Let me start by saying these boots are *stunners*. The sleek black leather and Chelsea silhouette had me at hello. They’re the kind of shoes that make you feel instantly put-together, whether you’re pairing them with skinny jeans or a midi dress. The pull-on design? Genius—no fumbling with zippers, though I quickly learned removal requires a bit of a wrestling match (more on that later).

The first wear had me swooning. The cushioned footbed felt like walking on clouds, and the block heel gave just enough lift without screaming 'I’m new to heels.' I wore them to a brunch date, then ran errands afterward—zero complaints. They even survived an unexpected drizzle thanks to my preemptive waterproofing spray (a MUST for the unlined interior).

But here’s the plot twist: By month three, our honeymoon phase ended. The leather stubbornly refused to soften, leaving my ankles in a perpetual chokehold. The sole started peeling like sunburnt skin, and let’s just say my feet staged a mutiny after 8-hour workdays. My $20 TJ Maxx boots outlasted these—a brutal truth for a $100+ investment.

Final verdict? These are your 'special occasion' boots—perfect for photoshoots or dinner dates where you’ll mostly be sitting. Daily warriors should look elsewhere unless you enjoy playing footsie with discomfort.