Lust or Must – Winter Boot Edition

Technically, winter has ended from the meteorological perspective. And while fashion houses and department stores have fully embraced spring fashions, including those gorgeous brightly colored chunky platform sandals, here in New England, we’re still marching through the mucky trenches in our boots.

The fact is, if you’re a New Englander then you might actually end up wearing boots for 3/4 of the year. And to be honest, we don’t mind one bit. In fact, we adore our boots so much that occasionally we pay a pretty penny for a designer pair. But, with so many great styles to love, owning too many investment pieces might actually hurt your real investments. So, we’ve compiled a quick list of knockoffs for your shopping enjoyment. You decide which pair are a “lust” and which are “musts!”

Thigh-High Louboutins

It may be totally ridiculous and illogical, but wearing a pair of shoes with the signature red sole definitely makes your strut a little more Haute! But, is that strut worth roughly $2K more than the knockoff version? Um, not if they’re thigh-high leather boots that might get you kicked off the soccer field anyhow. We found a comparable pair for a sliver of the Louboutins.

Neutral Aquazzura Boots

Based in Florence and created by Colombian designer Edgardo Osorio, Aquazzura has stomped up the fashion ladder over the past decade, becoming one of the most coveted footwear brands. Unfortunately, with that rising popularity also came a rise in price. So, while we love the streamlined creamy tone of the August boot, you can find a similar pair at good ol’ Zara. Now, the stitching is a wee bit different, and one could argue these Aquazzura boots are a modern staple. So, if you were going to splurge, this might be the pair.

Two-Toned Gucci “Riding” Boots

Who doesn’t want a pair of Gucci boots? Honestly, we’d take them in any color, shape, and/or size (preferably a 6 1/2 and a size 8.) Why ga-ga for Gucci? Well, it has nothing to do with Lady Gaga in the House of Gucci and everything to do with the quality and comfort. These babies were built to last. But, ugh, for almost $2K, they should last -right? So, as much as it pains us to say this, Steve Madden does a great job of making a pair we minions can afford. Thanks, Steve!

Black Puffer Boots

Puffy nylon isn’t just relegated to jackets in New England. Boots are getting in on the action too! From silver Prada puffers to these black Gia X Pernille shorties, puffer footwear is a great way to keep your tootsies warm until it’s time to pull out the flip-flops. If you would rather save your cash for summer pedicures, then check out the puffer boots from H&M. At 35 bucks, you and your tootsies will make out like a bandit!

Jimmy Choo Sherling Work Boots

Oh, Jimmy Choo! We simply adore you. (You too, Jimmy Garappolo.) 😉 We’ve been loyal to the brand for decades, mainly because when we slip on a pair, we never have to trade comfort for style. Oh, and Jimmy’s wedges are THE BEST! They are investment pieces that stand the test of time. But, we think the wiser investment would be to spend the big bucks on a true classic, like a black pump or neutral wedge. So, as much as we love you, Jimmy, Nine West wins in this contest.