2008 Waxed Suede Riding Boots in Burgundy

Size 43,5 - UK 9,5 - US 10,5.

Ann Demeulemeester riding boots from A/W 2008-2009. In excellent used condition with carry bags. Made in Italy. RRP: $1530 (£937)

Riding boots are one of Demeulemeester's signature designs; their exaggerated yet streamlined shape makes the perfect accompaniment for her elegantly dishevelled garments. Being one of her most popular offerings, they have been released every winter season in different colourways and materials since their introduction in the late 1990s (pictured here: A/W 2009 and 2007). This pair is realised in A/W 2008's signature burgundy colour and exhibits many of the design and construction features that have made Ann's boots so covetable, season after season.

The boots have a simple pull-on design with a subtle and elegant toe shape. The exterior is made from a soft, medium-weight suede with a slightly distressed finish. Parts of the hide appear to have been brushed and waxed, giving it pronounced variations in texture. This treatment tones down the leather's extravagant burgundy hue and make it more subtle and wearable. While looking beautiful, the leather is soft enough to slightly stack and conform to the movements of the wearer for an elegantly timeworn look. The soles have a traditional welt leather construction and their edges have a distressed/textured finish. A heavy rubber outsole gives the boots a structured silhouette, while also making them incredibly comfortable to wear.

This feeling of comfort is further enhanced by the interior construction, which features a softly padded leather insole and full calf leather lining, even on the shaft. Chunky concealed pull tabs allow for easy putting on and off. The panels of the boots are finished in ornate rows of topstitches, which are executed to an incredibly high standard. Overall, the materials and precision of the construction shows that they are incredibly well made.

These boots are quintessential Demeulemeester; genuinely edgy yet classic at the same time. Their beautiful last shape and proportions are nothing like other boots on the market, while their extremely high quality ensures that they will be worn for decades.