Citrus cocktails are my hands down favorite. A splash of lime, a hint of grapefruit and dash of orange, and I’m there. But citrus cocktails are usually featured in the summer and then quickly replaced after the equinox. This Winter Grapefruit Cocktail from HonestlyYum (photo is theirs) combines rum and Aperol with my favorite citrus flavor, ruby red grapefruit, for a cocktail that is both citrusy and chilly-weather appropriate.
I don’t know about you, but now that it’s fall, I am ready to wear boots. I was incredibly excited to see that Victoria’s Secret would be carrying my favorite Ciao Bella boots. Just one problem, while the brand has kept the cushiony rubber sole for comfort, they replaced the leather with cheap polyurethane. Sacrilege.
This is a slight I won’t soon forget, Victoria’s Secret. Consider yourselves on notice. Luckily, Bluefly still has the Renee boot in real leather for $103.
But a woman cannot live on Ciao Bella basic boots alone. It is boot season, and I need options.
Kate Spade Montreal Boot ($395)
I’ve never owned a pair of high heel casual boots before, so I’ve been thinking about buying a pair to wear with sweater dresses and the like. I love the Kate Spade boots above, but that’s more money than I am looking to spend on a part-time shoe. I found these chic Halogen Brianna Boots for significantly less, but I think I’ll keep searching for something in the $125 price range.
In addition to the heeled boots, I’ve been looking for something with some adornment. But finding a boot that has buckles and metal work, but doesn’t look totally tacky takes work. This Aldo Miola boot caught my eye, as did this Cole Haan pair that come in a really cool color called Gull Grey.
Another trend I’ve noticed is tall boots that convert in short boots due to a removable shaft. The Coach Leona boot and these riding-style rainboots from Melissa both do double duty as an ankle boot and a knee-high.
Need a boot under-$100? These Unisa Toshio boots have a stylish strap detail that makes them look more expensive than they are. I also like these Corso Como wedge boots found on Amazon and these gray Naturalizer Larissa boots with a stacked heel.
Belle-
Haute Look had Ciao Bella boots on there today. I don’t know if they are the real deal, but assume they’ll be better quality, since Haute Look is associated with nordstrom.
You aren’t the only one wanting boots! I’ve been lusting after them for weeks, now.
I have never owned a pair aside from snow boots (I know, I know!) and it is high time that I buy some. I found both a flat and a heeled pair from Guess that I like, and I’ve been watching like a hawk for sales. I am lucky that my office is casual enough that what I will buy can easily be dressed up for work or down for play.
I received my package from VS today, opened them and was immediately thinking “WHAT? They aren’t leather?” and was really surprised you had recommended them for cold weather! I’m glad you addressed this. It was totally my fault for not reading the description fully on their site and the price point was what I would expect for basic leather boots.
No it’s my fault. I never believed anyone would do something so stupid. Bluefly all the way, baby.
Belle – I am a 5’1″ ish women working in a professional environment and have been searching endlessly for a pair of sleek heeled leather boots that are work appropriate. Sadly boot designers have ignored their petite clients who want a higher boot shaft but don’t want to look like a pirate. Any recommendations?
I am in the same boat. Have checked EVERY site and can’t find a sleek, delicate heel, almond toe, black leather boot. I’m 5’3″ and everything is hitting at mid-knee. Help please!
I recently bought a house and I find myself equating prices of clothing, etc with household items that I need. For instance, I love the Coach Leona Boots, but today I bought a wash machine that cost the same as that pair of boots.