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Hello sir,

You blog looks like one of a kind, and so I wanted to write with a quick question, if I may, regarding engineer boots.

In short, I am tired of wearing shoes that quickly wear out. Red Wing engineer boots, for example, look like they are a quality product that would last a great amount of time compared to what I've been wearing!

However, I'm curious - is it possible to wear engineer boots with dress pants? I work in a somewhat dressy environment (more on the casual end) - slacks, button up shirts, etc. I normally something like Sperrys, to give you an idea. Is it possible to pull off the engineer boot in a somewhat dressy setting?

And, if I may add, if you do think the look can be pulled off - do you have a Red Wing engineer boot that you especially recommend?

Thank you for your time. Happy holidays! NB

www.vintageengineerboots.com

Hello Nic,

Thank you for the kind words!

Engineer Boots can absolutely be worn with dress pants, however, there are things to consider.

I recommend choosing a pair of Engineer Boots with a lower or blocked heel (avoid overly bulbous or steel toes). These, for me, have proven to be super versatile for any type of wardrobe, from cuffed and uncuffed jeans to pinstriped slacks. Consider the economically-friendly Red Wing 2990/2991 ($320) or Frye Brando or indulge in the more pricey Phigvel Horsehide Engineer Boots ($870).

Red Wing 2990 - I've tried these on they are super comfy. When Christophe, John and Brian stop producing boots, these will be one of the first pairs of boots I'll turn to.

Red Wing  2991

Frye Brando (Not to be confused with the newer version, Rand, with unsightly buckles)

Phigvel Horsehide Engineer Boots

The Mister Freedom Road Champ (the new black model has a slightly lower heel than the first run) and John Lofgren Engineer Boots have a slightly higher stacked "Woodsman" heel, but both are definitely appropriate for casual wear. The Role Club heels can be custom-ordered to any height and shape. Expect to spend over nine bills for these "botique" boots, but they will last you a lifetime.

Also,choosing the proper pant length is crucial to pulling it off without looking either overly manicured or coming across as too sloppy.

Straight Hem - Pair your boots with a slim/narrow cut, straight leg flat front Chino (suitable for both formal and informal occasions) with a length that allows for no more than one break (creasing/folding) at the front where the pant legs meet the boots. For a more clean look, you can opt for a length without a break where it barely touches the boots. Caution should be exercised in order to avoid having it look like you're wearing high waters.

Cuffed Hem - Consider wearing cuffed slacks/chinos that have a slim/narrow cut and straight legs (or slight taper) without a break (or even a tiny bit higher) to show off that instep buckle. After all, isn't that the appeal of these timeless boots?

I hope this helps.

Cheers and Happy New Year!

John