Dan's Papers - October 26, 2007

When you hear rain boots, do you think of those ugly, drab, red, black and sometimes white rubber boots? The sort of elementary type of footwear that were more functional than fashionable? Do you think of Totes that cover your shoes? Or do you scoff at the rain and go at it anyway ruining your leather shoes and boots? Stop, because times have changed, and for the better. Although the name implies use in inclement weather, rain boots today are used for more than that. Designers have kicked up their heels to bring us to new heights with fresh new colors, designs, details and fabrics. You'll be the fashionista in new mod designs reminiscent of the 70s, laced up front or flat boots. Wear them high or gathered, stripes, plaids or patterns. Flowers and rainbows, leopard prints, cute little puddle jumpers are beginning to make their way online and in shops.

Rain boots were created a little less than 200 years ago in early 19th century England. The first Duke of Wellington, Arthur Wellesley, wore Hessian boots - tall, tasseled boots for men. The Duke instructed his shoemaker to remove all the glitz and pomp and made them more form-fitting, The boots then became known as Wellington boots or more affectionately, as Wellies. After the creation of rubber in the early 1800s, a Hiram Hutchinson, introduced the first rubber Wellington to French Farmers. They became an overnight success, keeping farmers feet warm and dry, which was a first. Wellington today, come in all sizes, heights and sizes and are sold all around the world. Along with the traditional Wellington's (Town and Country Fashion Wellington boots at www.Amazon.com), which is the quintessential classic, there are many boots to walk with.

This Autumn's sleek tight jeans, coupled with a long knee length sweater, lengthy scarf and grounded with a pair of high boots setting the scene for the perfect rainy day look, has never been easier. Duck under a wildly printed umbrella that matches those wild boots.

Mark Jacobs is offering a shiny beyond shiny patent finish vinyl with a shearling lining. Kind of cool looking with an upturned toe and 3.5-inch heel. You'll either love 'em or hate 'em. Go over to www.thisnext.com and go to Tags (little purple dot) and type in rain boots. You'll be shown the hottest boots this side of the rainbow. Take a peek at Lotsa Dots and all their other friends... you will be amazed at the array of rain proof wear there is. Cupcake Party rain boots are quite pink and girlie and would look great on any pair of legs.

Tattoo Rainboot Blue at Target is a great scoop. With a 1-inch chunky heel, these pretty little babies are a steal at $19.99. They also come in pink.

Famous Footwear is showing some funky rain boots, but if you want to really see what is out there, your best bet is to go online. There you will see some amazing boots that are waiting to line themselves up in your closet!