Style Bee - Blundstone Review + Styling Ideas

BLUNDSTONE REVIEW + STYLING IDEAS

02.20.19

Last fall I finally caved in and bought myself a pair of Blundstone boots. Despite their surge in popularity, I’d initially written them off as being too clunky and not a good fit within my style definition, not to mention my bewilderment as to how I’d actually wear them.

But after seeing how Dave has enjoyed his, I decided to give them a second look. With weakened resistance I visited the Toronto store, tried them on and well, a few laps around the showroom was all it really took to convince me! Since then they’ve been a great boot for all types of weather and I feel like I’ve spent enough time in them to share a proper review (even though it’s late in the season). I’ve also figured out how the heck to style them so I thought it’d be helpful to show how I do that today too!

So let’s dig in shall we?


Style Bee - Blundstone Review + Styling Ideas

BLUNDSTONE REVIEW


As per usual, I’ll start this review with some basic information like the specific style, price, size I bought and where to find them, then I’ll get into more specific details like company values, comfort, warmth and break-in period. So here goes!

STYLE | Unisex – 1392 – Winter Chisel Toe in Rustic Black | Regular version 1308 in Rustic Black

I went for the Chisel Toe style because of the sleeker design and sharper sole and tread profile. I opted for the winterized version because the leather is lined with Thinsulate, treated to be 100% water-proof and comes with interchangeable sets of shearling and regular insoles making them suitable for a wide range of temperatures.

PRICE | $259.99 CAD or $195.99 USD

SIZE | I wear a US 7 – 7.5 and have a narrow instep. I have the unisex size 4 in these.

MADE IN | Vietnam

MATERIALS:

  • Upper: Premium waterproof leather
  • Lining: 200 grams of Thinsulate insulation
  • Outsole: Thermo-urethane
  • Midsole: Polyurethane
  • Removable sheepskin footbed for warmth and comfort

CARE | Blundstone boots are low maintenance but there is a comprehensive care guide here to help you keep them looking great. So far all I’ve done is wipe them off with a wet towel to get any mud cleaned up.

WARRANTY | All Blundstone products are fully guaranteed against defects in materials and workmanship. The warranty does not guarantee or imply an expectation of service life (ie: a time frame) but if there is a discernible defect you can return the product at any time and Blundstone will do their best to either repair or replace the defective elements.

WHERE TO FIND THEM:


OTHER STYLES TO CHECK OUT


Style Bee - Blundstone Review + Style Ideas

COMPANY VALUES | Until Dave bought his boots, Blundstone wasn’t a brand I’d had on my responsibly-made radar. So when I started considering them I did a bit of research, as I do with any brand. Are they perfectly transparent, no, but their company values were up front enough that I felt comfortable supporting the brand, especially knowing that the boots are really made to last. Here’s a quote from their website:

The Blundstone Group operates according to a set of values that ensures legal, ethical and responsible policies, practices and processes are adopted throughout the company and at all times. From our people and business management activities through to our interaction with the physical environment, Blundstone strives to meet and, where possible, exceed community expectations.

– The Blundstone Group

You can learn a lot more about the company’s Environment Standards and Ethical Employment on the Our Values page and more about the brand’s quality promise on this page.

FIT | I mentioned my size above but to reiterate I got the unisex size 4 and typically wear a US 7-7.5 (7 in Everlane for reference). Sizing guides suggest women order 3 down and men order 1 down from their usual US or Canadian size.

I think the style I have is perhaps a bit roomier compared to some of the classic styles. I don’t find them too big and my foot is very comfortable in them and doesn’t slip around. The extra room works well for a winter boot since your sock thickness will change throughout the season. The boots come with a winter and a regular insole so you can swap them out depending on the temperature.

ARE THEY EASY TO PULL ON? | I found they were pretty stiff to begin with but have softened up nicely now. I’ve probably pulled them on about 60+ times at this point. Honestly, I’m tempted to cut the tabs off but they are pretty useful when it comes to pulling them on. Taking them off can be a little tough depending on the sock I’m wearing but that’s getting better too.

SOLE GRIP | The sole on this style is a lower profile tread than the original but that’s what helps them look a bit sleeker too. Still, I find the traction quite good generally, but on very icy, slippery terrain it doesn’t hold super well. You can see the tread below and compare it to the original shown here.


Style Bee - Blundstone Review + Styling Ideas

WARMTH | The winter lining and sheepskin insole in these boots makes them very warm. I’d say they are entirely sufficient for anywhere from -20 (if you’re moving and wearing a warm sock) up to 15 or so degrees celsius with a think sock and the insole swapped, otherwise they’ll be too hot.

If you don’t need additional warmth of the Thinsulate lining or the sheepskin insole you can opt for the same style in straight leather with a regular insole. Find that version here for $40 CAD less.

As it is, I’ll be wearing my Winter Chisel Toe Blunnies well into spring. I imagine they’ll be great for the next 2+ months at least.

ARE THEY REALLY WATERPROOF | Oh yep. I’ve waltzed through inches of slush, deep snow, downpours and more without so much as a hint at a damp toe.

COMFORT LEVEL | They are SO comfy! I wear them daily for dogs walks but I’ve worn them for hikes, plane rides and entire days at a time. The break-in period was almost non-existent and there were no signs of the blisters or hot spots that I was expecting in the heel area. The sheepskin insole/footbed is soft and adds a cushioned feel too. They’re solid so you know they’re on but not super heavy.

That’s about all I could think of to cover on this review but feel free to ask me any further questions you might have! Now onto….


BLUNDSTONE STYLING IDEAS


LOOK 1


Style Bee - Blundstone Review + Styling Ideas

SWEATER COAT* (use LEE15 for 15% Off) | STRIPED CREWNECK* | PERFECT VINTAGE JEANS | BLUNDSTONE BOOTS (also here in Canada) | BLACK BAG* | BROWN BELT | *Old items, linked similar options.


This is an outfit you might find me in on a weekend or for an average day of running errands when I’ll be in and out of a car or shop. I like pairing these boots with cropped jeans so the hem doesn’t get caught around the top of the boot. I think this also creates a visually slimming effect around the ankle, especially with a tapered pant leg.

Pairing a sturdy boot with light pieces like these summer jeans and my cream sweater coat offer a nice contrast, yet, they’re not too refined to look out of place. The dark buttons on the cardigan and the black leather bag offer some repetition as well to keep the black boot from feeling heavy. A classic striped fitted sweater and a belt add a little bit of polish to bring it all together.


Style Bee - Blundstone Review + Styling Ideas

LOOK 2


Style Bee - Blundstone Review + Styling Ideas

VINTAGE HOUNDSTOOTH COAT* | SWEATER DRESS* | TIGHTS | WOOL SOCKS | BLUNDSTONE BOOTS (also here in Canada) | MINDY CARAMEL TOTE* | *old, linked to similar


This look is something you might find me in for a meeting, weekend day trip, cafe work session or casual dinner out. I wanted to see if I could make these boots work with a dress and so far my sweater dress is the one I feel works best. I think the short length is critical to balancing the proportions.

I added my opaque black tights (high opacity is key) and a striped wool sock that peeks out of my boots for a bit of texture. It also serves as a visual transition from a refined element (the tights) to a rugged one (the boots). To add some interest I topped it off with my houndstooth vintage coat and grabbed my caramel tote to warm things up.

I think a crisp white button down shirt dress or denim shirt dress would also work really well and same goes for a simple cotton shift in an earthy colour.


Style Bee - Blundstone Review + Styling Ideas
Style Bee - Blundstone Review + Styling Ideas

LOOK 3


Style Bee - Blundstone Review + Styling Ideas

CAMEL WOOL COAT* | IVORY CASHMERE SWEATER* | RILEY JEANS | CROSSBODY BAG (Similar linked use LEEV20 for 20% Off) | LIP COLOUR | BLUNDSTONE BOOTS (also here in Canada) | *old, linked to similar



Finally, this look is what I’d say has been a predominant winter uniform this year. I’m a huge fan of this classic palette (ivory, denim, camel, black and a pop of cognac) and the ease of refined comfort and timeless pieces. I just kept this one super simple and didn’t even bother with a French tuck on this sweater because it’s already slightly cropped and covers the waist on the jeans nicely.

While these jeans do overlap the top of the boots they don’t get caught because the opening is wide enough that the ankle of the boots can move freely within the pant leg as I walk. To take this look out into the winter weather I just add a beanie, gloves and a big scarf.


Style Bee - Blundstone Review + Styling Ideas
Style Bee - Blundstone Review + Styling Ideas

I hope this post was fun for all the Blunnie fans out there! I’m glad to finally be part of the club!

Got a favourite of these looks or a way you like to style them? Let me know! I’m all for some additional ideas.


This post is not sponsored but contains affiliate links. When you shop via the links above I may make commission on a sale. Thanks for supporting Style Bee! All opinions are always my own.

Leave me a comment here!

  1. Carina says:

    Thank you for posting! I found your styling tips super helpful. I’m confident in getting the rustic black now after seeing how beautifully they pair with the outfits you choose. Do you have a post on how to style these in the summer? I want to wear my thermal pair 1478 all year round but worry they might not look great or work well with my outfits in the warmer months compared to the lighter shade in the rustic brown. Any suggestions? What has your experience been like?

  2. JENny says:

    I know this is a bit of an older post, but the styling of the bluntsones with a sweater dress is super helpful as I’m starting to spend more time in the office again (and winter has officially hit in Ottawa!).

  3. Win says:

    Hey there! Love your style! It’s nice to see that you would wear these to a meeting. Are you finding them pretty acceptable for office wear? I’m debating btw these and the heels version because I work in a more formal (blazers and trousers) environment. But my feet are fussy and they require comfort so no dressy pumps and fancy heels for me. Also wondering about black vs rustic black. You seem to have made the rustic black work for a dressy outfit. Yum! Love to hear your thoughts!

  4. Mel says:

    Hi! I like your review and I’m considering these in either black or rustic black. Is there a reason you chose rustic black over black? Thanks!

  5. Nicole says:

    Haha The Tap Dogs / Bootmen look!

  6. Rachel says:

    Hi! Love this post, and I’m curious – have your Blunnies gotten easier to put on and take off? I just got a pair in Shiraz and am considering returning them. So comfy to wear, but terrible to remove! Thanks!

    • Lee the Bee says:

      Hi Rachel! Yes, they’ve gotten much easier to pull off. It used to be a whole thing but now I can just use the toe of my other foot to slide them off hands-free. If you love them I’d stick it out until they break in. Definitely worth it in my opinion. xo

  7. Alana F says:

    Heya!

    Love how you’ve styled them. I’m on the fence about the chisel toe vs. the Women’s 1671 version with a bit of a heel. It’s a bit of a wrestling match to get them off/on however a salesman introduced me to a BOOT JACK which is a genius invention to slip them right off. Still trying to figure out which one is best. The heel is a bit sexier but the flat ones are probably great for walking!
    Are the winter ones too roomy once you’ve taken winter socks and sheearling insoles out of the equation?

    • Lee the Bee says:

      Hey Alana, great question! I’d say the difference is between 1/4 and 1/2 size difference but I rarely swap the shearling insole out because it’s not so warm that you can’t get away with wearing them well into the spring. By the time I’m ready to swap it out, I’m ready for some warm weather footwear anyway.

      In regards to heel vs not I think it just depends on where you’ll be wearing them primarily. I almost never need hiking boots or even rain boots since I got my chisel toe blunnies and I don’t know if the heels would be as wearable for trails, long walks, light hiking or really wet/snowy weather. The heeled version is definitely more versatile in the other direction, for city style and more dressed-up scenarios.

      Hope that helps and thanks for checking out the post!

  8. Zoe says:

    I love look 2! Do you know the name of the socks in that look? They are perfect together 🙂

    • Lee the Bee says:

      Hi Zoe, Those socks were a pair I picked up locally but if you search for ‘camp socks’ places like LL Bean often have some 🙂 Thanks for reading! xo

  9. Tina Martinez says:

    Hi There!

    I’m new to your site and would like to compliment you on your fantastic sense of style. The review of Blundstones was particularly helpful to me (and how I came to find your blog). I’m looking for an all-purpose pair to travel to Ireland and Scotland with. I’m curious about the type of hikes you’ve walked on with these boots.

    Thanks so much for any other input you can add.

    Best,

    Tina

    • Lee the Bee says:

      Hi Tina, Welcome to Style Bee! So glad you found your way to this space and have found it helpful. I’ve been on lots of different hikes in my Blundstones but most have been on relatively groomed and well travelled trails. They are warm and comfy and fully water proof which I’ve put to the test many times. That said, the tread on the chisel toe is not super grippy or slip resistant on wet or icy surfaces.

      During my honeymoon my husband and I traveled to Scotland and did a fair amount of hiking. During this trip I wore my AKU Hiking boots and they were wonderful. You can see more on that trip in this post.

      Thanks and I hope that helps!

  10. Jordyn says:

    I really enjoyed your article! I was on the fence to buying myself a pair before I read your post however I loved the way you stylized the boots so I am considering buying myself a pair now! I was so worried these shoes would feel too wide and clunky, I am relieved to know they have a more tapered and fitted look. THANKS!!

    • Lee the Bee says:

      So glad this review was helpful for you Jordyn! I thought the same thing but they’ve become one of my favourite pairs of boots. Thanks for reading! xo

  11. Melissa says:

    Do you prefer the chisel toe look over the classic round toe? I am curious which you feel is more versatile? Thanks, and I adore your outfits!

    • Lee the Bee says:

      Thanks Melissa! Yes, I personally prefer the chisel toe style over the classic. I’m generally drawn to clean lines and minimal design in my clothing so I felt that those would be more versatile for me. I think they can be dressed up a little easier as well. The classics are great though too. I have several friends with those and they love them so you can’t go wrong. I hope that helps!

  12. Tanya says:

    Any thoughts on the type of summer/fall sock (ie not too heavy) that would look best with Blundstone?

    • Lee the Bee says:

      Oh good question! I would probably go for something like a simple rib in an interesting colour like umber (I love the looks of these) or if you want to have some fun, Hansel From Basel makes some incredible socks. Would look great to have a pattern or print peek out at the top if you wear a cropped pant with them. Hope that helps!

  13. Lauren says:

    Thank you so much for this review!! I’ve been debating over whether or not to give these boots a shot as well. I love how you’ve styled them here, especially with the jeans. You have pretty much convinced me!

  14. Rach says:

    I have to admit I am a bit amused by everyone wearing blundstones. I am Australian and can remember vividly donning my blundstones, levis 501’s and a pretty top to hit the pubs in the early 90’s. Workman chic!

    • Lee the Bee says:

      Haha I can understand your amusement Rach! Australia has put out some pretty great footwear over the years, we just take a little while to catch on over here 🙂 Thanks for reading! xo

  15. Jo says:

    Hi Lee,

    Really enjoyed this post. As one of your Aussie fans I’ve been a long time blunnies wearer (about to retire a pair I’ve had for 15 years). So loved seeing how you style them! I was wondering whether you ever pair them with either your Andy pants or Florence pants from ES? And congrats on the fab new website 🥳.

  16. Tannis says:

    One thing I have learned from years of Blundstone wear is that the leather-lined versions don’t have the same break-in issues. I have high arches and the break-in on the older models that were not leather-lined were brutal. My last pair was leather-lined and I had no discomfort during the initial wears. I always recommend the leather-lined versions to friends and they have noticed a difference as well.

  17. Emilie Morin-Fournier says:

    Thank you for this post! I love seeing other people wear Blundstones with more feminine additions.
    I’ve had mine for the last three years, and wear them from October to April!

  18. Kimberly Baker says:

    Hi Lee, You’re rockin’ those Blundstone boots. In Vancouver, they’ve always been on trend, but now they’ve taken over! Especially with the guys. I bought my husband a pair 18 years ago when I was studying at ANU in Australia. Although they’ve been resoled at least twice, he still wears them today. They’re a good investment.

    • Lee the Bee says:

      Thanks Kimberly! I know what you mean about them being everywhere out west. The same has happened in Toronto now too haha. That’s awesome to hear your husband has had his for 18 years, wow! I’ll be amazed if Dave’s make it a full decade but now I have hope.

  19. Shey says:

    Love these outfit suggestions! I find it tough to really dress mine up so thank you for the ideas! I did want to mention for anyone who has wide feet and a high arch that these babies take a LONG time to break in for that foot shape. Mine were so stiff at first that they literally tore my heel apart for about 6 months. I could only wear them for about 2 hours with a week recovery time in between haha! In the very beginning they even made my toes fall asleep due to my high arch and their stiffness. But they finally relaxed and now they are super comfy and a daily wear. Just wanted to let anyone who has spent the money on them, got them home, and found them horrible at first that there is light at the end of the tunnel! And they are worth it!

    • Lee the Bee says:

      Thanks so much for sharing that fit and break-in experience Shey! I’m so glad they finally feel great but that sounds pretty torturous! Way to hang in there.

      One trick I learned from my shoe repair expert was to heat the leather up where it’s too tight with a hair dryer (not too hot but enough for it to relax a bit) and use the rounded end of a broom (or any round wooden handle) to gently work the area from the inside. It helps to shape the leather and it’s worked wonders on stiff spots in the past.

    • Shey says:

      That sounds like a great trick! I will save that for future shoes/boots. If I even look at leather footware I tend to get a blister so any break-in tips are greatly welcomed!

  20. Sarah Winton says:

    I don’t have Blundstones but I do have a pair of Frye boots that have a similar vibe. I’ve been really stuck for how to style them but this post has definitely given me some ideas!

  21. Katy says:

    Thank you for this timely post! I’d been debating picking up a pair and now I’m gonna do it. Love the way you styled them — especially into the idea of the sleekness of tights to balance the slight chunkiness of the boot. Also, I’ve been meaning to say how much I’m enjoying your new format and all the new bells and whistles! Bravo!!

    • Lee the Bee says:

      Thanks so much for the feedback on the new design Katy! So happy you’re enjoying it. I really think you’ll love your Blundstones and would love to hear how you find them. xo

  22. Marine Leisy says:

    I bought my first pair of Blundstones back in December and have been wearing them practically every day since! I mostly wear them with a combo similar to your third styling here, but also love them with a cropped/cigarette style black pant with fun socks peeking out at the ankle. I’ve only worn them once with a dress and tights and I felt it was a super cute and fierce combo. These pair really well with all of my outerwear, and it’s safe to say I’ll be wearing them for years to come!

    • Lee the Bee says:

      So glad you love your Blundstones too Marine! Oh love the idea of pairing them with a cropped black pant with some socks peeking out. I’ll be giving that a try for sure and I think I might opt for a tunic length top in that case. Thanks for the inspiration! xo