I loved these
boots on screen but in real life they're so much better! The smell, the feel of the leather, the craftsmanship are all perfect but then again that's just
Frye. I have the Jane stitch in redwood and I love them now as much as I did when I got them 4 years ago. Here are a few things I've found with these
boots now that I have them in hand: 1. The black soft vintage looks really vintagy and actually borderline black/gray. I love it. Though if you're looking for something a little dressier, this color may not be it. I think the black vintage is a truer black from what I've heard. 2. No matter the boot or brand, I always have issues fitting my thick calves into
boots. Most
boots I can't even get half way up my calf. These are a 15" circumference (not all 15" are equal I've learned) but they actually fit over my bare leg! I was floored. The reason I will only buy Fryes now is because the cobbler can stretch them out because the quality of the leather can hold up to it. I had this done to my Jane stitches and you would never know it and I can fit
jeans into them now. I'm wearing the Melissa buttons today with just stockings and it looks like they were made for my leg. I'll get them stretched anyway so I can wear them with
jeans. 3. They need breaking in. It's not too bad (today is the first day I'm wearing them) but they're rubbing against the back of my heels a bit (toward the top). 4. They are very true to size. The toe box for me is just enough to wiggle my toes but if you have wide feet you may run into some issues (that the cobbler may be able to help you with). If you want to wear thicker
socks you may want to go a half size up. If you're not sure, get them anyway because Zappos has the best customer service ever. You can return them and get a different size. In summary, if you're on the fence about these, don't be. The
boots are everything you ever wanted in a pair of
boots and more and will last you forever. My Jane Stitches look brand new and I abuse them and wear them daily. In 4 years, I've replaced the sole 1 time but the leather and inside of the
boots is perfect. I highly recommend these
boots and
Frye in general.