Sheepskin and Suede mix boots (often known as UGGs) have been a steady fashion trend for the past few years, with A-Listers and reality stars alike opting to wear them for an albeit casual and comfortable look. Admittedly, I have purchased a rather ugly pair of ‘FUGGS’ (or fake uggs) since the trend arose, which inevitability disintegrated within a few weeks of wear. Despite this, I loved the comfy and casual feel to them, and decided to start saving for a far better quality alternative.
So, with a new job on the horizon and a pair of my perfect boots in mind, I set about putting together a little ‘boots fund’. £200 is a lot of money to spend on just one pair of boots. Well, for me it is anyway. However this didn’t put me off (I love a good investment), I just needed to make sure extensive research was done (by me) as to which of the two most popular Aussie brands ‘Emu’ or ‘Ugg’ were going to be the better investment.
After a few hours of scrolling through online blog reviews and website comparisons, I came to the conclusion that Emu not only offered a wider and more on trend selection, but were also far better quality, providing ankle support (which many sheepskin style boots have been criticized for not doing) and outsoles (more supportive for the heel). Emu also were double layered and double interlock stitched, which made them a far better investment in the long run, as they wouldn’t wear down so easily and tilt on one side from wearing them often, which I know is the big ‘turn off’ for those who dislike the trend.
I had just about saved up half (as I had to take a large percentage out for my impending car insurance), when I got an email from Cube PR regarding an Emu press day. Unfortunately, I was unwell at the time and couldn’t make the press day, but very kindly Luke offered to send me a pair of my very own Emu’s! After jumping for joy (literally, around my room) for 20 minutes, I emailed back thanking Luke as much as I could and attached a link to my favourite pair of boots (the ones I’d had my eye on). Within a few days, a parcel popped through my letter box.
Inevitability, any boots made with a wool lining are going to be cozy, however when I first tried on my Emu’s, I was astounded at just how warm they actually are. I am off to Germany in a weeks time, and shall take them with me – as they are going to be perfect for enjoying the Christmas markets, without suffering the cold. My favourite style were the HI Stinger’s in Chocolate, because I preferred the taller versions and wanted a dark, practical colour that went with any outfit. Since receiving the boots on Saturday, I have worn them everyday since (is that bad?) and rather than dreading the blistering cold, I actually don’t mind it so much anymore (as it means I get to show off my new Emu’s!).
When researching UGG’s and Emu’s (which are compared very often on review websites), I was a little shocked to find out that UGG’s aren’t actually an Australian company, despite using ‘UGG Australia’ as a main brand name. UGG’s were originally an Aussie creation, but were bought out by an American company 15 years ago, and the wool and shearling used in them are now sourced from sheep in Mongolia (usually in the mountainous regions) which means that the shearling will be a little more scratched and scarred. Emu boots however, use material collected solely from sheep in Australia (that graze in grass, rather than mountains).
And whilst many follow the misconception that EMU caters solely for women, I can 100% confirm that men, women and children alike are all welcome – as they stock some fantastically suitable styles for all occasions. I know that any little girl (my sister included) would be absolutely delighted with a pair of EMU’s pink Wallaby boots or a gorgeous pair of tigerlily fringed boots (which look extra snug). Boys aren’t left out either, as they could opt for the dinosaur, lion or tiger fluffy boots. If men don’t fancy sporting a pair of ‘MUGGS’, then they could go for the safer (but equally as warm) Arlington leather and suede sneaker style boots, which come in a variety of different shades.
If you can’t wait to get your paws on a pair of Emu’s and fancy treating yourself (or someone else) to a pair of Emu’s, then why not pop along to their exclusive Christmas Pop-Up shop on the fashionable (and rather aptly named) Lambs Conduit Street in London. The shop is open from 1st November right through until after Christmas and will host Emu’s most popular wool footwear collection and apparel, offering you the perfect chance to stock up on gifts!
Visit http://www.emuaustralia.com/for more information, designs and to buy.
EMU Australia will be open 6 days a week, Monday to Saturday from 10am – 6pm, with some special late night shopping events planned, so be sure to stay tuned!
