Have I mentioned enough times that I am in love these Dolce Vita boots? They are the perfect black ankle boot- not too dressy, not too casual and with a pop of brown. I have previously mentioned that I have been looking for a cheaper version of the same look and kept coming up empty. One day while browsing the Target shoe aisles I saw a simple black pair. They were the right shape, but a little plain.
Once I got them home, I started thinking about how to create the DV look with my Target boots. I realized I could add my own ankle straps with a few simple rivets and some faux leather.
The supplies I used were 12 sets of size small antique brass rivets and a rivet setter, three faux leather belts, a leather hole punch and some boots.
I cut up several faux leather belts to the lengths I needed to wrap around the ankles of each boot. I then used the hole punch to punch a hole near the zipper and riveted the first strap in.
I wanted the straps to cross so I started the first strap near the top and wrapped it around to rivet it farther down.
Then I wrapped a second strap and riveted each end.
You can see the difference already between the before and after. I added a third strap a well.
It was such a surprisingly easy project and made a dramatic difference in these boots. I just love the detail in these boots now and wear them all of the time. Not to mention they are such a low heel that they are great shoes for mommas and really comfortable.
I’ve been on a shoe makeover kick lately- what have you been making over? Leave a link in the comments- I’d love to see!

I love this!!!!! What a great idea, and cute and easy way to accessorize a pair of boots! LOVE it, thanks for sharing!!!
ReplyDeleteWow, who'd a thought. I am so glad for blogs like yours. I really honestly would never have thought to make my own. either I go without or spend way too much then regret it later. love the idea!!
ReplyDeleterun-style-run.blogspot.com
I'm so glad that I'm following you! LOVE this idea!
ReplyDeleteKatie
ww.funhomethings.com
Kilee, I'm in love with this refashion! I'm doing a little feature on my blog in the next few weeks called Sew and Tell. I would LOVE to feature this one along with the other refashions people have submitted. The deadline is tonight, but just for you I'll extend it a day or two if you can get me your photos asap.
ReplyDeleteHere's some more info and the submission rules: http://merricksart.blogspot.com/2012/10/sew-and-tell.html
If you're interested, I'd love to feature you!
Was googling to try to figure out what to call these: https://www.etsy.com/listing/113102676/80s-black-suede-booties-9-b but I found your blog and am happily sidetracked! So creative :)
ReplyDeleteokay this is an awesome idea and as soon as these come back in stock I am buying them! Could I send them to you to put the leather on them? No seriously! I would pay shipping to and from and whatever the materials.
ReplyDeleteLOVE these boots!! I was just trying to figure out how to utilize this pair of skinny leopard belts - NOW I just need to find the boots!! FAB idea!
ReplyDeletecame to your blog via Merrick's Sew and Tell. Fabulous boots! This project alone would be worth getting myself a rivet-er!
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ReplyDeleteI have those Target boots...and I just happened to check out those Dolce Vita ones online and loved them...then I found this tutorial...Coincidence? I think not. More like stars aligning. xoDana
ReplyDeleteI love what you did with these....so creative and easy to do!!
ReplyDeletehttp://thriftyandshameless.blogspot.com