The trickling down of trends from catwalk to High Street is a key part of the fashion industry – and of course trends are often influenced in the other direction too. Either way, the expectation is that when we shop, we will choose one or the other: the high end piece or its high street version. So far, so sensible. So then, is it ever justifiable to buy both? For months I’d been drooling over the utterly kick-ass punk inspired Isabel Marant “Rolling” zebra print ankle boots (A/W 16), hoping to get hold of a pair at a less painful price later in the season. (A strategy that was not without risk and which meant that I had to keep a keen eye on stock availability!)
Isabel Marant A/W 16
Then a few weeks ago, I spotted the Carvela “Snorkle” – an obvious “tribute” to the Marant Rolling – in black. Now, the Rolling also had a black version, but the hyper embellishment which elevated the zebra just didn’t do the same for the black. And more importantly, over embellished black boots are in fact not that versatile to wear. (If you’ve followed this blog for a while you will know how keen I am on practical styling and buying wisely – for a refresher see my 5 commandments!). But the Carvela, being far less embellished didn’t have this problem. So, in short I bought them. And a few days later I bought the Marant as well.
Why? Well the Marant boots are simply gorgeous, a keeper that I will treasure and wear for years. The Carvela version look great on, are very well made and, because they didn’t cost as much, can be worn on rainy days and for generally stomping around when I might have worried about ruining the Marant. So my friends, it turns out that there are indeed times when it is ALMOST essential to buy BOTH. Go on. You know it makes sense. 🙂
Isabel Marant “Rolling” zebra print calf hair, suede and leather ankle boots
Carvela “Snorkle” black suede ankle boots
Isabel Marant A/W 16