I'm Digging: Dress Boots

 The dress boot. An oldie but a goodie. The dress boot, like much of modern day men's fashion, has its history in Victorian Britain. Back in those days, men wore boots for work and "slippers" for evening and formalwear. Victorian England was Industrial Revolution England, and the growing merchant class finally had the discretionary income to spend on leather shoes, which held up better in the never-ending social season of London. Thus the "dress boot" was born. The most famous is the Chelsea boot, named after the posh section of London. The lean profile and sleek design lend themselves to be worn with suits, while the high upper portion and thicker sole can support the heels and ankles of the businessman who spends a lot of time on his feet. Chelsea boots, as well as other, more rugged, version of it, are growing in popularity amongst the Wall St. set, who spend a lot of time on the trading floor and need a classy shoe with tough construction. The dress boot is sure to once again become a staple, for the man that likes an easy transition from work attire to casual wear.

Some of my favorites from this fall:

                              "Lawson" by Calvin Klein. $110.00 at www.sierratradingpost.com

                             "Millbrook" by Clarks USA. $134.99 at www.clarksusa.com

For a more "loafer-ish" look (perfect for a teacher/professor), Eastland has some great options, such as this:

                         "Up Country" Boot by Eastland. $110.00 at www.eastlandshoe.com