There are some wardrobe purchases you just never ever forget. Tied to a moment in time, a milestone, a place, or maybe it’s just something you’ve had forever and know that you will have it forever. 

For me, it’s my beloved polo boots from Argentina.  If you’ve seen me bopping around Old Town, chances are you’ve seen me wearing - or even asked me about - my boots. Black leather, zip straight up the back, and a snap enclosure. They fit like a glove, because they were custom fitted to me. This is practically de rigeur in Buenos Aires. A right of passage. Like the handmade sandals tourist won’t leave Capri without, these boots are always on my “list” of things to do or buy when anyone asks me for Buenos Aires recommendations. 

One of my favorite makers is La Casa de Las Botas, a small but mighty shop that spans generations of boot-making for some of the world’s top equestrians and polo players. With a seemingly endless variety of styles, colors, hardware, it is a candy shop for the boot-lover. Customers choose their style (polo, riding, ankle, paddock), closure (IE lace front or zip) and hardware. The feet are traced, measurements along the leg, calf, and foot are taken, and the shoe is created on site. The same goes for Antonio Vicario, who is based in a more rural area of Buenos Aires and whose riding boots I have a particular affinity for.

After much convincing, we were able to convince both La Casa de Las Botas and Antonio Vicario to allow us to facilitate this experience. It goes without saying I am beyond excited to be bringing these boots and this experience to American In Paris. When we first launched Bespoke (our suite of custom services which includes custom lacquer clutches and hand-painted monogramming on silk leisure sets), our dream was to bring these custom boots to Old Town. 

To celebrate this exciting offering, we’re hosting an event on Tuesday, September 24. Lisa Katic from Wine Gallery 108 will lead us through a wine tasting of her favorite Argentinian wines. Attendees will be among the first to browse samples of the boots, have their measurements taken, and place their orders. We’ll have light Argentinian bites and refreshments. And, in addition to our private label Fall collection, we’ll also have some of our other Argentinian brands on display, including Liliana Forester, and MOLA Accesorio (think: sumptuous leather, patterns, pony hair, and crystal-adorned hats). 

RSVPs are required; RSVP here. If you’re unable to join us for the event, you may schedule an appointment with Ana, Head of American In Paris Bespoke Services, by emailing us at contact@aipstore.com. Please note: due to the hand-crafted nature of the boots, we will be capping orders; any order placed at the event will be marked priority. 

Visit American In Paris on Upper King Street:  1225 King Street, Old Town, Alexandria.

SEE ALSO: To Have & To Hold: Customizable Items For The Bride & Her Bridal Party