the perfect boots for your summer road trip

No summer is complete without a great road trip just as no roadtrip is complete without a great pair of boots. During our trip from Vancouver to Toronto over a span of a few weeks, a stopover in the small town of Nelson, British Columbia delivered the latter. Before I go any further, I have to admit that the famous Doc Martens were never really my thing. Although after trying them on in a desperate search for a practical replacement to my worn out Adidas sneakers, my mind was changed. Here’s why...

Outfit #1:

This trip taught me that Doc Martens DO NOT have to be ugly! If done right, Docs can transform your look with a cool sense of edgy practicality. For example, pair them with your favourite distressed jeans and a pop of colour. For colder Canadian summer days, add a statement shirt to complete the look. Shown above with a pair of slightly cropped Levi 501's, a Brandy Melville tube top, BA&SH long sleeve plus an Hermès bandana and Kooples belt. 

Outfit #2:

Our trip has also taught me that Docs shouldn’t just be limited to long jeans. For warmer days packed with adventure, a pair of light-washed denim shorts and an airy blouse tied around the waist could do the trick. I chose a summery yellow but any colour will do. Bring your favourite comfy sweater along with you in case you decide to follow the rainbow up the mountain ;). Shown above with a pair of vintage Levi shorts, Zara blouse, and a sweater by Helmut Lang.

Outfit #3:

If you too find yourself canoeing across a beautiful Emerald lake, like the namesake spot in British Columbia, you’ll certainly want to take advantage of the photo opportunity. So, while a cute outfit isn’t exactly mandatory, you shouldn’t let that stop you from looking good while paddling. While I could try to explain to you the logic and practicality of wearing Docs on a canoe, let’s just admit that they look cute instead. While definitely offering a practical edge, let’s be honest, sometimes a cute accessory is all you need. Here, I paired the boots with an airy, floral dress by the Kooples. Choose the dress that suits you and take your canoe style to the next level.

Outfit #4

If your mountain lodge happens to offer a find dining option (Like the one at Emerald Lake Lodge), then consider channeling your inner Bohemian with a long, airy and colourful dress like this one by the Kooples. Unlike a pair of Jimmy Choo’s, your Docs are sure to get you to the dining room regardless of the conditions. Plus, this look is perfect if you weren’t a “little black dress” kind of girl to begin with. Fine dining, Rocky Mountain style.

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This look certainly isn’t one that I had previously imagined when thinking about Docs. Actually, none of these looks were. Yet this trip has proven that these boots can be both comfortable and stylish. Whether your road trip takes you hiking up a mountain, canoeing on an open lake or to a great dinner, Dr. Martens will get you there.

(For reference, I have the 1460 Pascal Virgina model, which are a soft leather. If you like whining about your feet in new shoes like I do, you will appreciate the softness of these.) 

-Gloria