If you’re planning on making any wardrobe investments this fall and winter, particularly around the holiday season when the sales are good, it’s smart to do your homework ahead of time. It can help you make the best choice with your money, particularly on short notice.
That’s kind of what happened to me when I snagged a pair of Dear Frances Boots at a 20% discount during the summer, after admiring them from afar. I’ve really enjoyed wearing them this fall and, each time I do, you guys slide into my DM’s with questions. So I thought I’d compile all my thoughts into one place and share my insights.
Why this boot?
I was drawn to this subdued-combat style after seeing it on some street style influencers I admire. I can’t remember who the first person was, but I came across them a few times. In fact, I think I even pinned a photo of Margot Robbie wearing them. The Park Boot appealed to me because it offers style and function in one carefully and sustainably crafted package. I love that these boots have a city/urban appeal but are less chunky and heavy-hitting than a Dr. Marten. They are physically lighter too with a lightweight rubber sole. The Dear Frances website describes them as boots for “long city days – rain, hail or shine.” For me, ‘rain-friendly’ is a major selling point when I am on the hunt for a pair of ‘do-it-all’ shoes. If I can’t wear them in the rain (or at least in mild rain), they collect dust all winter. Note: it hasn’t been super rainy yet, so I haven’t had the chance to see how they do in the weather. But my plan is to come back after a few months and update this post.
Overall, I like that the Park Boot is sophisticated, cool and edgy, with a lot of practicality. Form and function together is a beautiful marriage!
Sizing and Comfort
The biggest factor when ordering shoes on the web is usually: how will it fit? Particularly when ordering from a brand based in a different country. Sometimes the conversions are not the same. I poured over the reviews and the size charts of this boot and ended up feeling very confused about whether I should take my true Euro size or size down, which the size chart conversion suggested I do. I ended up ordering two sizes to try, but the expense of that stressed me out. (I don’t recommend that approach, I felt like I was sweating the return process a bit.) In the end, I kept my true Euro size (41, the same size I wear in Birkenstocks) and they are a perfect fit.
The next biggest factor: are they comfortable?? YES! These are made with 100% Italian leather, which usually means full grain, but I didn’t see for sure on the website if that was the case. But lots of people like Italian leather because of how soft it is, and these boots are no exception. The soft leather means zero break in time because it’s already pliable. The sole is soft and supportive and, as I mentioned above, nice and lightweight.
How they are made.
This is where the rubber meets the road on what makes these boots different from other boots, and why the price point is higher. They are made with top notch materials soft, buttery leather and ultra lightweight, thick rubber soles. The leather top of the shoe is stitched on to the sole instead of glued on like other brands sometimes do. They are actually made by hand by skilled artisan shoemakers in Italy. No detail is overlooked.
Dear Frances seems to place a high value on relationships with the people who make their shoes. You can read more here, along with info about the Soles4Soles charity they partner with (every boot purchase = a pair of shoes to someone in need!).
OUTFIT DETAILS:
Top, Sezane last year (similar here, here and here)
90s Pinch Waist Jeans (27), Agolde (currently on sale!)
Park Boot (41), Dear Frances
Bag, APC
Styling
I imagine it’s quite clear that I am a fan. So far these boots haven’t met an outfit they don’t like. I styled them with skirts here and shorts here. I look forward to wearing them with tights and skirts/dresses this winter because they are a great boot to make dressy items feel more casual. And, of course, I’ll be wearing them with jeans and corduroy and anything else I can think of too!
PS – These boots just came out in Tan, which is a very dreamy, warm shade.
PPS – If you want to learn how to buy boots that will last forever, Audrey’s video is full of key information!
This blog post contains affiliate links, which means, if you see something and make a purchase, Seasons + Salt may make a small commission. Thank you so much for your support!
Congratulations!! Your new blog is here!! Lol, I am about to go to bed and checked email and there you were!!
I no better than to check email before bed but glad I did!
These boots are so cute and love how you styled them.
Happy Fall,
Shon
Awww, thanks for being excited for me Shon! I really appreciate the support.
And thank you, the boots are so cozy and comfy!!
Definitely loving the low-key granny boot vibe!
Such a good description, love that!! Gonna have to steal ‘low-key granny!’
Love the boots! I’m curious if you got them in the black or espresso colour and if espresso, how do you feel about the colour with black tights? Also, do you think they would fare well in snow?
Hi Alix, I have them in espresso! I wore them with black tights once and I quite liked it. The the tights had a sheer quality so they weren’t darker than the boots, I think that’s the key. You can see a photo in this post.
Hi! I actually just got the tan and love them! I have very picky feet and haven’t been able to wear most boots for longer periods of time. The leather on these is so soft! I was wondering if had any recommendations for a leather conditioner or other products to keep them in great condition?
YAY!! I am so happy for you! The tan is so beautiful, I love that color. I have not put anything on my leather yet, but if they get dry I will probably hydrate them with the leather conditioner I use on my other shoes. Mine is old by Frye and I can’t find it online anymore. But I was thinking of getting this product after seeing it in action to spray on proactively.