Black leather riding boots (I know--not a new topic.)

[lmintzer]

I have typically only skimmed over the boot threads, because last year, I wasn't finding many pairs of pants that fit me that were "boot friendly." This fall, I have a few more pairs of leggings and FINALLY found a pair of skinny jeans/pants that fit and look reasonable on me--AT Loft Curvy Skinny Petite. I have 3 pairs and love them.

At any rate, I now feel like it's worth investing in a pair of riding boots. I am seeing a lot of fake leather ones. Though I don't want to spend $400, I would like a real leather pair.

Any ideas? The Fryes sound expensive, and I just saw a post about them being not so comfy. I am only 5'2", so they can't be super tall or they will hit me in the knee. While I don't have large calves, I have found that some boots can be unfocomfortably tight.

If anyone has seen anything cute, I'd much appreciate a link. I like good quality leather (nice and smooth--some of the cheaper stuff has cracks) and styling-wise, not dressy but not chunky/rugged either. I tend toward a sleeker but still casual look.

TIA!

[arivecchi]

When it comes to riding boots, I would recommend you splurge. They are so classic and versatile that you can wear them for a lifetime!

I really like Cole Haan boots and this great pair is one sale at Nordies:

http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/cole-haa...8A8&origin=pla

The brown detail makes them even more versatile IMO. Wish I needed another pair because I'd be all over these!

These are gorgeous too and all black:

http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/cole-haa...ch%20Relevence

[tarnator]

I would find an awesome pair and then wait for a sale...

I am wearing my new Frye Veronica Slouch in black with the wool top and I love them. They don't have to soft insole, but I just walked to work for an hour in them and I will be on my feet all day and I know that I will be comfortable. Sometimes something too cushy doesn't hold up for me by the end of the day, so I really like these!

....I did get them on that amazing Amazon deal for $125, so I feel pretty pleased with them.

[peanut520]

i've been buying corso como boots lately since the leather is great quality without the weigth of my frye boots. plus they start under $200. this pair is on sale and has a nice classic cuff detail.

http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/corso-co...esultback=1646

[lcarlson90]

I am 5'2 as well and my Veronica Slouch Fryes are the perfect height for me. Try to find something that has a 14 inch tall boot shaft and that should not be too tall. The Fryes are pricey but I think they are worth the investment. I actually bought the Corso Como boots in black that Peanut linked to during the Nordstrom sale last week and they are really nice and priced at under $200.

[lmintzer]

Thanks for the feedback. I now know to look for 14" inch shaft boots.

The Veronica Slouches are cute, but I was hoping for something just a little dressier looking. More like the Dorado. But that one comes up higher. I will have to check out some of the suggestions. Maybe a trip to Nordstrom is indicated. : )

[wendibird22]

I have a pair of two tone Lauren (by Ralph Lauren) riding boots very similar to the Cole Haans above. I got them at DSW last year but I see they still carry a very similar style this year. All black bottom and shaft with just a band of dark brown at the top. They do with everything and I find I can dress them up and down. I'm also 5'2" and I have a chunkier calf and these fit me perfectly.