Archive for October, 2009
The Boot Wars – What’s Happening to the Australian UGG?
Posted by admin in Shoes, Ugg Fashion, fashion news on October 29th, 2009
When Brian Smith first came to the United States with a bag full of Australian UGG boots and started an international fashion craze he had no way of knowing that the UGG brand name he trademarked for his boots would start an international marketing war.
UGG’ is a generic term like ‘trainers’ or ’sneakers," says Australian parliament member Sharryn Jackson. "It defies belief that an Australian icon would be trademarked in the US."
The controversy over the patented use of the word UGG (and the lawsuits that Australian manufacturers have been facing resulting from their continued use of this casual term, used to refer to a style of sheepskin boot that has been popular among men women and children in Australia for the past four decades or longer) has raged since the Australian born surfer patented the term "UGG" to refer to his line of sheepskin boots being marketed in the United States and sold the trademark to Decker Outdoor Corporation. Since then, according to Australian companies, Decker and their subsidiary, UGG Holdings Inc., have tried vehemently to squash any attempt to market a boot bearing the name UGG-even though the term UGG was used to describe these pieces of practical and fashionable footwear long before Smith ever crossed the Atlantic.
Australians believe they’ve been more than patient with Brian Smith’s attempts to carry the Australian tradition to the western hemisphere, offering little protest when he first applied for a patent for the term UGG with regard to his footwear even though federal trade law firmly states that generic terms cannot be patented to prevent the hundreds of millions of lawsuits that would result from situations like this one where a brand name attempts to hog the market on a product used and sold by manufacturers across an entire continent. They even kept silent when moved production of brand name UGG boots to China, where manufacturing can be done for a fraction of the cost of having the supposedly authentic Australian boots actually made in Australia, even though it was seen by many as an insult to the Australian people to move production of a native Australian product overseas.
But attempting to stop Australian manufacturers from marketing UGG boots as UGGs was the last straw for many.
"We have been selling sheepskin products for 30 years, long before UGG boots became popular in America and the UK, to have to give up the name is just not fair," Mr. Sullivan, production manager at Westhaven Industries. Westhaven is a non-profit organization whose Dubbo, Australia factory employs the disabled to produce UGG boots for the Australian market. The company is currently among those facing legal action from Decker.
What You Always Wanted to Know About Ugg Boots
Posted by admin in Shoes, Ugg Fashion, fashion news on October 28th, 2009
Ugg boots have been a growing fashion trend for the last few years. Every shoe and clothing store you visit have displays of them, all of your friends are wearing them, I’m sure you have at least one pair in your closet right now. You can find them in several different styles and colors. They are unisex boots and can be worn by everyone in the family from infant, child, woman, or man.
One of the great things about Ugg boots is you have a multitude of colors to choose from. You can have a different pair to go with every outfit. They come in colors such as: chestnut; tan; pink; black; blue; and so many more. You are not limited to just the natural colors anymore.
You can also decide between short or tall Ugg boots or even three quarter length. If you can not decide which style you want you can even consider slippers or clogs. There are new styles coming out all the time. If you still can not decide which style of Ugg boot you want, then buy them all. You can never have too many pairs of Ugg boots.
Imagine the choices you could have with all the styles and colors. You could wear a different pair everyday to match your wardrobe or even your mood. With Ugg boots you are not limited in any way. What ever your preference, you will find it in an Ugg boot.
One of the styles is the mini Ugg boots. These boots are flat with a rubber sole and they are shorter than ankle high and it is a slip-on boot. Another style is the Cove Ugg boot, this boot comes in a short ankle height length and has a low heel. The Cove Ugg boot laces around the side and back and ties in the front.
You also have the Crochet Ugg boot which comes in the shorter boot that is right above the ankle and the taller boot that goes above the calf. The taller crochet boot does not have laces. The shorter Crochet Ugg boots have buttons down the side. They are crocheted boots, I guess the name says it all.
You can find the pair of Ugg boots that fits your style, size, and budget just about anywhere. They are sold in clothing and shoe stores around the world and can be bought from numerous websites. Finding the perfect Ugg boot for you should be as simple as deciding what your style will be.
Teen Girl Left the House Without Permission, What Should Mom Do?
Posted by admin in Shoes, Ugg Fashion, fashion news, women's shoes on October 17th, 2009
A frustrated mom asks on the forum: My 13 yr old daughter left the house while I was at the supermarket. When I returned home I saw a note that said ‘went for a walk will be back later’.
In the morning I reminded her of the chores and homework that she needed to do today. There would be no TV, laptop use, IPod etc., until everything was done. She had asked me to allow her to do everything on Monday (3rd day in the holiday weekend).
To be clear, her chores are her laundry, clean her bathroom, clean cat litter box and straighten out desk/bookcase in her room. Her HW is reading about 25 pages & answering 8 questions. Finally, I had recently purchased a pair of UGG boots for her BUT I am now thinking she should not get to wear them until she shapes up.
What else should I do, the leaving the house without permission and am I doing the right thing about the boots?
Denise’s thoughts: You’ve gotten some good advice here, so I just wanted to pipe in and add one preventative measure I use in my home. There is no ‘doing it later’ here in the Witmer household. Our kids are used to doing homework the second they get home while eating their snack. It makes for wonderful stress-free evenings. I started this when my oldest was in 1st grade and she still does it now while in college.
So I suggest the next time she asks to do her chores/homework later – and every time after that – say, ‘Sure. And you can wait until then to use your computer, iPod, cell phone, and television too. Privileges are great to have but responsibilities come first.’
UGG Classic Cardy by Size – Buying the Right Size UGG Cardy Boot Online
Posted by admin in Shoes, Ugg Fashion, fashion news, women's shoes on October 16th, 2009
When it comes to shopping for UGG Classic Cardy by size, there are some things to know before making a purchase – it can be rather frustrating to order “exactly” the boots you are looking for, only to find out that the boots do not fit right when they arrive. It’s also important to know what to do if you are not able to find them in the size you are looking for.
Sizing Information for the UGG Classic Cardy: These boots are known to run about one size large – they are also only available in full sizes.
Rules – how to order the right size:
- If you are a “full size” – for example you normally wear a 7 as opposed to a 7 1/2, it is recommended to order one full size down from your normal size (in the example, this would be a size 6).
- If you are a “half size” – It is recommended to order 1 & 1/2 sizes down from your normal size. For example if you normally wear a size 8 ½, ordering a size 7 should get you a good fit.
The Right Fit for an UGG Cardy Boot: These boots are made to fit snugly. If they are put on at first and they feel a bit too snug they should be fine – they conform to the shape of the foot quite nicely and should feel comfortable after a short time of wear. However, if the fit goes beyond “snug” and they feel far too tight on the foot, you should then exchange them for a size larger.
Shopping for UGG Classic Cardy by Size during the winter months: During the coldest months of the year, UGG Classic Cardy boots may be difficult to track down in the specific size you are looking for – especially if you wear a more common size such as a 7 or 8. There are ways to track down the right size, however. One suggestion is to check out various auction sites – although the combination of high demand and low supply tends to drive the prices up during these times.
Why Aussie Made Ugg Boots Are Better Than Mass-Made, China-Made Ugg Boots
Posted by admin in Shoes, Ugg Fashion, fashion news on October 15th, 2009
The Ugg boot, being both practical and stylish, has started a craze that has erupted all over the world. Its popularity has lead many people to open up their own ugg boot businesses that claim they are selling high quality shoes made of the finest Australian Merino sheepskin. But how can boots that are mass-made in China be made of the best Australian materials, such has high quality Merino wool? The answer is simple; they aren’t. While Chinese Ugg boots are cheaper to make with their fake sheepskin, only the true Australian-made ones will provide you with long lasting, comfortable shoes.
The main difference between these shoes is that all genuine Australian Ugg boots are made of high quality merino sheepskin. Merino wool is famous world wide for its thick, soft fibres that create the perfect Ugg boot. There is plenty of merino wool to go around as merino sheep make up 80% of the Australian sheep population, but that hasn’t stopped people trying to open up their own businesses with fake Uggs. These rip-off boots do look the same as the high quality Australian ones, but the standard of them is completely different.
There are three main reasons why you should buy authentic Australian made Ugg boots instead of the cheap, fake versions. The first is the quality of merino sheepskin. Merino wool is the most popular in the Australian wool industry because of its high standard. The soft fibres make for a comfortable boot that will keep you warm all winter long. Chinese, mass-made Ugg boots do not use merino wool, and usually don’t even use sheepskin, opting instead for a synthetic material or cow hide. These materials do not make Ugg boots with the same comfort.
The second is that they are fine to wear all year round. Merino sheepskin is very warm and makes the boots great for winter, but the material is also extremely breathable, making them great for summer. Ugg boots have become very popular with people all over the world for this very reason. It doesn’t matter if you live in a warm, tropical climate; your feet will never get too hot because the air is able to circulate inside the shoe.
The final reason why you should buy genuine, Aussie Uggs is that they will last longer. The merino sheepskin used is of a very high quality that will last you a long time and because the material allows your feet to breathe, they won’t get sweaty causing the fabric to decay. Cheap synthetic materials will make your feet sweat and the Ugg boots will begin to rot, only lasting a few wears before they need to be thrown away. Merino fleece is also very strong and durable, so you will be able to wear your Uggs for a long time.
Classic UGG Crochet – Styles of Crochet Boots From UGG Australia
Posted by admin in Shoes, Ugg Fashion, fashion news on October 14th, 2009
When looking for a boot that has a good bit of style versatility as well as the ultimate comfortable fit, it is definitely worth the time to take a look at Classic UGG Crochet boots. This year there are two styles of crochet boots from the UGG “Classic” collection, for both women and girls. Here is a bit of information about each of the styles:
Classic UGG Cardy Crochet – These boots have been around for a couple of years now, and I can almost not say enough good things about them! These are not only amazingly comfortable with a sheepskin sock lining and wool blend upper, but they have a style that befits women who love an all-time classic – the cardigan sweater. These boots are quite versatile with the ability to be worn up the leg and buttoned, pushed down the leg for a slouchy and more casual look or even folded over for a completely different appearance. They are available in both women’s and girls’ sizes and will likely become even more popular than they have been due to their unique color selection this year.
Classic Crochet Boot – This is the original “Crochet Classic” from UGG. From what I am able to tell, they are no longer in production but can still sometimes be found online. They have a simpler design than the Cardy yet have some versatility with the ability to be worn straight up the leg or slouched down for a more casual look. These are also available in both women’s and girls sizes, but it can be a bit of a trick to find them online. They are, however, available from a few different merchants – often for markdown prices.
No matter which style of boots one might choose from the Classic UGG Crochet collection, it is almost certain that they will become a top favorite in a fall and winter wardrobe!
Classic Stripe UGG Boots – Color, Style and Sizing Tips
Posted by admin in Shoes, Ugg Fashion, fashion news on October 13th, 2009
This year, UGG Australia has created some unique and fun styles in boots for women – Classic Stripe UGG Boots are a perfect example of this! These boots are a great addition to a casual winter wardrobe, and are definitely a fun new look for women. However if you are shopping, there are a few things to know about the boot that could be helpful before making a purchase.
Colors: All of the Classic Stripe boots have a “dark against light” striped look, but there are three separate color combination’s to choose from including Black/Cream, Chocolate/Cream and Navy/Cream. All of these color combination’s can be quite versatile with a casual winter ensemble, and are a great choice to wear with jeans.
Style: These boots have a cable stripe knit, the stripes are positioned in a horizontal pattern. The look of the boots can be adjusted by pushing the boots down the leg a little or a lot for a slouchy or “scrunchy” look. As a tip, with the horizontal stripes, these boots may not be a good choice for ladies with a wider calf – the stripes can add width to the leg. However for ladies with a thinner calf they are a great choice to add a bit of a shapely look.
Sizing: The Classic Stripe knit UGG boot is available in full sizes only and is known to run about a size large. For women who wear a full size, it is advised to purchase one full size down from normal, while for women who are between sizes (”half size”), purchasing a size one and a half down from normal should provide a good fit. As a note, these boots should fit snugly without feeling uncomfortable – they are known to stretch a bit and conform to the foot to provide the perfect, comfortable fit.
For ladies who love a bit of “pizzazz” with their winter wardrobe, Classic Stripe UGG Boots might just be the perfect choice – if the information above is followed, they can normally be purchased online for a lower price, with a great fit the first time.
Argyle UGG Classic Boots – What to Know Before You Buy
Posted by admin in Shoes, Ugg Fashion, fashion news on October 12th, 2009
Many women this year have caught wind of some new boots among the Classic collection from UGG Australia – Argyle UGG Classic Boots. These have one of the most romantic and lovely looks for women and are perfect for ladies who love a classic style with just a touch of flair. Here are some helpful tips – some good things to know before purchasing a pair of the Argyle boots from UGG:
Colors: The colors available for the Argyle boots are mainly warm and what could be considered “wintery” shades. My personal favorite is the Cream color – but other shades such as Charcoal Grey, Black, Stout and Fig can also be found and are versatile enough to go with practically anything.
Style: The Argyle knit style is unmistakable – it has the look of a diamond pattern “fisherman” design and is just as romantic and cozy looking as a favorite knit sweater – but for the feet!
Comfort: The Argyle boots – just as with other boots from UGG Australia – are lined with a sheepskin sock, making them luxuriously comfortable and easy to wear. The wool blend upper makes them even more warm and cozy.
Sizing: The Argyle boots are known to run about a size larger than a standard footwear size for women, and are made in full sizes only. For women who normally wear a full size, it is recommended to purchase one size down, while for women who wear a half size, purchasing one and a half sizes down is the best bet to get the correct fit. One should also be aware that when first putting on the boots they should feel a bit snug without discomfort. After wearing, they conform to feet and stretch a bit to provide a great fit.
Argyle UGG Classic Boots are a personal fashion favorite of mine for this fall and winter – I think that plenty of women will agree and this may just become one of the most worn and loved boots by ladies this season!
Bailey Button UGG Boots For Women – New Addition to the Classics From UGG Australia
Posted by admin in Shoes, Ugg Fashion, fashion news on October 11th, 2009
The Bailey Button UGG Boots from UGG Australia are a new addition this year (2009) to the lineup of classics for women. They have an interesting, unique look while still maintaining the basic traditional “classic” design that has become so well known in the fashion world.
General appearance of the Bailey Button: The height of the Bailey Button boot is the same as the “Classic Short” from UGG Australia (8 inch shaft height). The difference in the boots is the opening on the inside of both the left and right boot, with a button closure. One thing that adds a touch of flair to this look is the button itself – a large wooden button bearing the “UGG Australia” logo that goes with a loop closure to keep the boots snugly in place.
Colors and looks: There are both traditional and unique colors for the Bailey Button UGG – colors such as Chestnut Brown, Black and Sand are easily recognized and quite popular, but there are metallic shades as well that definitely have a bit more “pizzazz” than the traditional sheepskin suede shades. Like other styles among the classics, this boot can be folded down (cuffed) for a completely different look – adding more versatility to it’s style.
Even though Bailey Button UGG Boots are a new style this fall from UGG Australia, there are already signs that they could become some of the most popular boots in the women’s UGG Classics collection. They truly have a fun, unique and romantic look and would be a great addition to any woman’s fall and winter wardrobe.
UGG Classic Argyle – The History Behind UGG Boots
Posted by admin in Shoes, Ugg Fashion, fashion news on October 10th, 2009
have been in existence since the 1970’s. The boots became popular when surfers in Australia realized that these boots served the purpose of quickly warming their feet as needed. Sheepskin is a dual faced layer of skin with wool on one side and fleece on the other. This maintains the thermostatic nature of the sheepskin, therefore making the warmest possible boots. Upon this realization, the popularity of these boots grew worldwide.
Ugg boots are not a new product; however, they have become increasingly popular. Recently Ugg has become a trendsetter with great designs as the Ugg Classic cardy and the Ugg Classic Argyle. Due to this popularity trend and the large demand for these boots, footwear manufacturers have taken up producing imitation Ugg boots made of cowhide rather than sheepskin. If you intend to purchase genuine boots, it is important to know where you can purchase them from a reliable source.
The very original boots were disbursed by an Australian manufacturing company named UGG. These boots were released to the public known as Australian Sheepskin Boots. UGG also makes sheepskin slippers and other footwear.
A second reliable manufacturer of sheepskin boots is Canterbury Sheepskin out of New Zealand. This company has been producing Ugg boots for more than 30 years. The brand is well known and the quality of the boots is long-lasting.
To purchase a pair of authentic Ugg classic Argyle boots from either of these manufacturers, you can simply visit any one of the online shoe shops that carry these authentic brands. Many of these online shoe distributors will offer news on the latest trends, corresponding fashions and proper care products for these “gotta-have” Ugg boots.