Boots by Afro Chic

Registration Begins!

2011-08-28T08:00:00.000-07:00

Registration for Boots and Costume Customisation begins today, Monday 29th August 2011.

Please ensure that you read the Registration and Order Process and

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) posted above.

Should you have any questions after reading please send us an email at: afro.chic@hotmail.com

Registration Begins Soon!

2011-02-21T09:16:00.000-08:00

And The Winner Is...

2011-02-02T03:37:00.001-08:00

CONGRATULATIONS TO...

Dianne Askaran Lee

Winner of the Boot Decorating Service valued at $300.00!

Congratulations!

An email will be sent to you with details on redeeming your prize.

Take part and win Boot Decorating Services!

2011-01-31T05:00:00.000-08:00

ONE Lucky winner will win Boot Decorating Services valued at $300 (TTD)

To Enter Todays Sweepstakes

LIKE Boots By Afro Chic Fanpage on Facebook

http://www.facebook.com/BootsbyAfroChic

and use the CONTACT tab to send an email answering the following question:

In what year was Boots by Afro Chic started?

The winner will be chosen by random draw from among the correct answers to the question.

Sweepstakes Rules:
1. Only entries submitted via the CONTACT tab on the Boots By Afro Chic fanpage will be eligible for the draw.
2. Boots must be supplied by the person who wins the sweepstakes.
3. Boots must be received on or before the 14th February 2011 so that there is adequate time to deocrate the boots.
4. Contest Closes on Tuesday 1st February 2011 at 6:00pm
5. Winner will be announced on www.trinidadcarnivaldiary.com on Wednesday February 2,2011

Registration for T&T Carnival 2011 is CLOSED

2010-10-22T11:13:00.000-07:00

Due to an overwhelming response we have had to close off boot registration for T&T Carnival 2011. Thanks for the support and we look forward to receiving and customising your boots!

Remember the deadline for receipt of boots and downpayment is Friday 31st December 2010.

For details on where you can drop off your footwear please send me an email at: afro.chic@hotmail.com

Platinum Carnival Diva Decorating Services

2010-09-20T12:51:00.000-07:00

Need your cup blinged out? Corset decorated? How about that wire bra?

In addition to custom decorated boots, Afro Chic will be offering the Platinum Carnival Diva Decorating service, customising ANYTHING you desire to complement and complete the look your Carnival costume...GO BIG, OR GO HOME!

Our creativity is only limited by your imagination.

You can fill out the registration form here: http://afrochic.wufoo.com/forms/platinum-carnival-diva-services-by-afro-chic/

Regional and International Carnivals

2010-05-14T08:09:00.001-07:00

If you are interested in having your boots done for those regional and international Carnivals, please send me an email with the following info:

Your name
Email address
Location
Costume photo
Boot photo

Boots by Afro Chic Review...

2010-02-25T06:50:00.000-08:00

This is the only review I have received, but feel free to send in your reviews, you can post them on the Boots by Afro Chic Fan Page or email them to me at afro.chic@hotmail.com.

=============

I am repeat customer of Boots by Afro Chic.
While having always done a stellar job on designing and decorating my boots, her level of dedication and customer service surpassed even my wildest expectations this carnival.

For the past couple of years I had been wearing the same boots in which Afro Chic would work her magic on. Those boots started out brown, went to turquoise, and then to silver. I was planning to reuse the same boots for this year's carnival, since they were well broken in.

Unfortunately, there was a mishap in the delivery of the boots from the US to Trini, therefore not giving me enough time to ship a new pair of boots in time for carnival. Anxiety set in because I thought it would be too late to get new boots to Trinidad and for AC to work her magic in time. I had visions of me in black or brown non matching boots, or GASP!!!, the unforgiving white sneakers.
My anxiety was unfounded. I popped Afro Chic an email, explaining the situation, to which she replied, " No problem. Bring the boots when you come to Trinidad.".

A few days prior to my travel, I received a detailed email from AC which included a highlighted map of where to drop the boots once I reached. That is what I called customer oriented.

I dropped the boots off at the designated location on the Friday before carnival.

On Sunday night around 9pm, my boots were delivered to me. Once again... I was not disappointed. My boots went from this

to this

In a short span of two days, Afro Chic had turned my boots from a piece of coal to gold! My plain black boots were now a golden carnival diva fantasy footwear appropriate for palancing and posing on Tuesday.

Goodies such as extra gems and glitter, to condoms were also included in her delivery package.

Afro Chic does an excellent job of matching boots to costumes, and I was tickled pink to see the feathers on my boots to be an exact match to the feathers on my headpiece.

I was happy with my matching coordinated look on Tuesday, and so were my feet!

Job well done Afro Chic, and I will continue to be a repeat customer!

Did you do-it-yourself?

2010-02-10T05:21:00.000-08:00

These boots were done by two sisters in 2009 who played in Sonia Mack's Paradisus (Island People).

The sisters asked me for feedback and what I told them then was this.

"I think is a good first attempt. I like the second one, in particular the use of the male arm/leg piece. Very nice touch."

With regard to the visibilty of the print under the paint I said, " In future so you don't see the previous colour/pattern, you should spray a base coat (white is your best bet as it makes the top colour 'pop'). Then you can spray the colour of your costume.

Send pics of your do-it-yourself projects to afro.chic@hotmail.com and I'll post them on the blog and give you some feedback as well!

Boot Picks - Last Minute Boots

2010-02-08T14:50:00.001-08:00

With only 7 more days to go until we palance in the Savannah, you might still be looking for boots.

Francis Fashion is getting into the boot trend as well, and has these in silver, gold and bronze.

I tried them on and didn't find them that comfy though and the heel and sole felt a bit hard to me.

If you're interested, you can check them out. They have both the mid-calf and bootie versions and they have been flying off the shelves I heard.

Boot Pick Of The Week - Yuh Stickin'

2010-02-02T15:59:00.000-08:00

If you do not have your boots by now you REAL stickin'! What you waiting on?!

With costume collection for some bands having started this week, this is just a reminder that you can do your boots yourself.

Here are some of the tips that I covered for those of you doing it on your own.

Using Your Leg Pieces

Sand, Spray, Glitter

Spraying your Footwear

Ask Afro Chic - Your questions answered

2010-02-01T05:00:00.000-08:00

Q. I would like to add some shimmer/sparkle to my boots but I do not want caked on glitter, I just want a hint of shimmer. Do I use the glitter spray?

What do you recommend to achieve this effect?

A. I have never personally used the glitter spray on boots, but glitter spray does give a very light barely there shimmer that could work.

If you wanted to achieve that same hint of shimmer without using the glitter spray, I would suggest you use the fine glitter and not the coarse (larger) glitter. Spray your boots using the adhesive spray glue and sprinkle your glitter very lightly, shaking off any excess as you go along. Once the boot is dry you can then use a fine grade sandpaper sand off any glitter to achieve the desired effect.

Q. I have some soft suede boots that are knee high but my calves are too big...can I cut the boot myself down the back seam and add laces myself or should I take it to a shoemaker to do this for me?

A. I am actually doing this to a pair of boots at a client;s request this year. I first approached a shoemaker but he said he could not do it as he could not guarantee the job. If you find a shoemaker I would say let him do it, if not, I think once you take your time to cut and seal/sew the edges off nicely you should be good to go.

Q. Is it easy to change the colour of black suede boots with spray paint? I'd like to change them to silver.

A. It is always a bit of a challenge to go from a darker colour to a lighter colour. You can check out this Do-It-Yourself: Spraying your Footwear which gives step by step instructions.

Ask Afro Chic...

2010-01-29T04:30:00.000-08:00

From today until next week Monday 1st February, I will be leaving the floor open for your boot-related questions.

Leave your question in the comments section of this post, and I will post the answers starting from next week Tuesday.

Remember you can also join my Facebook Fan Page and get your information, updates and photos of my past and current projects.

Boot Pick of the Week - Divalicious!

2010-01-25T05:55:00.000-08:00

For the divas who can rock heels to play mas, these are for you. Available at www.amiclubwear.com, these heeled boots range in price from $24.99 to $29.99.

Boot Picks of the Week -$9.99 boots

2010-01-20T05:00:00.000-08:00

All boots featured today are only USD$9.99 from www.amiclubwear.com, perfect for those of us watching our Carnival dollars.

Do-It-Yourself: Spraying your footwear

2010-01-18T05:25:00.000-08:00

Materials:

Spray paint - you can use regular spray paint in the can.

From my experience this covers MOST materials including suede, and goes on smoothly if your footwear is vinyl or leather/leatherette.

Gloves - to protect your fingers.

If you are not using gloves, the paint comes off easily enough with some soap, water and elbow grease.

Old sheet/cloth - to protect the area you are going to spray.

I try not to use newspaper because the newsprint can come off on your fingers and footwear.

Directions:

Step 1

Tape off the areas you do not want to be sprayed, such as the sole or zip of the boot/sneaker.

Step 2

Begin with a base coat to prep the surface of your footwear.

This step is very important especially if you are attempting to change the colour of your footwear from a dark colour to a lighter colour.

Wait about 15-30 minutes or until the paint feels dry to the touch.

Step 3

Start with your next colour and use steady, overlapping strokes until the surface is covered to your liking.

If you are using two or more colours wait for the spray paint to dry between colours.

Your footwear may require one or more coats for full coverage.

Step 4

You can apply a clear coat of spray to seal/protect your colours.

Step 5

Add your embellishments: gems, braid, fringe, feathers, leg pieces etc.

Tips:

Spray your footwear during the day in natural light, this allows you to see the colour properly and any missed spots.

Before you start to spray, do a test spray on a vertical piece of board. If the paint drips it's not quite ready, so give the spraycan a few more shakes.

Remember to avoid the nozzle getting clogged, turn the spraycan upside down when you are finished to clear the nozzle.

Boot Pick of the Week - Booties

2010-01-13T06:07:00.000-08:00

Came across these ankle boots while browsing Cutesy Girl.

These range from $19.99 to $24.99 and if you use the code JAN20 you get 20% off!

Do It yourself: Using your leg pieces in 3 easy steps

2010-01-07T06:00:00.000-08:00

What you need:
1. Your boots

2. The leg pieces from your costume

3. Glue: you can use wither hot glue, uhu glue(in the yellow tube) or Magna Tac

Instructions
1. Take your leg pieces and position them how you want on the boot, taking note of the zipper location, any overlap etc.

2. Carefully apply glue to the back of the leg pieces. Depending on the tyoe of glue being used you may be required to wait for the glue to become tacky.

3. Apply the leg pieces, cutting off any overlaps etc. and you're done!

Boot Picks of The Week - Cute Sneaks

2010-01-05T06:00:00.000-08:00

Someone recently sent me an email with regard to the colour footwear for Island People's Morgandani. While browsing Carnival Kicks, I came across this sneaker which I think is perfect!

EDITED TO ADD:

By request, here are sneakers from Carnival Kicks to go with Island People's Chutney Bhaav

All followers of AC Boots receive 10% off at www.carnivalkicks.com enter coupon code "bootsac" at checkout.

Boot Picks of the Week - Fantastic Metallic

2009-12-29T10:00:00.000-08:00

If you are still in doubt about the colour boot you should get to match your costume your safest bet is to get a boot in a metallic colour.

There are lots of metallic boots out there, from silver to gold to bronze and pewter. Here are just a couple.

Silver boots work well with TRIBE's Eri

Pewter for Island People's Raja Aur Rani

Gold boots for Island People's Nakshatra

Bronze boots to complete the look of Spice's Adulis

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

2009-12-25T00:01:00.000-08:00

Be safe and have a great one!!

Boot Pick of the Week - 45% off

2009-12-22T07:28:00.001-08:00

If you're still looking for boots, my favorite website www.amiclubwear.com is having a 45% off sale until 23 December 2009. Just type in the code XMAS45OFF on checkout. I used this code to purchase two pairs of boots for myself last week and I got the boots for less than USD$8.00 each!

Here are some of my favorite Boot Picks from amiclubwear. You can simply add your leg pieces to these boots and they will be perfect for the road!

This rich cobalt almost purple colour will look great with Spice's Greece. I also really like the studs.

Lovely for Spice's Rubies of Mumbai.

Love this shade of pink for TRIBE's Habotai or Island People's Jaipur

Shubh Divali!

2009-10-17T08:53:00.000-07:00

Registration is CLOSED.

2009-10-07T17:37:00.000-07:00

Please note at this time registration for your FAB! Footwear by Afro Chic is CLOSED.

However, if you have done your footwear with me before, please send me an email at afro.chic@hotmail.com

For those of you who have already registered, you are reminded that the deadline for receipt of your downpayment and footwear is 30th November 2009.

I would like to thank those of you who completed the registration form and will be getting your FAB! Footwear by Afro Chic for Carnival 2010!

New for 2010...

2009-07-19T09:15:00.000-07:00

Well yes, it's started!

Band Launch Season is here again and I thought it would be good let my readers know what you can expect for Carnival 2010.

First off the deadline to drop-off your boots is November 30th 2009. I know this is much earlier than in previous years but this is to facilitate an earlier delivery to my clients.

For Carnival 2010 you can look forward to more Do-It-Yourself tutorials, the first of which will be Spraying Your Boots. I am also thinking of doing a Boots Workshop closer to Carnival time and would appreciate some feedback on that, let me know if you would be interested.

Most importantly please remember that you must complete a REGISTRATION FORM, the link to register is at that top right hand side of the page.

What's New?

2009-03-12T07:04:00.000-07:00

Registration
If you are interested in having your footwear customised. you must complete the registration form. The link to the form is located at the top right hand corner of the blog.

FAQs
Links to the Frequently Asked Questions are located below the link to the Registration Form. FAQs will be updated as required.
A very important FAQ is "How Do I Order My Boots?"

Please make sure and read this.

What I've Been Working On...

2009-01-22T05:36:00.000-08:00

So I know I've not done any new posts for a while...but you know how it is...between Christmas decorating and collecting boots and working on boots and feteing and going to my regular 8-4 job...I barely have time to breathe!

Here are just a few pics of what I've been working on. Please note that these are all unfinished.

Ate Logo has boots!

2008-10-01T09:54:00.001-07:00

During a visit to Long Circular Mall yesterday I ducked into Ate Logo who had their boots out! I tried on a wedge heel and found it to be very comfy!

Ate Logo's boots are $400.00 and come in all colours and varying heights.

What Colour Footwear Should I Get?

2008-09-24T09:37:00.000-07:00

One question which I get pretty often is "What Colour Footwear Should I get?"

To answer this question I will use TRIBE's Brazilian Macaw costume as my example.

The main factor or guideline, would be, to use the main colour of your costume.

In the case of Brazilian Macaw, the colour would be red. And not just any old red but a nice rich., vibrant red.

Alternatively, if your costume has a few colours in it (like Brazilian Macaw), you can choose one of those other colours which would compliment your costume.

The next option would be to just go with the colour that the costume was modelled with, in this case, bronze.

One good rule of thumb is, that if you're not at all sure, go with a nice sparkly colour like gold, silver or bronze, as these colours are present in MOST costumes out there.

I mean after all it's Carnival and Carnival is all about flash and bling and glitter!

Saucy did an excellent posts with pics of costumes and the boots that would match them. Take a look and get some ideas.

I tell people though that if you are sending your footwear to me to decorate, don't worry about the colour too much as that can be changed with spray, just make sure your footwear is comfortable and fits well!

Hope this info helps!

Reminder...

2008-08-04T05:45:00.000-07:00

Just a quick not to those of you who will be sending me e-mails on getting your customized footwear.

In the subject line of your e-mail, please put the words "Carnival Boots", "Carnival
Sneakers" or "CarnivalFootwear". This is so that your email will not be overlooked and sent to my Junk mail folder.

The following information is also required:

Your Name:
Band/section:
Footwear type (boots/sneakers/other):
Email address:
Telephone contact (mobile/home):

Also to those of you who have need sending me emails asking about the colour and material of your boots, first and foremost please ensure that your boots/sneakers are COMFORTABLE, as the colour can be changed. Once your boots are not plastic, you are more or less safe.

For those of you looking at rocking your sneakers this year, those are the easiest to spray, so have no fear about the material.

Keep checking the blog for updates and pictures of some of my designs for Carnival 2009!

FAB! Carnival Footwear has moved...

2008-05-15T08:24:00.000-07:00

You can now bookmark the site at www.bootsbyafrochic.com, but in the interim, Blogger will re-direct you to the new site. :)

Re-using your footwear...

2008-03-03T04:06:00.001-08:00

Re-using your footwear is a great idea as:
1) it saves you money
2) your footwear is already well broken in and comfy for the next Carnival.

This year, I used my boots from last year as my Monday boots and they worked very well.

If you want to re-use the same footwear you did this year ensure that you store your footwear in a nice DRY place.

If possible keep them in the box they came with and place some silica gel packets inside them. Silica absorbs moisture and is an effective drying agent.

Remember if you want to do-it-yourself, your mas boots can be sanded, sprayed and glittered to give your boot a FAB! new look for next year.

And of course if you don’t want to do-it-yourself, you can keep them safe and secure until it’s time to get them to me.

Boots for Winds of Horror...

2008-02-22T04:12:00.000-08:00

BEFORE

AFTER

On the road with Mac Farlane in Winds of Horror

My Monday Boots...

2008-02-14T10:56:00.000-08:00

These were my boots from last year.

BEFORE

AFTER

More pics...

2008-02-14T10:28:00.000-08:00

No 'Before' pic...this boot was a dark brown suede

AFTER

On the road with TRIBE in Isis Option B

This was done for my only male customer this year.
No before pics were taken, but these were plain gold traditional mas boots.

AFTER

On the road with Trini Revellers in Aztec Sun Gods

Boots for Ganawa...

2008-02-14T09:23:00.000-08:00

BEFORE

DURING

AFTER

On the road with Pulse 8 - Ganawa

More pics...

2008-02-12T05:44:00.000-08:00

BEFORE

AFTER

(boots were painted before they got to me)

AFTER

On the road in Kingfisher

Before and After pics and FAB! Footwear on the road...

2008-02-10T16:58:00.000-08:00

Sneakers for Autumn Sprite

BEFORE

AFTER

BEFORE

AFTER

On the road in TRIBE - Autumn Sprite

Sneakers for Isis Option 'B'

BEFORE

AFTER

On the road in TRIBE - Isis Option B

Got Pics?

2008-02-10T15:54:00.000-08:00

Do you have pics of yourself in costume wearing your FAB! Carnival footwear?

Please forward them to me at afro.chic@hotmail.com and let me know if you want them posted on the website.

Thank You!

2008-02-01T14:40:00.000-08:00

To those of you who ordered your customised footwear, hope you enjoy them and take pics!!

To those of you who couldn't make the deadline, hope to see you for Carnival 2K9!
February 23rd and 24th...

Still looking for boots?

2008-01-29T06:16:00.000-08:00

For those of you who are still looking for boots, remember there are lots of places in Trinidad that are selling boots this year.

Jomo on Picadilly Street

Boots by Picadilly

Boots at Ate Logo

Shirley’s on Charlotte Street

Saucy had also indicated on her blog that TRIBE has boots on sale, so you TRIBERS can also check them out when you go to collect your costume.

Remember that it will help if you purchase a pair on insoles for your boots to make them more comfortable for you!

Good luck!

Where Can I Buy Boots Online?

2008-01-19T11:33:00.000-08:00

Ami Club Wear

Cutesy Girl

Go Jane

Shiek Shoes

Shoe Ocean

Urban Original

Butterfly Bliss Sneakers...

2008-01-17T14:36:00.001-08:00

Saw these butterflies in town and had to do something with them.

Butterfly Bliss Costume

Butterfly Bliss Sneakers

My boots for De Mang...

2008-01-15T15:34:00.000-08:00

As I mentioned in my previous post I finally went, paid for and collected my boots yesterday from Shirley's.

These are the boots I bought to go with my section De Mang.

De Mang Costume

My boots

The initial plan was to spray the boots bronze, but I liked the colour as is.

I got home and started decorating them and this is just a peek of what I've done so far.

It's still a work in progrss and I'll be keeping it under wraps for now.

For those of you who asked...

2008-01-15T11:01:00.000-08:00

I received several requests via email and Facebook about the name and location of the store where I saw my boots.

I made a visit to the store this weekend and the name of the store is Shirley's.
Shirley's now has the black boot in a different material that feels/looks like nylon, as well as a few other boots in pleather.

If you are heading in a southerly direction (i.e. heading downtown) on Charlotte St, Shirley's the second store after Shopper's Freezone which is located on the corner of Charlotte and Queen Sts.

When I visited the store late last year, Shirley indicated that they were getting in some more of the new boots but the price would increase, I was pleased to note that the price has remained
the same at $300.00.

I went today to collect my boots and I am VERY happy with them and eager to get started on decorating them! I might even do so tonight!

FAB Sneakers for the road...

2008-01-10T13:43:00.000-08:00

Still not totally convinced you could do boots?

This sneaker design was done with those of you in mind who may, for one reason or the other, not be able to wear a pair of boots on the road.

The sneaker used is my old Nike Shox.

Dragon Lizard costume

Dragon Lizard Sneaker

Black Widow Boot...

2008-01-02T19:08:00.001-08:00

I did this boot a while ago for my aunt who is playing in Black Widow, but never posted the pics.

Black Widow costume

Front/side view

Back view

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

2007-12-24T08:36:00.000-08:00

To all of you from all of me!

HAVE A FAB! CHRISTMAS!!!

Boots by Piccadilly...

2007-12-19T07:07:00.000-08:00

So on Monday while looking for a pair of black shoes for work (finally bought a pair today) I came across these slouch boots by Piccadilly.

Piccadilly is well known for their comfortable work shoes as some of you may know.

The boots are $395 and come in white gold, gold, bronze and silver grey/black, from size 6 to 10.

They are available at Shoe Keepers, upstairs Excellent City Centre (downtown) which, if you're going up the escalator in Excellent City Centre, it's the shoe store on the left facing you.

I actually tried on a side of one of the boots and it was very soft and felt comfortable.

There is a small zip on the side of the boot near the bottom (seen in the second pic), which I initially thought was a little pouch for money, but it isn't. I just seems to be a decorative feature.

I had a mental laugh when the sales clerk told me, "Those are for Carnival you know!"
Yes dear, I know. LOL.

Contact info for Shoe Keepers:
Shop#26
Excellent city Centre
60 Independence Square
Tel: (868)623-1177

Shop#6
Talia's Courtyard
Mulchan Seuchan Road
Chaguanas
(868) 671-5626

Boots at Ate Logo...

2007-12-18T10:07:00.000-08:00

While looking for a pair of black work shoes today, I drifted into Ate Logo on Frederick Street only to be greeted by a gold slouch boot.

Ate Logo boots are a few inches below the knee and also offer an option that is shorter than that.

They come in bronze and various shades of gold.

There were also printed boots in the showcase, which the sales clerk indicated were the same price, but she didn't seem too sure.

Although I did not try on any of them, the inside of the boots were soft to the tough.

The cost is $450 less 20%.

This is a good option for those of you in Trinidad who are still looking for boots.

I got my boots!!

2007-11-27T17:07:00.000-08:00

I was all prepared to use the pair of boots that I used this year, as I already broke them in.

At the same time, I was still looking online to see if I found a pair of boots that spoke to me, and that way I could have two pairs of boots to use: my boots from this year for Monday and my new pair for Tuesday.

Either way I would have been happy, however the online shopping wasn't going too great as I couldn't get the size I wanted, even if I saw a boot that I really like.

Lo and behold, while minding my own business today, walking down Charlotte Street, I hear, "Psst...Afro Chic..."

I look around and there, on a shelf just inside the door of a store, is a side of black suede boots!

I SWEAR the boots called my name!

So I go into the store and ask to try the boot on.

The boot was a size 7 1/2 and while it was a beautiful fit and hugged my calves to perfection, I still want to get it a half size bigger to accommodate my gel insole.

They didn't have my size, but the owner of the store said they were expecting some more of the boots next week, and she would hold the pair of boots for me.

In the meantime, this is a pic I took with my camera phone.

The boots cost $300 and come in black, moss green and a caramel colour.

For those of you in England...

2007-11-01T04:27:00.000-07:00

Through a comment left on Saucy’s blog earlier this year, I found a guy who does boots for both the Trinidad and England market.

I spoke with Bootsman, Amdy earlier this week who is located at #13 Mc Donald Street, Woodbrook and he told me that his boots start at TT$150.00.

For those of you who reside in England, he requires your ENGLISH foot measurements as well as, and most important, your CALF measurement.

This measurement should be taken at the biggest part of your calf.

I did pass by, but Amdy wasn't home. So a follow up visit to have a look at the boots is in the books for next week.

For those of you wondering where Mc Donald Street is these are the directions:

Travel along Wrightson Road until you reach Colville Street (Powergen corner) and turn right at the traffic light.

Mc Donald Street is the first street on the left BUT it's a NO ENTRY.

You have to take the next left at Methuen Street, then the first left again onto French Street, and one more first left onto Mc. Donald Street.

There are a few businesses on Mc Donald Street, but look for Amdy's sign outside that says "Boots. Press Bell"...yuh cyar miss it.

Amdy’s contact info:
#13 Mc Donald Street, Woodbrook
624-5328
473-2606
625-2651

Blast from the Past...

2007-10-29T05:24:00.000-07:00

Check out the boots on Mummy, Aunty and Daddy Chic.

Back then, the boots had no heel and were flat on the ground.

And get this...It was all part of your costume package...FREE boots!

They would measure your feet at the mas camp, and the boots were custom fit/made for you.

For those of you in Canada...

2007-10-26T06:31:00.000-07:00

I was checking out Karabana’s blog recently and saw that she had a link to a bootsman in Canada.

I called the number she provided and spoke with the Bootsman, Anton.
He said that he makes the boots in leather or vinyl, and the cost starts at $130 and $60 respectively. The price depends on the height of the boot.

He does not usually decorate them, but did say that he recently finished a pair of leather boots for someone in Silver Mist.

I’m really liking the thigh high boots seen here. Hmmm...

Here’s his contact info for those of you in Canada, and you can check Karabana’s blog for more pics of the boots he did this year.

The Bootsman
62 Trudeau Drive, Bowmanville Ontario Canada L1C 4K3
Call Anton at 416-524-1782 (mobile)
905-623-4396 (home)
905-428-5847 (daytime)
Email - anton.gabriel@sympatico.ca

Pic from Karabana's blog

Do It Yourself: Sand, Spray, Glitter

2007-10-16T04:42:00.000-07:00

So you have your boots from last year that were absolutely FAB! and are already well broken in.
And you want to use them this year, but you are playing in gold for Carnival 2008 and last year you played in silver.

So what do you do?
Spend money on a new pair of boots that have to be broken in ALL over again?
No.

In 3 easy steps you can have the start of a gorgeous boot that you can use on the road again.

Tools needed
sandpaper
spray paint in a colour of your choice
spray adhesive
glitter in a colour to match your costume
your boots (of course)
newspaper - to cover your work area

Step 1 - Sand the boot

Using a low grade sandpaper, sand your boot and remove all glitter, hardened glue, gunk and grime.

Note: You will not be able to remove all traces of the glitter, but you may be able to see the original boot colour in parts of the boot.

Step 2 - Spray the boot

Using a tin of spray paint as your base colour, you spray the boot evenly, from the top and move down in overlapping pattern. Allow to dry.

Note: The texture of the boot will appear rough .

Step 3 - Add glitter

Using your spray adhesive spray, again spray the boot evenly, there should be a slight change in the colour of the boot. When you finish spraying the adhesive, add glitter LIBERALLY over the entire boot. Allow to dry.

And there you have it, your boots for 2008!

Good to go!

More pics from different angles...

2007-10-09T06:41:00.000-07:00

Silver Mist II

Silver Mist I

Boots, boots boots and more boots...

2007-10-09T06:04:00.000-07:00

So the first set of boot prototypes have been completed…finally!

What actually took so long was the Dragon Lizard boot, which I eventually shelved...for now.

I was aiming to get the same effect on the costume with the iridescent yellow background and the black stripes across the front of the boot.

While I got the look of the background for the boot, but it was the black stripes that gave me the problem. I tried it once using black glitter, which looked great from far but up close, the black glitter ‘bled’ onto the yellow base colour of the boot giving it a not so clean look.

I sanded and re-sprayed and re-glittered (yes, you can sand boots…more on that later) the boot to the base colour and attempted to use braid to get the striped effect. While that was a cleaner look it still didn’t come out the way I had it pictured in my mind.

So just for now until I can think up an alternative, the Dragon Lizard boot is on hold.

My next challenge was the Zebra boot.
I had two templates to use to get the effect of the zebra stripes, the one I used is a bit big in proportion to the stripe on the actual costume. For future boots, I will be using a smaller template.

Also, instead of using black glitter for the stripes which gave me the same problem as Dragon Lizard with the ‘bleeding’, I will be using the silver and black braid which was used around the black on the Zebra boot. This will give it a much cleaner look.

So after I scrapped the Dragon Lizard boot, I prepared to do the Silver Mist boot.

Now I had at least three ideas for Silver Mist in my head.

One was the simple one (Silver Mist I) seen here. The next was what I call the ‘frontline’ boot, and one that was in between, which is the one (Silver Mist II) seen here.

The frontline boot that still exists in my head will include the ‘predator’ effect of the headpiece using similar foam type pieces and braid attached to the back and sides of the boot.

The challenge with that right now is getting the foam to stay securely attached to the boot, so that pieces won’t be falling off in the road come Carnival Monday and Tuesday.

I have some other ideas for boots still in my head…one for Sun Goddess and another for Water Nymph. But those will have to be done sometime after my exams (which I still haven’t started studying for!) in November.

I will be updating the blog with some boot tips, including do it yourself tips, so stay tuned and keep the feedback coming.

Feel free to contact me with any boot related questions that you may have at afro.chic@hotmail.com

Mission Accomplished!

2007-10-08T15:23:00.000-07:00

Boots for Zebra

Boots for Silver Mist

Silver Mist I
Silver Mist II

Boot Tip #1

2007-10-02T08:11:00.000-07:00

So following this email, I decided to do a post to address this person's concerns.

I like the boots but is it functional? Your foot won't hurt and smell stink after 2 hrs jumping up in that?

To ensure all day comfort on the roads with your boots it is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED that you use a pair of insoles.

For Carnival 2007, I used the insole from my Nike Shox.
You can also choose to purchase a pair of insoles from Dr. Scholls

Dr. Scholls has wide variety of insoles and the one I would suggest is the Dr. Scholls For Her Comfort Insoles which, according to the website, provides "discreet cushioning uniquely designed to fit closed-style women's shoes such as pumps, boots, and loafers."

The additional comfort of the insoles in your boots is only one step however, it is also a good idea to purchase your boots and break them in a bit to get your feet accustomed.

As for the "foot smelling stink" issue, I think that all depends on the person and I'm sure that if your feet smell, that you take the appropriate measures to address that.

But have no fear, Dr. Scholls has something to for those smelly feet in the form of deodorant powder and deodorant spray.
The deodorant spray is said to control odor immediately and last all day.
So when you take your lunch break on Carnival Tuesday, you can take your boots off without offending anyone.

More boot tips to come so stay tuned...

Looking for boots?

2007-10-02T06:25:00.000-07:00

So I’ve been getting quite a few emails from persons who do not reside in Trinidad asking where they can source a pair of boots in the US/online.

I know that this site for marching boots. In looking at the description, this boot looks like it would be very comfortable on the road, especially when you consider that the people who use these types of boots march for miles…sounds perfect for the chipping down the road.

"Throughout the season we have many performances and put many marching miles on our DINKLES "Holly" boots. They have held up very well. The boots are fabulous!"

Cheri Kitch
Head Majorette
Indiana University of Pennsylvania

DINKLES boots not only look good, they feel good. They are made with comfort in mind featuring extra padding in the heel area and shafts to accommodate a variety of calves.

Holly $35.95
A knee high fashion boot made with fit and function in mind. The shaft is made with expandable urethayne and gore to fit most calf sizes. The sole is made of rubber to prevent slips and the white colored sole eliminates black marks when the boots touch.
• Soft and supple easy maintenance upper.
• Slip resistant soles and heels made of thermal rubber soling, no more black scrape marks.
• Heel is proper height and can accept cleats.
• Insole has extra cushion in the heel to cushion your step.

Stacie $29.95
A majorette boot with comfort and style. The Stacie has extra padding in the heel where you need it and the shaft is lined with a non-pilling fur for comfort. The style is second to none with our DINKLES rubber white sole for great traction and no black marks.
• Slip-resistant (TPR) Rubber Soles to prevent slips and falls.
• Soft vinyl upper just wipes clean.
• Heel is proper height and can accept cleats.
• Non-marking soles will not make ugly black scrape marks.
• Non-pilling inside collar material.
• Extra cushion in heel area for miles of comfortable marching.

So for those of you who are still looking for your boots you can check Dinkles.

Boots - Sneak Peek

2007-10-01T04:09:00.000-07:00

Please keep in mind that this is not the finished product, but just a preview of the boots as they are still a work in progress.

These were designed with Zebra and Dragon Lizard costumes in mind.

I will be changing the template for the Zebra as I find the pattern is a bit big in proportion to the boot.

How Do I Order My Custom Footwear?

2007-08-16T18:15:00.000-07:00

If you are interested in having your footwear customised please click on the link to the Registration Form at the top right hand side of the page and enter your information.

Down Payment
Please note that a down payment is required as follows:

Down payment for boots: $150.00 (USD$25.00)
Down payment for sneakers: $120.00 (USD$20.00)

Shipping footwear to Trinidad

If you live overseas there are two (2) options of getting your footwear to me:

1. Sending them with a friend or family member

A person who will be coming to Trinidad and can drop the footwear off for me any time before the deadline.

2. Via FEDEX/UPS/DHL

With this method the footwear is delivered directly to me, but the cost for sending them are borne by the sender.

Please note that if your footwear is shipped via US Priority Mail (or anything similar), you pay a cost to send them, and I also have to pay to collect them when they get to Trinidad. The costs for same will be borne by the sender.

If you live in Trinidad

Once you fill out the registration form and your information is received, an email will be sent to make/confirm arrangements for the collection/drop-off of your footwear.

N.B. All footwear being dropped off, should be labeled with your name, contact number, band/section.

Deadline for Collection/Drop-off

Each year there is a deadline by which I must receive your footwear. The deadline is usually by the end of the year preceding the next Carnival. (i.e. the deadline for Carnival 2009 was December 2008).

Keep checking the website for the date as it may change depending on how early/late Carnival falls.

Other Carnivals

If you are interested in having your footwear customised for a Carnival outside of Trinidad and Tobago, please send me your information via email along with a picture of your costume.

If you have any further questions, you can always drop me a line at afro.chic@hotmail.com.

About carnivalboots.blogspot.com

2007-08-10T17:58:00.001-07:00

So Saucy buss de tape on meh lil side blog here. LOL. (Thanks Saucy!)

The idea behind the blog, is for those masqueraders who wish to add that little something extra to their costume on Carnival Monday and Tuesday, to do so with a pair of custom designed mas boots.

The boots are the handmade silver or gold mas boots that I've seen my parents and aunts playing mas in for so many years.

The boots are made extra comfy by simply adding an inner sole from a sneaker or purchasing a Dr. Scholls gel insert.

One thing to note though, you need to place your orders EARLY.
The earlier the better.

Remember Carnival is February 4th and 5th next year!

Coming soon...C2K8

2007-06-20T16:49:00.000-07:00

My first pair of boots that I did for Carnival 2007.