More than Just a Boot Brand

For a number of years Sorel has been trying to show the world that they are more than just a boot brand, and that they are a fashion forward footwear brand. You may have seen my recent post about their collaboration with Chloè (post here), a smart move to show their place in the world of high fashion. 

I've noticed a drastic improvement in the style of their boots and continued expansion into other footwear over the past few years, and their spring/summer collection truly shows the evolution from being just a boot brand to a footwear brand. 

A friend of mine works for Sorel and introduced me to these Campsneak Slip-On Sneakers. I saw them at her house and then had to get a pair for myself. 

Not only are the cute, but they are crazy comfy. As my friend said, "aren't they like walking on marshmallows?" And they are. Here's what they look like on. 

I seriously might need to get a second pair. 

There are so many cute shoes in Sorel's Spring/Summer collection, like the Ella Sandal, It comes in a variety of color combinations, these being my two favorites. 

Women's Ella Sandal $80

I'm also kind of obsessed with these sneakers. 

Sorel Kinetic Speed Shoe $130

Well done Sorel. You officially have me sold on being more than just a boot brand. 

Sorel x Chloe

Feast your eyes on these! 

"Paris meets the Pacific Northwest with the collaboration of Sorel and French Maison Chloé to design an all-weather boot that is both utilitarian and chic." (from SGB Media)

While a somewhat unlikely partnership, Sorel and Chloé have come together on this spin of Sorel's classic Joan of Arctic boot. 

The functional nature of the boot is true to Sorel, while the shearling tongue/lining, oversized gold hardware and large metallic laces scream of high fashion Chloé.

Unfortunately with a $515 price point,  I won't be running out to get a pair, but I am certainly admiring them from afar.  

Get the Gimmies

It seems like every year when fall comes around I "get the gimmies" for a new pair of winter boots....as if I don't already have any.

This year I am lusting after these....

Sorel Out n about leather boot $115

They would be perfect for the wet weather here in Portland! 

What I Wore: Fashion AND Function

I interrupt your'e regularly scheduled "What I Wore" outfit post for this below the knees post. For Christmas Regan got me Toe Sox Knee-High Leg Warmers. I recently took them out for their first spin with workout tights and my Sorel boots. In this case they are actually fashionable AND functional. I love the little pop of color at the top of the boot, and since this pair of Sorels isn't my warmest, they kept my legs warm too. 

They also come in charcoal grey and coral, if you aren't keen on green. 

And while this pair of Sorels is from two seasons ago, the Slimpack Riding Boot is essentially the same thing. If you're looking for a boot that you're going to be spending an extended period of time in the cold and snow, I'd recommend something with a more robust lining, otherwise this is perfect for going to and from work and on the weekends. Especially if you've got leg warmers to keep you toasty (thanks Regs)!  

Too Many Choices

You may have read my birthday wish list (post here) to know that I am on the hunt for a short pair of rain boots. While I keep thinking about the short hunter boots, I've seen a variety of other styles that seem more unique.

These Sperry boots were on my birthday post.

And while they are still near the top of the list, I recently found some other contenders. We were in Sun Valley for the long weekend, and I came across these really cool Sorel Boots. Sorel and I have a good history. Remember last year when I got the Conquest Carly. I love those boots and have gotten so much wear out of them. 

These Slimpack Riding Glow Waterproof boots seem like they could be equally as fantastic. 

They may have the Sperry boots topped as the new front runner.

Currently Coveting

One of my clients wore these Sperry Top-Sider for J. Crew Albatross boots to the barre3 studio a few weeks ago. I really wanted to steal them right out of her cubby, but I figured that wasn't very nice. Once I found out they are sold out online, I was wishing I had in fact accidently left thinking they were mine! 

And then I saw these from Sorel, the Conquest Carly.

I want these boots. I NEED these boots! Fortunately Sorel is owned by Columbia Sportswear, a Portland company, and they have an employee store that I have access to. So, these boots are on their way to my closet! Stay tuned for some "what I wore" posts with these beauties!

That's all!

Booting up for Winter

The same friend who introduced me to these handbags recently said she was on the hunt for lined black winter boots. We all feel very sorry for her and this horrible dilemma. Nothing sounds worse than trouncing around the Alps and Europe...

Sarcasm and jealousy aside, I had to help a friend out. Especially since this mountain girl loves herself some winter boots. I'm not sure if she's looking for hardcore snow boots or something for everyday conditions. I found a mix of both. But it wasn't easy. There's definitely a market for someone to make some really incredible, fashionable, waterproof boots. Until then, these options will have to do.

Sorel has really picked up their game in the last few years. I've been a fan since I was a kid - it was part of the winter uniform - and my loyalty has continued on strong. I actually own both of these boots and love them equally.

Tivoli - $100

Slimpack Tall Riding Boot - $210

Regan blogged about the Canadian company Pajar last year in advance of her trip to Austria and Italy and they don't disappoint. These are probably my top picks of the boots I found.

Atlas - $395

Majestic - $395

A search on Amazon led me to these options...

Sasha Knee-High Boot - $262.50

Juliana - on sale for $199

Brighton - $119.99

And if you want to go the ultimate snow bunny route, these Tecnica's are kind of amazing.

Skandia Classic - $400

Creek Fur III - $460

Which is your favorite pair?

Friday Gift Guide- Stay Toasty

Since I spend a lot of time in cold mountain weather (both here in Oregon and in Idaho), I always have things to keep warm on my Christmas list. Here are some of my favorites for this holiday season. 

Stay toasty! 

Sorel Tivolino $140

 Hudson Bay Company Mittens $50

Asos Scarf $28.75 

Kate Spade Bow Hat $85

J Crew Pajamas $95

J Crew Slippers $88

Change of Seasons

I know it's Wednesday, and this post has nothing to do with cardigans, but we've decided to provide our readers with quality, not quantity. That said, Cardigan Wednesday won't be every week, but we'll still make sure to keep you all up to date on the latest and greatest cardi's.

On to another topic...

It's officially fall! I was really loving the 80 degree weather in September, but I knew it was too good to last. Instead of fighting the change of seasons, I've decided to embrace it by celebrating all things appropriate for fall and winter.

And these couldn't be more fabulous. A bit of a knock off of the orginal L.L. Bean Duck boot, but I  think I like these even more.

Sorel Women's 1964 Premium Canvas $130

Send in the Snow

Last year for Christmas I received the most fabulous red and black Sorel Tivoli Boots, which I featured on C&C. Since I LOVE my boots SO much, I thought I would share the new colors/patterns so all of you can be ready for the first snow fall.

Sorel Tivoli $100

Sorellington

Sorel has once again provided a fashionable footwear solution for damp and rainy days! The Sorellington comes in 5 colors and sells for $110. Add these to my wish list!

Winter Wonderful II

I spoke too soon on Friday when I counted out the old fashion Sorels. These Sorel Trivoli boots are adorable and only $95.

Winter Wonderful

Forget your Classic Sorels and get the high-fashion version, the Tory Burch Fur Lined Duck Boot. They come in two colors and are Winter Wonderful.