Lucchese Audine Cowboy Boots - Leather, Snip Toe (For Women)

I'd noticed this boot some time ago. Liked the looping, graceful, mosaic-like designwork but didn't so much care for the color choices or the stitchwork in the design which I did not think were up to the elegance or crafted finesse that the Lucchese brand is known for. Still, when discount time rolls around, you take a second look. I own quite a few pairs of other premium brands, but had never seen a Lucchese I liked that I could afford. I was curious about the "legendary fit" so when the Audine came down the pike at $75, one pair in the Whiskey left in my exact size, 8.5, how could I not give them a try? Many boots smell absolutely atrocious when you first receive them, but the leather smell on these is that wonderful, almost sweet, grassy-vanilla scent that makes it a deep pleasure to open the box. STP did a wonderful job presenting these boots photographically online. There were no surprises when I received the shipment, took the boots out of the box and examined them. They are well crafted except for the stitchery IMHO, but I CANNOT complain for the price. Everything else about these boots is exquisite. Detailing matches up between boots, the outer leather is pliant with a softly luminescent shine, the inside leather lining is smooth, like a fine leather glove, which allows the foot to slip neatly in (they feel great against bare feet), and there is excellent cushioning throughout the insole. Properly snug but not constricting at the vamp. I wasn't sure I'd like the pull straps on the inside but these are of a very strong, smooth fabric that does not rub against your shins. In fact, I don't notice them at all. The fit to the foot is quite nice though not exceptional. Many reviewers on other sites have noted that this boot, the Audine, and Belle (another 10 inch Lucchese with pull straps similarly on the inside) run large. That may be. I have a narrow foot that falls between an 8 and 8.5; hence my general rule of thumb for purchase is size 8 for open toe; 8.5 for closed toe. Lucchese (judging from just this one boot) is not the first brand where there's been a lot of room left at the toe. For me in the Audine it's 2 inches! Still, I would not go down in size because I prefer the feeling of open toe in a closed toe shoe rather than to be cramped. Cowgirl boots can take looking a little clumpy as they're patterned on work boots anyway so I don't mind the length. The leather on these is solidly finished, boots are sturdily constructed, and they look like they will last through all kinds of weather. A plus for me as I wear my boots all day. Lastly, if you are someone who likes dressing in a lot of black and white, these will finish your outfit without a whole lot of thought. They will complement just about anything else you have in the closet for that matter because of the neutral color scheme. Really, really happy with my purchase and the speed with which I received! Thank you so much.