over time, they became a symbol of status and wealth. Hence, the upper started wearing boots to palaces and sites. Most emperors across Europe and kings in Asia incorporated them while most of the population went barefoot. If you carefully observe men’s chukka boots, they still carry that sense of mystique and power similar to that of the king's era.
Many popular styles of men’s leather boots have rich origins. For example, men’s Chelsea boots were created in 1837 by bootmaker J. Sparkes-Hall for Queen Victoria. She wanted boots without laces as they were tangling in her stirrups while riding. So, the bootmaker got his inspiration from classic leather boots. The sad truth is that they were only worn by the kings. However, Queen Victoria changed the traditional norm. This style got popular in the 1950s, especially in London’s Chelsea Borough. Chelsea boots became iconic during the British colonization and hence most countries view boots as formal fashion.
Chelsea boots
Let us talk about the most famous type of leather boot - the Chelsea boot! You may feel these boots may only work in winter but it's not completely true. These boots can save your outfit and dignity from a torrential downpour in the rainy season. Hence, most business professionals always carry a pair of Chelsea wherever they go.
If you are a Chelsea boot fanatic, you may still not know a few things about its styling. Here is the list of do’s and don’t while wearing Chelsea boots.
Do’s
Get the right fit: Chelsea boots should be snug but not choke your veins. Your toes need some room to wiggle around. If they're too loose, they might slouch and look sloppy.
Analyze the color: Although black and brown are the classic Chelsea boot colors, you can study color theory to get the best pair. You can try any AI-style app to find the right color.
Consider the material: Most people prefer leather material for Chelsea boots. However, you can also find them in suede, canvas, and rubber. Leather is the most durable option, but can experiment with other choices for rainy or snowy weather.
Never forget the socks: You have to wear Chelsea boots with socks. Plus, ensure they're not too thick or bulky.
Don’ts
Don't wear them with baggy jeans: Chelsea boots look best with slim-fit pants or classic suits. Baggy pants will ruin the whole look and make your legs look shorter.
Don't wear them with the wrong socks: Avoid thick or funky-looking socks as they will make your feet look too big. You might end up looking like a chicken.
Don’t wear them to beach parties: Although Chelsea boots can work well in the rainy season, it's better to keep them away from water. After all, its leather and frequent moisture attacks can make it look dull.
Leather lace-up boots
Winters and lace-up leather boots are an irreplaceable combination for men. Many slip-on style fans suddenly turn into gentlemen in the months of winter. Lace-up leather boots have been around us for more than a century. They reflect strength and rigidity in modern times. So, opting for a pair can only make you look more manly.
Do’s
Pair with slim-fit pants: Leather lace-up boots can take your look to the next level when paired with slim pants. The fabric of your pants and the material of your boots should complement each other.
Cuff your jeans: If you roll your jeans slightly above the boots, it can showcase the entire design of your footwear. It will look great on most casual outfits.
Experiment with layers: Leather lace-up boots go well with layered outfits. You can try them with jackets, coats, or flannels.
Wear with different patterns: Try different textures like denim, wool, and cotton for a rich yet rugged look.
Clean them every day: If you want your boots to shine like a new penny, condition your boots every month. Regular cleaning and polishing will keep them in the right spot.
Don’ts
Don’t create imbalance: Avoid pairing lace-up boots with a mix of formal and casual elements. For example, don't pair a striped shirt with loose pants. It will create a bulky and unbalanced look.
Don’t tuck in skinny jeans: If you want to avoid thin-leg embarrassment, always go with some trousers. Tucking skinny jeans into your lace-up boots may look awkward and uncomfortable.
Don’t ignore occasion suitability: Although leather lace-up boots are perfect for most occasions, they're not suitable for every casual event. You can’t wear them at pools or clubs.
Ankle-high lace-up boots
High-ankle boots are available in different types. The most popular type is men's chukka boots. However, other varieties can also be surprisingly stylish for formal occasions. You just need to style them with the right outfits. Choose sleek, minimalist designs and pair them with a suit. You can also style it with hiking jackets, blazers, and casual turtle neck shirts.
Do’s
Dress for professional events: These boots look great for business meetings or professional events. Pair them with straight trousers and a solid white shirt for a sharp look. You can also experiment with different textures and colors to create a classy attire.
Rock high-ankle boots with jeans: High-ankle boots and jeans make an exceptional combination. Choose straight-leg jeans that you can tuck into the boots. If you want to create a more relaxed vibe, pair them with a graphic t-shirt and leather jacket.
Don’ts
Don’t wear shorts with ankle lace-up: Ankle-high lace-up boots can look weird with shorts. Get pants or jeans that complement the boot height.
Don’t choose funny socks: Visibly funny or flashy vibrant color socks can ruin the sleek look of ankle-high lace-up boots. Choose thin or neutral-colored socks to maintain a clean look.
Don’t forget to break them in: Brand-new ankle-high lace-up boots can give you trouble if you don’t break them in.
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