Reboot.

Get your hands on a pair – or three – of these stylish boots and enjoy the last of the cool weather

Brendan Dwyer has been handcrafting boots for almost two decades, his boots have featured in films, and he’s had long-term associations with Circus Oz and the Melbourne Theatre Company. The Spanish-style riding boots you saw in the film Ned Kelly were his work.

How did you get into this line of work?
I started making accessories like hats, belts, and shoes in late 1980s, through a love of fashion.

You’ve done a fair amount of work for theatre and film. How is making footwear for the entertainment industry different?
Sometimes you have all the money you need, but not enough time, and sometimes you have no money and not enough time!

Who are your most famous clients?
In movies, I’ve made boots for David Carradine, Heath Ledger and Naomi Watts.

What’s your favourite creation?
My friends Marc and Tasmin’s wedding shoes: dark green nubuck button-front boots and red high-heeled harem shoes.

Who should buy custom-made boots?
Anyone wanting a better fit and different styling.

What’s the most important thing to consider when buying boots?
Weight often implies better materials, but real leather insoles and quality leather linings will make a better boot every time.

What kind of boots are trendy right now?
Knee-high boots and toes with attitude [that make the foot appear longer and more stylish], and 1940s ankle boots.

How should women wear boots?
With a sexy dress, beautiful legs and a happy smile.

Who do you think is in need of a good pair of boots?
Anyone who has a sense of urban adventure and likes to dress up!

Brendan Dwyer’s workshop is at Room 7, 3rd Flr Nicholas Building, cnr Swanston Street and Flinders Lane, Melbourne. Tel: +61 411 676 572.

EN GUARD

Get that swashbuckler feel with Camper Stuart leather boots for men. This 130-year-old Spanish brand, with its unique philosophy and youthful outlook, is deservedly popular for its quality and stylish designs [2212] Nicole Kidman, Uma Thurman and the Friends cast are among its clientele. This boot is very covetable indeed! RRP AU$500. Camper, Grnd Flr, 28 Queen Victoria Bldg, Sydney, tel: +61 (2) 9261 3910.

IT’S NOT LEATHER

This steel-grey “Nellie” boot by Candy (it also comes in black, chocolate and red) is made from microfibre. Microfibre, you ask? It’s been described as vegan leather and is even touted as superior to leather, as it’s lighter, more durable, water-resistant, and easier to maintain. RRP AU$59.95. Tel: 1800 651 185 for stockists within Australia.

STRUT YOUR STUFF

The “Jolie” boots (nothing to do with Angelina) from the Dr Martens range are the most eye-catching we’ve seen in a while. They come in two versions – zip (AU$250) and twin-strap zip (AU$240) in soft, stone-brushed leather – so edgy and so cool. Team them with a swishy skirt or short pants. Tel: 1800 655 154 for stockists.

SPANISH FLAIR

After enjoying success in the UK and the US, family-owned Spanish bootmakers Sancho have finally launched in Australia and New Zealand. Specialising in classic lines, Sancho carries a wide range of men’s and women’s styles, and each style is made to order, so you can be sure of a perfect fit every time. Men’s boots start from AU$330. Contact Ira Galushkin, tel: +61 412 737 929.

ORTHOTIC CHIC

It’s rare to find orthotic-capable shoes that look stylish, so pounce on the “Kali” suede boots by New Zealand manufacturer Kumfs, who’ve been making comfortable and fashionable shoes for almost three-quarters of a century. RRP AU$259.99; available in chocolate, black and chilli. Tel: + 64 (9) 633 2000.

MAKE A SPLASH

These hand-printed, cotton-lined, awarding-winning Tamara Henriques-designed wellies (gumboots) are too pretty to wear on a rainy day. Wear them instead to the upcoming gardening shows, let them lead the way on the plane or use them to perk up any outfit. You’ll be the centre of attention! RRP from AU$199. Available from pipduck, tel: +61 (2) 4285 7333 for stockists.

TRUE BLUE

Agatha & Me, a 100 per cent Aussie-owned accessories company, uses kangaroo, emu, barramundi and sheep leathers to craft their bags and shoes. The Tirrike (shown here), a stylish ankle boot made of textured kangaroo leather with merino wool, is just one of many beautiful pieces in their collection. RRP AU$395. Tel: +61 438 858 824 for stockists.

SUPERBOOTS

Diana Ferrari’s Supersoft range includes “Winnie” the leather knee-high boot with straps. Sensible heels mean you can run all over town and get loads done, while the cute shape is perfect with skinny jeans, tights or a tunic dress. RRP AU$220; available in black and medium brown. Tel: 1800 808 403 within Australia for stockists.