DIY: One-of-a-Kind Boots

[Featured above: Luxury Jones one-of-a-kind boots.]

I think I was introduced to these fashion forward,  upcycled, one-of-a-kind cowboy boots when Luxury Jones’ boots hit the scene. But at over $300 a pair, I was forced to covet from afar. Now I’m seeing these crafty little shoes all over the place, including Etsy. And it got me wondering, couldn’t I just DIY these myself?

Armed with a pair of vintage Tony Lama cowboy boots that I bought at an antique mall years ago for less than $30 and a pile of hardly-ever-used accessories, I spent two hours on a Sunday afternoon giving it a try. Here’s how my DIY experiment went:

1. First, I chose my boots. I had my choice between a pair of Lucchese cowboy boots (super expensive) and the Tony Lama (super cheap). Naturally, because I had never done something like this before, I went with the Tony Lama.
2. Then I struggled – yes, struggled – to fold the shaft inside out. I have little hands with little strength. It was a difficult challenge, but with due diligence, I won. And I didn’t mess up my mani either.
3. I piled my accessories on the floor and played.
4. Once I had a general idea as to which accessories I wanted to use, I wrapped them around the boots without permanently attaching. At this point, I’m just testing the looks to see what appeals to me most. It’s important to remember that one-of-a-kind-boots are sisters, not twins. So don’t aim for perfection nor matchy-matchy. As you can see with my pair, the geometric belt chains used on the boots do not match in size, only in style.

Once I knew how I wanted my boots to look and which accessories to use and in which order, I began my wrapping and tying process. Nothing is permanently attached to my boots. I didn’t use a glue gun nor any kind of sewing. Most everything is tied on because I’m still not completely committed to the look I created. As I shop and scour my local thrift stores and antique malls, I just may find other items I may want to use on these boots. I want the option of switching things out if I want.

I’m no designer nor an Erica Domeseck (my favorite DIY-er in the whole world!), but I managed to make a pair of one-of-a-kind boots that meet my desires. And if I can do it, so can you. Give it a try! And let me know how it works for you. Happy DIY-ing!