I'm trying my best to save money, but if I had money to splurge on, one of the few things I wouldn't feel guilty about is a good pair shoes. I've never really been a brand-only buyer, but I do love Dr. Martens. They're affectionately nicknamed "docs" by many.
My first and only pair were purchased in 2006 with my first paycheck from one of the best jobs I've ever had. I was fortunate to have worked with my former boss, innovative graphic designer, punk rocker, John Shih. He helped to shape the career that I have today whether he knows it or not. I admire his work ethic and professionalism. He is also an all-around cool guy! He wore the classic Dr. Marten boots to work (sometimes with plaid pants). I think in a copy-cat effort to become "cool" I bought Dr. Martens also. I was hoping that the coolness would seep in through osmosis starting from the soles of my feet all the way to the tippy top. I'm not exactly sure if it worked, but during my effort, I was able to find a pair of sturdy, reliable shoes and fit it into my personal style. Dr. Martens has a reputation of being tough on the outside but feel like a cloud on the inside. If you've never owned a pair, save up some money and buy some. You'll thank me later.
You always know when to throw out a pair of shoes. The soles get worn out or sometimes they rip or get holes. Not Dr. Martens. They're built to last and frankly I think they are too proud to allow themselves to get worn out to that degree. Five years and thousands of steps later, my docs feel different. The leather is stretched out, the padding is chewed up, my feet ache. I imagine my docs whispering "I'm tired and its time to go. Thank you for the memories Sarah". I hate good-byes but I know its time. Fare thee well!
Here are some past adventures:
That's me standing next to a missle!
Me and my boyfriend on a battleship!
For weeks I've been trying to find a replacement pair. I don't think they make the exact ones that I have anymore. I've tried on similar ones but they don't feel the same. Impostors! I'm taking this as a sign to move on.
I fell in love with a pair recently. I think this time around its an unrequited love and you'll see why.
THESE AWESOME BLUE BOOTS!
These are so cool! I would be willing to wear them even if they were uncomfortable. And that blue... what a difficult color to wear as a shoe. But I am in love with them and I almost don't care.
Let's be reasonable. I would gladly take these home but they must meet four vital conditions:
1) I must be able to afford them.
2) They have to truly feel comfortable. Not, "I'm sure they'll feel comfortable once I break them in a little".
3) I must be able to wear them with at least four outfits.
4) They don't make my legs look short and stumpy.
I'm developing my own style, so I think it helps to find inspirational photos. Here are some images I found on Lookbook where these girls have bold-colored shoes and wear them well!
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The most practical thing to do is buy a sensible pair in black or brown but the only problem is... they aren't blue!
Or maybe... I can think of another idea...
9 comments:
"I was hoping that the coolness would seep in through osmosis starting from the soles of my feet all the way to the tippy top."
<<hahah I loved that.
Also, I really really love the blue pair<3 I forgot that I have docs on my wishlist too from the first time you mentioned them on twitter. Now I remember that I would really love a pair again hehe & you're so right about how durable they are. My high school pair lasted a very long time without getting torn up like you say.
Also, I have that problem too with most boots making me look short and stumpy (since I am short)! But it's definitely not impossible to find a pair. This winter I had a pair of lovely boots that come up a quarter of my leg and I love them!
Really cool images you posted at the end. I especially am digging the first model's look with the red boots! ooh la la. Good luck on finding the right pair, Sarah:)
In the UK, we call them Dr. Martin's, they anglicised them so they'd sell better here. Which is testiment to the British not liking anything foreign, yet having a country full of foreign products, culture, people and foods! lol
I've always wanted to try a pair of Doc Mart's but I've always had to go for something cheaper. I used to wear Skate Shoes a lot, but they became too pricey, now I wear work shoes that look like a cross between a boot and trainer!
Here they are: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Cat-Footwear-Black-Safety-705039/dp/B001G7PGY6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1302029317&sr=1-1-catcorr
I love 'em! :D Half rpice too (£30 quid) I like the steel toe-cap because my area isn't that safe, even during the day! Which is one of the reasons I bought them.
I'm not really one for fashion and style because they're usless really, unless you're planning to get laid or impress people in which case they'll be a help. I'm not saying fashion is a bad thing btw! ;O)
I buy my clothes based on practical use, cost and need. I know that sounds sad and bland, but hey... combats, cheap jeans. t-shirts and long-sleved tops are practicle and usefull!
As for your Docs, they'll suit you just fine mate! They'll increase your height too, and Docs don't have a habit of making your legs look "dumpy".
I would like these type next: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Dr-Martens-Original-10976001-Regular/dp/B001387UAG/ref=sr_1_40?s=shoes&ie=UTF8&qid=1302030702&sr=1-40&searchContext=B001WL5Z9W,B004H5CZYI,B003W68P6K,B000W88SZY,B003HD2IY8,B000VYGK2M,B002WRI99I,B0038QXJRO,B000X1CE7S,B001385OGI,B000W0747U,B003GXG4CG,B003BGIETY,B00464CE1Y,B000W8AI34,B001387UAG,B001381JK8,B00464A8SU,B0043E897U,B00178VEEK,B0038FPQXK,B00178WYXA,B001381JGC,B00194CW6G Unfortunately they dont have them in my side on Amazon, the hops in town only sell a standard Docs boot! :P
I think I've rambled enough! lol I'll stop now, hope you get the boots you want, mate! :)
- Phil
@Gale hehe I try to fit science words in my daily vocabulary :) Oh gosh! I haven't stopped thinking about those blue shoes! I am so happy that there are other people in the world that hold Docs near and dear (like you!). Finding the right pair is a big deal because its sort of an investment. I love love love that Dr. Martens look good on pretty much everyone! I hope you find the right pair as well!
@Phil I totes agree! At first I was put off by the price, but they do last a long time! And better yet, they are super waterproof. You have more rainy days than me I'm sure! Instead of getting half a dozen OK pairs, its nice to have a really durable pair of shoes for the long haul! I don't blame ya though... I can't believe how expensive some things are in the UK! Shoes and pants especially! Yikes!
I like the pairs you picked. Very classic and versatile :) But steel toe-cap?! What?! You looking to get into a row or something? Geez, what the heck kind of neighborhood do you live in?
I haven't decided on my shoes yet... I am still saving money, but I will post pictures when I eventually decide!
im loving your past outfits-so fun!! and as for th doc's i have been wanting the fancy lady ones for so long, but the compromise is cute too hehe <3
Hooray for Style File!
I think you should go for the blue ones. They're really cute... PLUS your heart is calling out for them... PLUS "statement pieces" are always worth investing in!
Been eyeing the Dr. Marten's Triumph 1914 for awhile now. As soon as a good coupon shows it's face, those babies are mine ;)
Haha! Didn't realize I was signed in as Pakkun!
*Woof*
YES. I *love* Dr. Martens - I want them in every single colour, at every single height and in every kind of style - I can't get enough of them!
Those blue boots look amazing, it's almost teal blue, and perfect to match many colors. :)
xoxo,
Addie
The Cat Hag
I love the red boots, but I don't think I could pull any of the Dr. Marten shoes 'cause they're too heavy-looking and I'm waaay too short. But you look so cute in them. And your outfits are awesome.
♥
Grace
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