Any rakish man should have an abundance of dependable boots in his footwear arsenal. They are universally cool,
versatile and transcend fashion fads season after season. Whether you’re on your way to the Alps for some freshly
fallen snow or simply trudging through a city’s puddles, no shoe is better suited for the varying terrains. Our team
picks out their favourites from The Rake Atelier and offer their tips on how best to style them.
Tom Chamberlin,
Editor
You can cocoon yourself in as many Teddy coats and cashmere sweaters as you like, but if you scrimp on your footwear
at this time of year, you are going to get cold. Plan your winter wear from the bottom up. The glossy cordovan
leather on these Carmina boots will break the
dullness and grey of the day. Burgundy goes well with plenty of colours but keep it earthy with pleated Huntsman trousers and this 100Hands denim shirt.
Charlie Thomas, Deputy Editor
Winter footwear doesn’t have to mean ‘boots’. For something a little sleeker, a fine pair of Derbies will do the job,
providing they are welted onto an appropriate sole. It’s a good job Ludwig
Reiter knows what it’s doing then, as this otherwise unremarkable shoe is bolted on a heavy
rubber commando-like sole that’ll make traversing wet weather as easy task. Pair with equally robust wool trousers
and a melton wool peacoat and you’re good to go.
Anna Prendergast, Online Editorial
Associate
Boots made in suede and designed for the desert might sound contradictory to the concept of winter
footwear, but Carmina’s irresistible brown suede chukkas are
notably more elegant and streamlined than the average, and are fittingly crafted on the house’s ‘Rain’ last. The
squared off toe and curved waist sits well under tapered turn-ups or jeans. Pair with a military-inspired woollen
overshirt and an interesting neckerchief for a ‘just-raided-a-vintage-store’ aesthetic.
Benedict
Browne, Online Editorial Associate
Taking on an urban metropolis in a cool, calm and collected manner can be a challenge in winter. But, if you happen
to sport a pair of our exclusive Commando boots in mahogany grain alpine leather from Gaziano & Girling, your mission won’t be quite so arduous. Wear them
with a gently tapered pair of Blackhorse Lane jeans, with a single turn-up to expose the selvedge, and a navy safari
shirt from Marol and you’ll come out victorious, no matter what the result is.
Megan Plenderleith,
Copywriter
Inspired by the musical legend himself, Mr Johnny Cash, these black suede boots from Barbanera exude ‘cool’ with
every step, and feature a concealed side zip and a tall curved vamp. The unrivalled craftsmanship and slight heel on
these boots render them perfectly acceptable for casual, everyday attire and would pair seamlessly with an Aero
Leather motorcycle jacket for an extra dose of rock 'n' roll.
Natasha Drax, Online Editorial
Assistant
Nothing beats a good pair of sturdy leather boots to combat the torrential downpours facing Europe in winter. While
sneakers will leave your feet sodden, these black Oxford lace up boots by Belsire will keep your feet warm
and dry and their versatility will serve almost any choice of outfit. For a casual, off-duty look pair with our
exclusive Drake’s corduroy trousers in vibrant blue and a simple knitted roll neck from Anderson & Sheppard.
