It was a strange Winter. It felt long. There were a lot of bleak days where I was pretty bundled up and more casual than dressy. On those days I avoided taking pictures. What I wore this Winter was a lot of commando sole style boots but also a new model of mine, the side zip boot. February and March (so far) have actually brought a lot of pretty days. Cold, but pretty. On those days, I like to break out my suits, when I can muster not wearing long johns below my trousers. Let’s take a look.
Suede Boots/Shoes
I love suede. The older I get, the more I love it. It is so easy to maintain and actually takes a beating better than calfskin does, mainly because it does not need a polish and looks great after a quick steam and a brush-down. Since I steam iron in the morning anyway, it is always an easy upkeep. And despite what everyone thinks, suede is GREAT in the rain, especially dark brown suede. So naturally, I always keep the suede on and this year, I broke out more black suede, but sadly didn’t photograph it!
As I type this, I am wearing navy blue suede Chelsea boots on a commando solo 😉
Zip Boots
Many moons ago, I owned a pair of To Boot New York side zip boots that I loved. They had a great shape and a beautiful color. And they were on a rubber sole so were quite durable. I eventually gave them to a friend of mine and vowed one day to get another pair. But side zip boots are not super popular in the welted community and few brands offer them. Not that I would purchase them elsewhere anyway. So, I finally decided to make them a staple in my own brand’s collection and released my ‘Southcenter’ model in 3 colorways, which I have been wearing heavily as of late.
Laceless Chukkas
Taking inspiration from the Loro Piana ‘Open Walk’ model that has been popular among the dress-casual crowd, I created my own version of it with a slightly chunkier sole in tonal colors. Also, in suede. These have been great for days that I was just lounging around or being a bit more casual in my attire. That is typically how I spend my weekends away from work, as you can see.
Naturally, boots in general get a lot of play during the Winter season. We had some lovely sunny days through the months as well, so also went for my new kiltie brogue model. A new favorite of mine.
I hope that you enjoyed!
All shoes are from my brand. Found here: https://www.jfitzpatrickfootwear.com/
—Justin FitzPatrick, The Shoe Snob
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Alexander Clausen
Like your casual look.
Alex
Justin FitzPatrick
Thank you!
Arthur Catalanotto
Thanks for sharing. My favorite outfit is the photo taken at – I believe is the entrance to your store with the open sign. But my favorite footwear are the zip boots.
Justin FitzPatrick
Thanks Arthur!