I've had my eye on the Frye Melissa Back Zip since last year when Kate bought herself a pair. They appealed to me by way of simplicity - no crazy hardware, no annoying center seam, interesting back zip details, and a narrow enough calf,. Most Frye boots are way too big in the calf for me and I'm really picky about this. (A little gape is fine, a big gap is a deal-breaker.)
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| Ooooooh. |
I ordered them in cognac in my usual size and they arrived before I'd even hit the "submit order" button because ZapposVIP is fucking magic, you guys. MAGIC. Right out of the box I knew I had a winner. The boots are beautifully made and cognac color is the stuff of dreams. Exactly what I wanted - a rich golden brown color that looks good with black.
The fit was slightly less of a winner. They fit, but were maybe a bit long in the foot? And the calf gap was just on the edge of being too much. I stewed, I fretted, I tried them on with everything. Finally, I tried on Kate's 7 1/2 pair to make sure I didn't need to size down. Hers were definitely too tight, so I just went for it and wore mine out. I wore them for an entire day and had zero issues. Zero! They were comfortable - no rubbing, no blisters, no weirdness. And they looked really nice, I think:
They are not inexpensive, but I'm hoping I can wear them forever and ever. The end.
boots: Frye Melissa Back Zip in cognac
blouse: Pippa/Tegan (in a different colorway and similar)
cardigan: Banana Republic (similar)
leggings: Joe's Jeans Leggings
bag: Marc by Marc Jacobs Hillier Hobo
I *just* bought a pair of Frye Paige boots after wanting them for years and years, because those jerks never go on sale. Now I can't decide if I should keep them. I need to try on a half size down, like you did, but also, there's no zipper or anything, which makes them very difficult to take off. Like...you've really gotta yank, and you might need help. I don't want to pay $350 for boots that aren't absolutely perfect, especially when I usually get my boots from DSW for like, $100, but I know these will last a long time. I'm so torn!! These were my aspirational boots for years. I need to go to Nordstrom's and try on a half size down, though now I am thinking I might prefer these Melissa ones... easier to get in and out of!
ReplyDeleteAre they worth it? Tell me they are!
Okay, two things. First, only you can decide if they're worth it. I think a well-made pair of boots that you love it a really great thing to have in your wardrobe, but you have to LOVE them.
DeleteSecond, the difficulty taking them off can be solved very simply with one of these:http://www.horsetackco.com/wooden-boot-jack-riding-boots.html?gclid=CLGistmSz7MCFUQw4AodKT4A1A#.UKPqqeSx_g0
I have one for my (actual) riding boots and it makes all the difference. And cheap!
Well now you've lost a blog reader, cause I just died of envy ... I've wanted those FOREVER! OK ... so. I'll just do the responsible thing, save my dollars, and get 'em. :-)
ReplyDeleteThe colour IS very nice! I'm not usually big on brown, but that's lovely.
ReplyDeleteI tried on the Melissa boot last year and it just fit in the calf (I have the opposite problem of boots often being too tight< so love the Veronicas), but had a weird ridge under my foot that was uncomfy. It was very sad, because they are VERY pretty. *sigh*
Ooohhh is right. I think I want to marry that color (the leather color). If only I lived in a state where it was legal to do so.
ReplyDeleteYou can never, ever have too many boots. Especially boots as awesome as those! Just had to chime in to say I finally pulled the trigger on the Paige trapunto (antique tan) last week and I love them so much it hurts. (I ordered my usual size in other Fryes, it's a little loose w/ tights but perfect w/ socks) I am sitting in a hotel lobby working right now (long story) and I just keep looking at them, people must be wondering what my problem is. But I don't care!
ReplyDeleteI just looked those up! SO PRETTY.
DeleteI so want those boots! I'm trying to convince myself the cost per wear will make the boots worth it. They were on sale last year at Nordstrom - why didn't I know??
ReplyDeleteErmagerrrrrd I just bought some Frye Melissas (no zipper) yesterday ... supposed to be shopping for presents for the fam and whoops bought me a three hunnerd dollar pair o' boots. But they are so wonderful ... you guys are such enablers!!!
ReplyDelete