Laura Eckstein Jones Laura Eckstein Jones | January 22, 2021 | Style & Beauty,
Even leggings look good with a sleek pair of boots. Here, six shops to seek out—where the boots are most definitely made for walking.
Stylish yet walkable is the name of the game at California favorite Freda Salvador. The brand offers a variety chic, handcrafted boot options, including classics like the bestselling Ace style—a lace-up, chunky-heeled beauty available in black leather with artisinal silver hardware or rustic brown suede—or newer styles, such as the Brooke, which features an uberlightweight and chunky lug sole.
After a much-anticipated wait, SoCal shoe king George Esquivel has finally opened his appointment-based atelier in Downtown Los Angeles to the delight of discerning footwear fanatics everywhere. Walk past the commissioned RETNA painting before entering the space that houses the brand’s showroom, workshop, offices and more. There are plenty of ready-to-wear options available to take home, including high-heeled Julie and lace-up Vern styles—all handcrafted—but those wanting something totally unique can spring for made-to-order to fully custom styles in a variety of delectable materials. Make sure to check out exclusive in-store collaborations with SoCal designer Nick Fouquet and more.
His West Hollywood boutique may have closed, but that hasn’t stopped L.A.-based Neil J. Rodgers from making some of the sexiest boots out there, all handcrafted in Italy and available through his website. The new over-the-knee, square-toe Julie style is the perfect finishing touch for any outfit, as is the versatile and walkable Eva style that features a kitten heel and comes in a slew of covetable shades, including a gorgeous olive green.
4. Redwing
Check out the heritage brand’s Culver City store on Washington Boulevard for a wide selection of rugged styles for men and women. Hipster favorites like the Classic Moc in Oro Legacy leather and the Roughneck in Copper Rough & Tough leather are perfect for that weekend trip to Joshua Tree or Ojai.
5. The RealReal
One of the best things about shopping at luxury consignment shop The RealReal is not knowing exactly what you’ll find when visiting the slick West Hollywood flagship or the brand’s extensive, easy-to-use website. Plus, buying a previously owned item keeps the sustainability gods happy. It’s a win-win!
6. West
Western style rules at this Beverly Hills staple that carries a truly unique variety of handmade boots for men, women and children, along with the buckles, bags, hats and jewelry to match. Highlights, including the flower-and-bird-adorned Autry’s Bluebird kicks and the Rios for Mercedes men’s boots, are sure to turn heads and last forever. westbh.com
Photography by: Courtesy of Neil J. Rodgers