Ode to the Fall Boot

The Fall boot: the most essential of accessories and a staple in a woman’s fall/winter wardrobe. And the riding boot, which transcended function and entered the world of fashion long ago, is one of the most stylish and comfortable seen on the street. But before you invest in a pair off the shelf – please check out E. Vogel, the forth generation boot maker established in 1879 in downtown Manhattan. —We were seduced the moment we entered their shop and Jack Lynch, operations manager and great grandson of founder Egidius Vogel, laid three delicious rolls of leather at our feet and presented us with a dozen styles of riding boot from which to choose. “Our boot and shoes are manufactured by the finest craftsmen in the world of the very best materials available, custom made to measure, by hand, with uncompromising attention to detail,” Jack says. And they look pretty hot with a pencil skirt and jeggings, too. But why stop there – your husband will actually drool over the selection of custom styles for men. And there are even boots available for children (silver spoon not included). To top it off, E. Vogel makes house calls and will engrave your name on the inside of your boot. Priceless. Prices for a custom riding boots start at $540. 19 Howard Street (between Broadway and Lafayette http://www.vogelboots.com/