19th Century High Button Boots

These Bordello Whimsey 115 Boots (presently on sale at Shoebuy.com) are an impressive replica of the high button boot style which was common in the 19th century. The vintage button boot is simply a tall boot that has about 10 or so straps that fasten on the side with buttons. They also usually have the “Louis” heel, which is a design that curves in the middle and flares out at the bottom. The purpose of the strappy style is simply to show the wearer’s stockings and based on this description, the Bordello Whimsey 115 Boots could very well be mistaken for the real thing.

Of course it’s easier to compare things when you can actually see them and I was lucky enough to find an actual vintage pair of high button boots on 1860-1960.com:

Button boots circa 1880

Now you see how closely Bordello modeled their boots after the 19th-century boot? They even got the ribbon on the base of the toes perfectly.

Bordello advertises their Whimsey 115 Boots as whimsical fantasy footwear but I think these can be worn as part of a regular outfit. If you like the strappy boot trend that’s hot right now but would rather not look like a mere fad follower, then these Whimsey 115 Boots could just be the pair to do that. These are boots that are actually modern AND vintage at the same time – a very rare combination in fashion.