Who says you need the chilly weather to wear boots? Just make it about the ankle style. Right now we’re loving leather shoes from Dr Martens, Chelsea boots from Charles and Keith, rubber booties from Melissa — all great for Singapore’s tropical weather — rain or shine!
When it comes to my go-to shoes, I’m one to stomp around everywhere in ankle boots no matter the weather. Let’s face it: Singapore will never have its dose of icy snow for you to rock winter boots or even a knee-high pair. So, the next best thing is, hands-down, the ankle bootie. Sure they look great with chilly weather pieces – but we say they’re comfortable and easy to pair with maxi dresses, brunch dresses, denim jeans and skirts. And they can make even the simplest outfit look instantly cool in no time.
Melissa
The ultimate weapon to battling heavy rain and flash floods? Rubber shoes. As odd as it sounds, we swear by them, especially when they’re from eco-friendly Brazilian footwear label Melissa Shoes (AKA the purveyor of snazzy, durable waterproof kicks). Add a cheeky pop of colour to your outfit with the ankle-length pink boots (above), mix it up in androgynous chic in the heeled classic booties, try its take on the Chelsea pair for a sleeker silhouette, or slip into the cut-out ones if you’re big on peep-toes.
Melissa Shoes, available at multiple locations, including Wheelock Place and Raffles City. Also stocked at Takashimaya, TANGS, Pedder on Scotts and Metro Paragon.
Charles & Keith
Initially, a fashionable footwear label tailoring to Asian women specifically, Charles & Keith has blossomed into a mega international shoe brand. It’s a shoe wonderland that offers ankle boots in simple and experimental designs. Both international and Asian shoppers will be thoroughly spoilt for choice with the wide range of on-trend yet affordable booties such as the burgundy combat boots and pointed-toe ankle boots (above).
Charles & Keith, available at various locations including 313@somerset and ION Orchard.
Dr Martens
The Godfather of edgy footwear and icon of subculture, Dr Martens is the go-to brand for footwear with a cool spin. Originally worn for work, the utilitarian boot has grown to be an everyday choice for unique individuals and non-conformists. The signature line of Airwair boots (made famous by music legends Sid Vicious and The Who) is a top fave due to its simple silhouette which makes it easy to style with all kinds of outfit, durability and comfort especially when attending headbanging gigs and fronting street fashion.
Dr. Martens, available at multiple locations including Capitol Piazza and Wheelock Place.
Clarks
When it comes to hunting down excellent pairs of leather footwear for men, women and even children, Clarks is the Singapore OG. Its original boots are made from hand-picked leather, and are a fantastic addition to work or casual looks. Choose from chic tan to black styles, sexy heels to basic flats, leather to suede – Clarks sure know what’s best for your feet!
Clarks, various outlets islandwide.
Pedro
Unlike its sister brand Charles & Keith, Pedro offers more classic, slightly more luxe shoes that are great for anyone – fashionistas or not – looking for something more classic. The prices are also quite affordable too, and Pedro does really great timeless shoe styles for women, men and kids, including a range of stylish ankle boots such as sock ankle boots, suede ankle boots, leather Chelsea boots, military boots and even leather brogue boots.
Pedro, various outlets islandwide.
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