For me, rain boots are a reminder of youth. I recall having a white pair covered with bright red strawberries when I was about 6, but since then rain boots have fallen way off my fashion radar. Imagine my surprise to see them popping up in stores and magazine features everywhere this spring. The best part? These aren’t the kiddie boots I remember. This spring, the rain boot is all grown up. Have a look at these 5 chic choices.
#5 MICHAEL Michael Kors MK Logo Rain Boot – Zappos, $98
These boots feature Michael Kors initial logo in an almost Ikat-like repeating print. The palette of black and brown make these an ideal choice for your neutrals – I think these would make a nice contrast to a white, cream or beige jacket. The print isn’t too overwhelming, but does grab enough attention to say “Yes, I’m wearing designer rubber boots.
#4 Chooka Signature Herringbone Rain Boot – Nordstrom, $69.95
Labels not your thing? Try out these boots instead. These will match the same palette as the Michael Kors option listed above, but without the designer logo. This pair from Chooka bears a two-tone look thanks to the herringbone tweed fabric upper. Check out the functional double strap at the top of the boot – these will make the boots expand or contract, depending on how much calf room you need.
Tweed is a big fall fabric – get a second use out of these boots this fall by ripping off a riding look. Try with a herringbone blazer and skinny pants to fake equestrian chic.
#3 Kate Spade Randi – Zappos, $125
The girliest of the bunch, these Kate Spade boots are pretty special. Unlike most rain boots, these feature an elevated heel – but at 2″ they’re not high enough to be impractical for wet weather. The rubber ribbon styling and deep hot pink shade are sweet features. Somehow these boots manage to be over-the-top without completely overdoing it; despite the uber-feminine details, these boots (thankfully) never quite make it to little-girl territory.
#2 Chinese Laundry Bog – Piperlime, $60
Continuing the color trend, check out these boots from Chinese Laundry. I love the narrow cut, very reminiscent of classic riding boots. Not too classic, however – the unexpected bright red and hunter green colors shake things up. I think the green would pair well with spring florals. The red would be a great way to add some interest to a monochromatic outfit or break up a black and white work look.
Why not go for something a little daring with your rain boots? You can always carry your “real” shoes for the day with you if they’re inappropriate for your activities and change when you’re out of the rain.
#1 Chooka Lace-Up Rain Boot – Nordstrom, $79.95
At first glance, I couldn’t even believe these were rain boots. These remind me so much of the Doc Martens brand that was so popular during the ’90s. I looked up Doc Martens and was less than impressed with their own rain boot offerings, but Chooka nails it. The lace-up detail is just beautiful, but I hope the laces can withstand rain. These are some pretty serious boots – definitely serious enough to be worn for more than just rainy days, or to be kept on all day without having to lug another pair of shoes around.
This spring, rain boots are all about staying dry without sacrificing style – and on that account, these are the best of the bunch.
