Equestrian boots have been around for centuries. Their calf has an elongated design for the purpose of coming high enough up the leg, preventing the leather of the saddle from pinching the leg of the rider. The shoe is designed to have a sturdy toe to protect the rider's foot when on the ground and has a distinct heel to prevent the foot from sliding through the stirrup.
However, the classic riding boot has been modernized with a relatively low-heel and has now transcended as a staple shoe in relation to men's high fashion. Recently I became intrigued with the fascination of rider boots when reviewing September fashion publications for men.
The new September issue of GQ (Cam Newton on cover) features a 6 page spread of the Fall 2012 Tommy Hilfiger Collection... and although the clothing is amazing, what was most intriguing to me was the styling. This particular ad solely convinced me that my fall shoe collection would not be complete without a pair of riders (Thank you Tommy!) The new ads for Kenneth Cole, Ralph Lauren, and Gucci by Gucci also showcase men in this particular style statement.
Equestrian boots have been gracing the stages of men's runway shows for years featured in collections by some of fashion's top powerhouse designers like Prada, Louis Vuitton and Marc Jacobs.
Since this is the start of Mercedes Benz Fashion Week in NYC, my theory is to be among the fashionable offensive, one must be fashionably offensive. As a kick-off to the shows in the tents and Fashion's Night Out, I decided to give these boots a gander and dress them up with fall inspirations. I declare this look "Fashionably Militant".
[Derby] boots
[H and M] socks (cut and positioned on leg to create a leg warmer look)
[Saks Fifth Ave.] Vintage lock and key tote
[Ralph Lauren] Pleated Tweed pants
Birds of a fashion feather flock together. Who says suit pockets were solely meant for hankies? Fellas, this fall try introducing new materials and textures in your beloved pocket other than something meant for wiping your nose.
[Thrifted Blazer]
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The particular riding boots I wore can be purchased here on Dover Saddlery's official website for $69.99.
Remember: Fashion is a form of expression. Being unconventional is quite ok, but you must be comfortable in your own skin!
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Love this ! Tommy does a great job showing ways to wear it. Thanks for this!
ReplyDelete-JGN
It's unfortunate for men, that male equestrian wear is pretty site-specific. Girls in jodhpurs can pull them off in casual and formal wear, but male equine clothing just makes them look like horse riders! The anythingequine.co.uk blog wrote a piece on it a while ago, and came up with some good ways for integration.
ReplyDeleteI need to get myself a pair of riding boots! I really love the man with the burgundy coat. That style feels very Old English and I love it. http://www.theridingstore.com/about.html
ReplyDeleteGreat to see this article, I have been wearing riding boots, for many years now, with good fitting Jeans/trousers and classic buttoned up shirts,waistcoats and jackets. Many women love this look and provide compliments. I had to build up the confidence but now I don't think about it. Most women find the look sexy and attractive.
ReplyDeleteEquestrian boots have been gracing the stages of men's runway ... mbootsfashion.blogspot.com
ReplyDeleteEquestrian boots have been around for centuries. Their calf has an elongated design for the purpose of coming high enough up the leg, ... boots4men.blogspot.com
ReplyDeleteI have to agree with the previous comment (Rob Morris) I too wear rubber riding boots, but had been trying to upgrade my clothing style as the years went on. Now 2016/2017 I have to upgrade my clothes to a more casual, but classy look. But not too many Guys can rock this look. I have been wearing rubber riding boots since age 16 and now Im 50, but don't look it....some say, And I want to have that look like the guy at the Mercedes Benz fashion show. More Men should Rock this look and Not Worry what Other say or think. its rather Cool to wear Boots. I'm a Guy..and I love to wear Boots, I wear them for functional and practical use, sometimes just for no reason at all.
ReplyDeleteLooking like a Pro and feeling relaxed will boost a rider's confidence and help them to perform well on the tracks. A well fitted Equestrian riding boots make sure you achieve the best results - not just in riding horses, but in merging style with substance, too.
ReplyDeleteThis is so because it needs special king of long equestrian riding boots which is not only comfortable but it is not obstructing the pace with which the horse needs to be ridded. These are long and are generally made of leather and come in basic colors like black and brown.
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