Navy is the whole argument for this one. Western boots default to tan and black, and a deep blue brushed finish reads differently against denim of any wash. Contrast stitching runs the classic wing pattern up both sides of the shaft, and the topline dips to a V at the front and back the way a proper western boot should. The stitch colour is picked to sit a shade lighter, so the wing reads clearly without turning into a stripe. Nothing here is metallic or studded.

The toe is sharply pointed and the heel is stacked and squared off, so the silhouette stays long and clean rather than bulky. Pull tabs sit at either side of the shaft for leverage, because there is no zip here. It goes on the traditional way, and the mid-calf shaft holds its shape once it is on. Mid-calf is the more forgiving western length, ending below the widest part of the calf, which means it works over a slim jean and under a skirt without bunching.

Velvet Vogue offers it in navy blue only, in US 5.5 through 12. The brushed surface wants brushing rather than washing, so keep it dry and lift the nap with a soft brush now and then instead of taking a damp cloth to it. Given that care, the navy holds its depth.

• Fit: true to size, order your usual size
• Key details: contrast wing embroidery to both sides, V-dip topline front and back, side pull tabs, pointed toe
• Heel: stacked block heel
• Shaft: mid-calf height
• Closure: pull-on
• Sizes and colours: US 5.5 to 12 in navy blue. Model wears a US 7
• Care: brush gently to lift the nap, spot clean only, keep away from water and direct heat