They're not horrible style-wise, but they could do horrible things to your feet.  Shoes are the only parts of a wardrobe that, if poorly made, have the potential to cause actual physical damage.  Cut corners elsewhere but it would serve you well to invest in a quality pair of shoes, Chelsea boots or whatever.  Try to find any one of these at a discount...

http://www.crockettandjones.co.uk/mensbootscollect.html

Thanks, guys.  After looking more closely at the BR boots, I see they leave a lot to be desired.

I'm not shoe-centric at all, so I really appreciate the advice.

Brownshoe:

Perhaps the best approach is probably to go visit riding/equestrian shops, as they will sell these things. They are very common as riding boots (for people who don't wish to pay for tall boots). Prices should be fine, although you won't get Alden or Crockett quality of refinement. But designs should be classic, modest, and sleek.

I hope you live in a larger city or in the country someplace without industrial farming dominating the landscape.

Some of these places will offer MTM boots as well.

Get out your telephone book.

Last edited by The_Shooman (2008-02-11 00:27:32)

I had one pair of Chelsea boots in the early 90's, never again. They almost crippled me.

Chelsea boots are a standard for me with a suit in the evening. As was commented earlier they look particularly sleek and also work well if you are dressing down a suit. I have the EG Chelsea boot on the 82 last in black.