Chic Fashion Jewellery

British weather is brutal on leather boots. Rain, puddles and road salt can stain, crack and shorten the life of a good pair in a single winter. A little preparation before the wet season makes all the difference. Start with clean boots. Brush off dirt, wipe with a damp cloth and let them dry naturally, away from radiators. Stuffing them with newspaper helps them keep their shape. Then condition the leather with a balm or cream. Dry leather soaks up water; conditioned leather shrugs it off. Work the product in with a soft cloth and leave it overnight. Finally, add your waterproofing layer: A wax based product gives the strongest protection for smooth leather. A silicone or fluoropolymer spray suits suede and nubuck, which wax would ruin. Pay extra attention to seams and the welt, where water sneaks in. Repeat the spray every few weeks through winter, and always let wet boots dry slowly at room temperature. For more footwear care and styling ideas, Roo by Doo covers boots...

Western boots are back, but there is a fine line between stylish and fancy dress. The trick is to let the boots be the only "western" thing in your outfit and keep everything else simple and modern. Three combinations that work in British weather: Skinny or straight jeans, a plain white tee and an oversized blazer. The blazer keeps it smart. A midi dress with a denim or leather jacket. Choose a plain dress, not florals with ruffles, to avoid the full prairie look. Black leggings or coated jeans with a chunky knit. Perfect for autumn and proper UK rain, as long as the boots are leather and well looked after. Avoid head-to-toe denim, cowboy hats and fringe unless you are actually going to a themed party. One statement piece is enough. If you are shopping for a pair, this western boots for women guide covers fit, heel heights and which styles suit different legs. Worn with confidence and restraint, western boots are one of the easiest ways to lift a plain outfit.