March 7, 2013

Today's Everyday Fashion: If The Boot Fits




This dress is way too much fun - my favorite color (mustard!), pockets, and a fun silhouette. When it arrived, I noticed the brand name is"Just J," which just seemed appropriate because I could see this dress eliciting that response from a friend: "This dress is just J!" (Yes, my friends really call me J; it's a nickname that started in grade school.) I also want to try this dress with a stretchy belt and pumps, but today it's all about the boots, see below!

Dress: Harmony Belle c/o, $49
Belt: Gap, $40 (similar, similarsimilar)
Boots: Chinese Laundry c/o
Necklaces: Banana Republic, Stella & Dot
Watch: Michael Kors, family gift
Rings: My Stella & Dot 1, 2, 3
Bracelets: My Stella & Dot 1, 2, 3, 4

Vince Camuto $120   /   Dolce Vita $100  /   Nine West $68

You may recall my hunt for the perfect pair of boots in this post. Welp, I ordered three of the eight pairs I featured from Amazon, and thought I'd share the results with ya'll. My first thoughts: why do the boots look so much darker in person than they do online? Also, why do boots never fit my calves? I ordered a size 9.5 in all three boots, and as you can see they are all pretty loose, although not as bad as some boots I've tried on. The middle pair doesn't have a zipper (you just slide them on) and oddly they seemed to fit the best around my calves.

Conclusion? I think I'm sending all three back, although the middle pair are awfully tempting to keep at that price, and I like the color best! What brands / stores do you recommend for boot shopping?

83 comments:

  1. that color looks gorgeous on you!

    www.modernsuburbanites.blogspot.com

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  2. love that dress, the color is gorgeous.


    xo
    http://pinksole.com

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  3. boots are always too big on my calves too.  i have found the best solution to be leggings and knee socks.  but i live in chicago, so i'm also always looking for extra warmth!!

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  4. Honestly they do look too big in the calf.   I have the exact same problem as you - size 9.5 feet and skinny legs!

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  5. I'm kind of a boot-a-holic. I love them, probably thanks to my country roots. A lot of my pairs are cowboy boots, which is clearly not what you have in mind, but I also have several more pairs of Frye boots that aren't cowboy style. Anyway, I pretty much consider the right pair of boots an investment piece. Most of Frye's boots are very well made in that they have stitched on soles (not glued) and they use really high quality leather that is very stiff at first and needs to be broken in. They're going to run you around $350 each, but I have three pairs of them and they're all going strong after 8, 3 and 1 year respectively. I've had the heels on the 8 year old pair replaced after they wore down, but that's it. Not bad considering I wear them all multiple times a week, especially during winter.

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  6. I bought a pair at DSW that were listed as thin through the calf area and that was the only way I could buy them.  I've gone years without buying boots because they never fit my calves.  

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  7. I have the opposite problem, muscular calves that boots are usually too small for, my solution is a company called DUO, they have a huge variety of sizes. The boots are on the more expensive side but they fit like a dream and the leather is AMAZING. I have two pairs and if you wait for the off season (now!) they will most likely have great sales. Good luck!

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  8. I have the same problem! Little feet + muscular legs = boots that won't zip up.

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  9. I have the same problem with boots.  I finally found some that fit great in the calf, but they are a low heel.  The brand is Ecco and I got them for a steal at the Outlet store in St Augustine.

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  10. I have the opposite problem too! You are lucky :P
    http://secretsofashopaholic720.blogspot.ca/

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  11. It seems like you're looking for a higher heel but I have these wedge boots in cognac and they are the smallest in the calves I've been able to find.  They're also super comfy.  I can walk all day in them. http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/bp-runway-boot/3167229?origin=category&contextualcategoryid=0&fashionColor=COGNAC&resultback=0
    Another option is to have a cobbler take them in for you. 

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  12. I have boots by Jessica Simpson that I bought at Macy's. I've been really happy with how they've worn (they're well made) and they weren't crazy expensive, especially since Macy's has great sales. 

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  13. these are gorgeous! :) love the middle pair
    kw ladies in navy

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  14. I have a very similar pair to the middle pair that I love. they are surprising from Payless. I like them because they are just tight enought that i can wear them with tights or leggings but I am still able to get a pair of skinny jeans tucked in. I also have the loss calves issue. They were 60 and one of their more expensive brands but they have held up beautifully. They are not online anymore but they still have them in the store. its the Dexfit brand i believe.

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  15. Same problem here, and I'm shopping for boots! You have to be really mindful of boot circumference (measured at the widest part of your calf). For me, a circumference of 12" is my "sweet spot", they look good with dresses (body skimming) but still have room to zip up over skinny jeans. I prefer to pre-shop at zappos, because you can select a range of shaft circumferences. This will key you in to brands/styles that work. Make a note of the shaft circumference of the ones you're sending back - it almost looks like you could go down 2" in shaft circumference.

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  16. I like the NineWest boots out of the three!    I found a fantastic pair of boots at Marshalls that fit perfect around the calves.  Also a pair at JCPenney last year on clearance!  pippa

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  17. These worked really well for me, but I'm still looking because I'm not a fan of suede for tall boots:  http://www1.macys.com/shop/product/naturalizer-shoes-ilaz-boots?ID=595027&CategoryID=25122

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  18. I personally like shopping DSW for boots because of the variety of brands they carry. With all their choices, it seems they would have something that would fit well and they have some that are labeled for wider calves (I can't remember their term) so you would know to stay away from that style. Plus, you can't beat the prices ;)

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  19. Have you looked at Aldo? My all-time favorite pair of cognac riding  boots are from there, and I LOVE them.  They zip up, but they are the perfect width - fit comfortably with bare legs, tights, or jeans.  You can probably get them pretty inexpensively right now since most boots are on clearance.

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  20. DSW for sure!  They have so many different boots and a wide range of sizes.  

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  21. I like the pair featured above the best and I assume that's pair number 2 down below. They do seem to fit your calves oddly! I have a pair of MK boots I got at TJ Maxx that zip up and fit nice and tightly around the calf. They weren't pricey either -- gotta love TJ's!!

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  22. I prefer ones with a zipper as well. I've bought mine at Aldo before and also Browns. Love your outfit.

    Agi:)

    vodkainfusedlemonade.com

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  23. I have a few pair of Aldo boots that I love and fit well. I just bought a pair of Jessica Simpson Chad boots and like them but am undecided as they are a bit loose around the calves but they weren't eve $100. #skinnygirlproblems

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  24. Lol boots never fit your calves because you have tiny calves! Not in a bad way, I do too.  I have a pair of Enzo Angiolini's from Piperlime (no longer on the website) that fit around my calves almost like a second skin. They didn't have a zipper but they had some elastic on the sizes.  All I can recommend is trying several pairs. I second the commented below me.. Aldo might work.  You're a little late in the boot sale, which can be a great thing for sales, but not so good news because you wear the same size I do which happens to be veeerry common.  Good luck!

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  25. Two different pairs! :-) I'm wearing my own Chinese Laundry boots up top, and then #2 below is a lot darker and by Dolce Vita. 

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  26. I will try and find the websites I purchase boots from. They are Danish quality design, but one can order different calf sizes. All of my boots fit snug, called slim fit. I love them. They are all the one brand 'Billi Bi'. Looking at other comments, most brands are scandinavian aren't they? Ecco, Aldo ?
    Anyway have google at those - they are usually slim fit :-) ive never seen ones so large as the ones in you pics :-)

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  27. Ah, I thought it might just be the lighting or something. Well then, I love your Chinese Laundry pair!

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  28. I like the dress but would be interested to see what it looks like without the belt. Is there anyway you can update the post with a pic without the belt?

    I like DSW for boots. They have a lot of different brands and styles, are often cheaper, and you can earn points toward discounts.

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  29. DSW is my go-to for all shoes (boots included)! I spend waaay too much time on their website... & you get some pretty good rewards if you sign up for their rewards program.

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  30. Love the look!  That color looks really good on you, not sure if I could pull that one off:)

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  31. DSW has the greatest boots/shoes.  I like the Chinese Laundry boots at the very top the best =)

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  32. DSW is my favorite place to shop for boots! They always have so many styles and great price points! Even better, their rewards program is awesome. If you buy shoes as much as I do, it's great. For every 3-4 pairs I buy I get a coupon for future purchases, as well as random discount days and birthday coupons! Highly recommend joining their program if you haven't :).

    www.corporategirlstyle.blogspot.com

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  33. i have the same problem with boots not fitting my calves. in the end i had to measure my calves and then search for boots for thin calves and only buy ones with a circumference that were about 1" larger than my calves. the average boot is about 15" circumference and my calves are about 13".  i ended up with a great pair from DSW! Coconuts Steeplechase by Matisse. A lot of their pairs are for skinny calves and are great quality for a good price.

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  34. I think this is one of my favorite looks from you J!!! Really really pretty and cute, I just can't get over it :) 
    And I have the same problem with boots not fitting my calves but for the opposite reason... they are ALWAYS too small for my muscular legs!! It's really the most frustrating thing as, even if I can find a pair that baaaaarely zip up, it means I can't wear them over any sort of pant (not even thin leggings) or cute socks. It's the pits!









    Cassie
    thriftthick.blogspot.com 

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  35. Biviel
    Biviel Bv3272
    SKU: #7849794

    Clark's
    Clarks Ingalls BalticSKU: #79930746PM

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  36. Clarks Ingalls Baltic
    SKU: #7993074

    6PM website is where I found these two, but I like DSW and Imelda & Louies as well

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  37. I love that dress! Mustard is my favorite too. I also have the exact same problem that you have with boots. I wear 9.5 and my calves are thin too. :(

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  38. My reccomendation for boot shopping would'nt help you guys as it's in New Zealand = Overland.
    I like the Nine West boots on you best.  That dress is a really cool cut :-)

    ♥ Paula Shoe Fiend.
    http://shoe-fiend.blogspot.co.uk/

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  39. I've never even heard of Harmony Belle Boutique!  I have found so many fashion sights with clothes that I love, just by clicking on your sources.  By far, one of my fav parts about this blog!  Thanks again!

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  40. I have the same problem with boots. I have skinny legs and have not been able to find a pair of boots (that are not hundreds of dollars) to fit my calves. I have tried so many pairs on with no luck. That is always my goal every year, to find a pair of boots that fit my legs that do not break the bank! Curious to see what others say.... would be a good follow up post :)

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  41. Love these boots, especially the first ones. I really need to add some boots in that cognac color to my wardrobe! 
    I have found some really great boots at www.RogansShoes.com

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  42. I buy all my boots from Ugg.  Go to the outlet store in Orlando, they have 3 colors of fabulous riding boots and they are much narrower in the calf.  I have the same problem.

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  43. I bought a pair of Franco Sarto boots last year from Nordstrom that actually fit my calves (same problem you have)- but they're 1/2 size too big so I always have to wear 2 pairs of socks!  Wish I could also find them in black!

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  44. I love Steve Madden boots and Sam Edelmen as well!

    http://emmastyleguide.blogspot.com

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  45. I love your style! And I believe you would love what we have in-store at Spaces and Gems. Check us out: http://spacesandgems.bigcartel.com/

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  46. Boots never fit my calves either, but for the opposite reason.  They assume with a small shoe size that I must have a small calf.  Not so much... even at my lowest weights, I have athlete sized calves.  :(
     

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  47. Boots never fit my calves either but because my calves are the biggest muscle on my body.  It doesn't matter how much I DON'T work out, lol, they stay in shape!  And it doesn't help I wear a size 7 because the shaft width on the boot is always smaller at that size.  I guess I never thought about the opposite problem :)

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  48. I, too, have small calves and this is a common problem. Steve Madden boots tend to fit well. "Candence" is my favorite style, though I haven't been able to find a desperately-needed replacement pair in Cognac anywhere! On a side note: LOVE the dress!

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  49. I have this problem as well. Although they're not heeled, I've found a pair that I'm absolutely in love with. They are MIA brand, and pretty inexpensive. I've had them for over a year, and they are still in good condition. Here is a link to a post when I wore them. In the post you can go to the website for them! I hope that this helps you. :)

    http://simplydaring.blogspot.com/2013/01/aztec-hearts.html

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  50. J, Etienne Aigner (sold at Macy's/Zappos) is seriously the best ever. I have slim calves too and spent years looking for boots that didn't make me look goofy and like a kid wearing mom's boots. I love them and the leather has held up so well, 8 months later and they still look brand new! Hope this helps!

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  51. For boots? Anthropologie.  I know the price can be daunting but the quality, fit, and unique style can be worth the price. I bought a lovely pair of leather boots on sale for $140- I wear them all the time and they worth every penny.

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  52. this is such a great color on you! i especially love it with the belt :)

    xo, Victoria

    mylifeinverseblog.blogspot.com

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  53. There is a British company, duoboots.com, that has customizable calf sizes. I bought from them for wide calf boots, but I know they can also do narrow calf boots. The ones I bought were $300, so quite a bit more than what you're looking at here, but I think they're well worth the price tag!

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  54. You look amazing in this mustard color!

    www.kacieskloset.blogspot.com
    www.daisyraeboutique.com

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  55. This dress is gorgeous on you and I love the name of it too!  It is so perfect for you!  xx  Pip

    http://easyoutfitsbypip.blogspot.com

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  56. Try Lucky Brand. They have great online sales from time to time. I was able to grab a pair for around $80 marked down from $280, plus they honored their sales price when I couldn't find my size until a few days after their promo. Gotta love that kind of service!

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  57. I have very narrow calves and have ordered from duo before. I had a great deal of luck and my boots fit perfectly. Although a little steep, they are well made beautiful boots.

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  58. Yowza, this dress is not flattering on you! It is too short and wide on you. I think it would look so nice if there were some color in this outfit. Maybe try it with a bright necklace, belt, cardigan, or colored tights? The name of the dress is super cool though :-)

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  59. It was really fun to try out a dress in a new shape! I usually stick to a slim pencil or skinny jeans because that is what is best on my body type but I have also been wanting to share more shapes. I know a couple weeks ago you commented: "I love this look, but we've been seeing a lot of the skinny jean lately. Can you show us some looks using a different bottom (like tights and skirts/dresses, other fit of pants, etc)? I really look forward to it! :-)") So hopefully you guys enjoyed today's post!! :-)

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  60. Jen, if you click through you can see pictures of the dress with a self-tie that it comes with (i removed it and added a belt). I hope this helps!

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  61.  I think the dress looks great on you!  Love it best with the Chinese Laundry boots on top!  So cute!

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  62. I agree with hayley ... Get yourself a good cobbler and have them taken in if you like them and you feel it's worth it.

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  63. Tory Burch! They are a splurge but totally worth it! And they fit nicely around smaller calves.

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  64. LOVE that mustard dress paired with the Grifter! Such a perfect pairing!

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  65. i always have the problem of boots being too tight on my calves! i hate it so much!
    you're dress and the belt are both great pieces! i also like the middle pair the best!

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  66. me too brand boots are great for small calves.

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  67. I like Naughty Monkey brand boots.  I have 2 pairs that I love.

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  68. absolutely love this blog, hope i can be as successful a blogger as you one day 

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  69. love this blog, hope i can be as successful a blogger as you one day !

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  70. I love this dress on you, it looks fantastic. This is one of the few outfits I've seen on you that would maybe work on someone like me with a pear shape.  I like your own boots the best.  I have the opposite problem, calves too big for most boots I try!

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  71. I have the opposite problem from you.. my calves are too wide! I love shopping at Zappos or their cheaper version, 6pm. You can measure your calves and shop for the specific size you need. I have also heard of duoboots, but have not tried them myself. Love your sense of fashion, it always inspires me to think outside the box and try new things!

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  72. J, I found 3 really great pairs of boots this season at the new JCP. Liz & Co is one of the brands. Leather uppers. Really nice. Got a cognac and dark brown. They were on sale regular $65, but I got mine for $25. Love 'em get tons on compliments and can't beat the price!

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  73. http://www.jcpenney.com/dotcom/liz-co-bailey-tall-high-heel-leather-boots-/prod.jump?ppId=1e6e000&catId=cat100250184&deptId=dept200000

    they have your size...LOL :)

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  74. I have the same problem. I have very thin calves and have a hard time finding any that don't gap in the back. I did however find some last year from DSW they are Coconut brand and I have been very happy with them. Good luck!

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  75. Same here, my calves are too big. I have heard -- and find it to be true so far -- boots with zippers tend to have a narrower shaft, boots you pull on will be wider.  Believe it or not, I've had the best boot luck at Banana Republic!

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  76. Hi J,

    I typically love your style (as an african american woman, who just turnded 40), love how you are usually playful, colorful, etc. But this outfit for me is a miss. The colors are so dark, drab, I feel like you need some turq, purple, green, gold...I don't know, something to liven it up. I am a fan of all colors, but this styling for me was a miss. Also, with the dark heavy boots, it seems to me a nice nude/nuetral pump, or slingback would have been better.

    Thanks,
    Just browsing the site

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  77. Sorry for the miscommunication! That last photo is definitely not intended to be an outfit post - or an outfit at all. I'm simply wearing the dress as a blank slate to show you how the boots fit. I like to be a shopping resource - and show you how the boots fit in case you were wanting to order them yourself! :-) No outfit intended though.

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  78. I've commented before about having the same boot problems. I was shocked the pairs of boots you already own fit you so well. Steve Madden, B.O.C, Mudd, and some other brand are the 4 pairs I've managed to find over the past 6 years.

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  79. I Have to Totally Agree with Alison on Boots!

    I also Am A boot-a-holic and My Favorites are my FRYE's

    You cant beat them for their Quality and How many years of wear you get out of them!

    I have Several Pairs that are at least 5 years old and still going strong.

    If you want, you all are invited to come check out my thread on "The Purse Forum" on Frye Boots.:)

    http://forum.purseblog.com/the-glass-slipper/frye-boot-modeling-reference-thread-post-your-pictures-640752.html#post17112900

    Here you will find a lot of different posts by other FRYE Boot Owners and how they fit and what has worked for them.

    Also I have found if you watch the sales you can get most FRYE's at very reasonable costs from say 6pm, Dillard's, Piperlime, Macy's, just to name a few.

    You just have to be Paitent and wait and watch for sales.

    But trust me you won't ever regret getting them! :) :) :)

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  80. I Have to Totally Agree with Alison on Boots!
    I also Am A boot-a-holic and My Favorites are my FRYE's
    You cant beat them for their Quality and How many years of wear you get out of them!
    I have Several Pairs that are at least 5 years old and still going strong.
    If you want, you all are invited to come check out my thread on "The Purse Forum" on Frye Boots.:)

    http://forum.purseblog.com/the-glass-slipper/frye-boot-modeling-reference-thread-post-your-pictures-640752.html#post17112900

    Here you will find a lot of different posts by other FRYE Boot Owners and how they fit and what has worked for them.
    Also I have found if you watch the sales you can get most FRYE's at very reasonable costs from say 6pm, Dillard's, Piperlime, Macy's, Amazon, just to name a few.
    You just have to be Paitent and wait and watch for sales.
    But trust me you won't ever regret getting them! :) :) :)

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  81. I echo the other gals who mentioned duoboots.com! Finally took the $300 price tag plunge and am happy to say I now own a pair of boots that truly fit my super thin calves. Size 8, 11" circumference! You can order the exact size down to the centimeter. Brilliant! Great quality too. You are adorable by the way!

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  82. I echo the other gals who mentioned duoboots.com! Finally took the $300 price tag plunge and am happy to say I now own a pair of boots that truly fit my super thin calves. Size 8, 11" circumference! You can order the exact size down to the centimeter. Brilliant! Great quality too. You are adorable by the way!

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