When the temperature drops, when the thermostat battles begin, when every single British person making small talk says “gosh it’s chilly out there” – it is time to grab your boots.
And when it comes to the very best of the boots, there is really only one brand that we swear by at London Sock Company. With timeless shoes that are beautifully-crafted and made to last, Crockett & Jones has perfected the art of shoemaking. But beyond its renowned brogues and loafers are its equally brilliant boots. From derby boots to desert boots, Chelseas to chukkas, the brand has been crafting its renowned pairs in Northampton, the historic epicentre of ‘shoecraft’, since 1879. With a motto we can get behind – Made to Be Worn – these are the best Crockett & Jones boots to pair with your LSC boot socks this year.
What are chukka boots?
Chukka boots, also known as desert boots, are inspired by the rough suede boots worn by army officers based in North Africa during WWII and deftly tread the line between smart and casual. They are ankle high, have open lacing and two or three eyelets. Sleek yet rugged, they are a must-have for all year, and especially during the colder months.
How to style chukka boots
Smart casual: the Chiltern Chukka Boots are the perfect choice for smart casual dressing, and unsurprisingly one of Crockett & Jones’ most popular styles. The sophisticated shape and soft suede (which has been specially tanned to be water-repellant) make this a boot for all occasions. Adding this understated boot to smart outfit is an effortless way to blur the formal edges. Brown suede looks great with green, navy or stone trousers. Add a navy blazer, relaxed shirt and Storm Blue Boot Socks.
Smart: For something a touch more polished, Crockett & Jones’ Molton Chukka in Black Rough Out Suede (worn by 007 himself) boasts black rough-out suede with rubber soles – an excellent choice for days that threaten rain but still require a smarter shoe. These look great with Boot Socks in Burgundy.
What are derby boots?
Derby boots are the high-topped version of its sibling the derby shoe, and typically sit a bit over the ankle. Distinguished by their open lacing (versus the closed lacing style of an Oxford shoe), where the laces run all the way from the top of the area by the tongue to the top of the boot. Rugged and robust, these are a stylish everyday, all-weather option of boot.
How to style derby boots
Workwear: Derby boots are extremely versatile. You can lean into their more utilitarian military looks with well-chosen workwear pieces – sturdy denim, chore jacket or thicker over-shirts, for example. Add chunky knit Boot Socks for the perfect pairing. Crockett & Jones’ Coniston Derby boots in dark brown rough-out suede look sophisticated but sturdy with this kind of outfit.
Statement piece: Islay is an eye-catching Brogue Derby Boot with statement detailing and a sturdy rubber sole. Featuring robust storm-welts, speed hooks and bold broguing, these boots will stand up to some serious striding and look great doing it. Opt for a pair in brown rough out suede for a real statement with your favourite jeans, or the black Scotch grain with charcoal wool trousers and a merino jumper. A brilliant boot to style with Saffron Boot Socks for a real pop, or for something more monochrome, Slate Boot Socks.
What are Chelsea boots?
Chelsea boots are a sartorial classic. Simple, versatile and timeless, these laceless boots feature signature elasticated panels on either side. The origins of these boots and their West London name are disputed, but there is evidence that one of the first pairs was created by Queen Victoria’s own bootmaker. They are as popular with the equestrian set for their practicality as they are with those after effortless class day-to-day.
How to style Chelsea boots
Chelsea boots are one of the easiest styles of boots to incorporate into your daily wardrobe. The rich brown tones of the Chelsea 11 Boot from Crockett & Jones will look really slick with chinos in classic stone or navy and Boot Socks in Ruby Red or Evergreen. These boots are both exceptional to look at and work hard in the rain. Also a classic? Their suede Chelsea 8 style.For something a bit snazzy and sturdy, try the brogued Harris in Sand Hurricane Hide with chunky vibram cleated soul. Seriously robust and stylish. This pair look at home with jeans, a jumper, Slate Boot Socks and your wax jacket, whether in the city or in the Highlands like the picture above.
Visit the Crockett & Jones website for more exceptionally-made British shoes, and browse our selection of Boot Socks here.
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