THE JOURNAL
There are many pleasing elements about the turning of the season when summer fades and autumn announces its arrival with wetter weather and darker days. There are the visual clichés of golden leaves and a snow-dusted lawn. And there is that unmistakable feeling of excitement as the festive season approaches. But there is another pleasure that does not get written about in poetry or feature in poignant winter TV ads – and that is the simple and rather practical invitation, nay, necessity, of wearing impeccably made boots.
When we want a durable winter boot that will glide over puddles and support foot and ankle through thick (socks) and thin, we think of R.M.Williams. With protective footwear, we’re in the business of trust, so a history that dates back to 1932 certainly helps. The brand’s boot-making pedigree began in Adelaide, South Australia, where everything was made by hand. And so it remains.
Why do we mention the location? Because if these boots are good enough for the Australian outback, they’re good enough for city streets and country walks to the pub. Indeed, an R.M.Williams boot is built to last – to accompany you on many of life’s journeys. But that’s not all. There are many reasons we think of R.M.Williams at this time of year. Let us count them.
01. Durable sophistication
A brown Chelsea boot, but make it urban. This Gardener style takes the silhouette of a sophisticated classic we know well and adds some tweaks for inclement climes. The commando non-slip rubber soles should see you through a thick frost without public embarrassment, and the extra durable leather (leave your velvet Chelseas at home for the moment) will resist any autumnal drizzle. Plus, it’ll become more supple with time and age with you. Talk about a boot with soul.
For the rest of your outfit, stick to sober tones that sit well with the brown of your boots – greens, whites, blues are your friend – and layer up with a gilet or a neckerchief.
02. Failsafe style
The old adage “never wear brown in town” died out a long time ago. However, for some, a brown shoe can still feel a tad adventurous. Black feels safer. It means you can be a bit more playful with the rest of your winter outfit – a houndstooth coat, perhaps, and a variety of shades that nod to a colourful autumn forest floor.
You’ll be pleased to know that these boots include the same branded R.M.Williams tug – a leitmotif of the label – the single-piece leather upper and a dyed leather sole.
03. Seasonal decadence
If you have winter plans that require a bit of effort with your footwear, the options can often be: risk ruining your shoes; or take a look out of the window and promptly cancel said plans. How about: do neither and slip into this pair that are based on an outback riding boot designed back in 1932?
We love the festive-feeling rich cognac and buffed polish, which make us think of mulled wine and cosy fireplaces. The style of this Chelsea boot is sharper, more youthful and dynamic – so carry this feeling through in the rest of your outfit. We’re thinking a denim or suede jacket, and slim-fit jeans.
04. Resilient suede
Can’t wear suede when the weather didn’t get your style memo? R.M.Williams says you can. But not just any old suede, mind. This pair has been crafted in especially resilient and water-resistant suede. But that’s not all. They’ve got Goodyear-welted soles to back you up, too. If you think R.M.Williams’ history, which is almost 100 years long, is impressive, it’s worth remembering that Goodyear welting has been quality-assuring shoes since 1869.
Carry the outback-ranger-meets-city-dweller theme on with faded denim jeans, a denim or checked shirt and a workwear jacket.
05. Rugged practicality
If you want to ramp up the ruggedness, this pair might be more to your taste. They have a rounder, shorter toe, and a rougher, darker finish. The sole is one tone, too, and there is a non-contrasting elasticated gusset. You’re a serious man, after all, so there’s no need to stand out from the crowd.
We can see these being worn for more practical pursuits, such as riding a motorcycle. Chances are you don’t have one, but it doesn’t mean you can’t wear the biker leather jacket anyway. To avoid the Mr James Dean pastiche, and to dress things up a little, add some loose-fitting suit trousers.
06. Bright and bold
Nubuck is a buffed and sanded-down version of full-grain leather. This gives it some of the qualities we most appreciate at this time of year, such as water resistance. Rugged and rusty, it also looks positively autumnal. And, although (thankfully) we haven’t been able to test this theory out, R.M.Williams informs us that this particular material will age beautifully, develop a pleasing patina – and likely last longer than you.
There’s nothing sober or overly practical about these things, so why not wear a RRL shirt, and some cream pants? You might fancy a white turtleneck, to boot.