The Fine Art of Family Magazine

Some years ago, I spotted Kate Moss in an online photo wearing a chic dress and a pair of rubber Hunter rain boots at the famous Glastonbury Music Festival in England. What? No heels? Naturally, I had assumed stilettos were a key ingredient for completing a glamorous look. However, I learned that day while admiring her beautiful, cool, care-free style that my mother may have taught me the rules of feminine beauty, but Kate taught me how to break them. She also taught me that it’s not always what you wear, but how you wear it.

Often called “Wellingtons” or “wellies” after the Duke of Wellington who had a shoemaker design a pair made of calfskin in the early 19th century, rain boots are an essential shoe, rain or shine. Hunter rain boots, in particular, are one of the best pairs to own.

Made in 1856 by the North British Rubber Company (later renamed the Hunter Boot Ltd), these impermeable, thick-soled boots quickly became very fashionable and gained even more popularity during World War I and II. More than a century later, in 1977, Hunter was awarded a Royal Warrant, making it the only boot provider for the royal family. Apparently, they were happy customers, too: The Queen granted Hunter a second warrant less than a decade later.

What I love most about these boots, besides the fact that they hit your leg at a flattering spot, is that they are unlike any other item we’ve featured in this column. It may seem odd to be refer to rubber boots as a timeless style. But that is exactly my point: These boots are (water) proof that sometimes the most classic items are the ones you least expect. You can wear these to the office and not have to change into that extra pair of shoes hiding under your desk. Rain boots, especially Hunters, will not only keep your feet dry, but also elongate your leg when paired with a dress, jeans, or skirt. Take a cue from style icon Kate Moss. You may just end up wearing them on the sunniest days of the year.

GET THE LOOK Hunter’s Original Tall Woman, $115

Here are two other great alternative rubber rain boots:  Gucci rain boots shoes Tall boots for women ($375) and Tretorn Shoes, Skerry Rain Boots ($55)

[Photography by Inessah Selditz]

Published on April 15, 2010

Tags: Built to Last, Celebrating, Fashion