A month before the Royal Wedding, Kate undertook her first official engagement with Prince William, near their home in Anglesey, North Wales. She helped William christen a new lifeboat for the Trearddur Bay Lifeboat Station. For this important engagement she wore a pair of Aquatalia Rouge boots in brown suede.
About the Aquatalia Rouge boots –
The cute ankle boots feature a classic silhouette, a three and a quarter inch heel, a three quarter inch platform and strap/buckle detailing. They’re fully insulated with a plaid fabric lining. The shoe upper is made from waterproof suede, making them perfect for autumn and winter weather (and spring weather for those in the UK!) They also have a full inside zipper and rubber outsoles. They’re made in Italy.
The Rouge boots are both stylish and functional.
The original Aquatalia Rouge boots came in leather and suede fabrics in a number of colours (see patent black leather, below). As you can see in the picture above, Kate opted for the brown suede style.
Zappos, who sold the boots back in 2011, were pretty excited Kate wore them. Here’s what they wrote at the time –
“Future Queen of England, Kate Middleton, was seen at her first official royal duty sporting a hot pair of the ravishing Rouge ankle boots from Aquatalia by Marvin K. …. The slightly pointed toe, accent strap and breathable microfiber lining are fitting for a future queen.”
Hang on… aren’t the boots called the “Royal”?
Due to their popularity, once sold out, the boots were reissued exclusively to American department store Nordstrom. They renamed the boots “Royal.”
Here’s how Nordstrom described the boots –
Silvertone hardware details the side of a weatherproof bootie fashioned with an elastic inset at the side for an easier fit. The slip-resistant rubber sole offers excellent wet-weather traction, while the soft microfiber lining keeps feet dry.
What about the name Ruby Dry?
In the UK, Russell and Bromley sell the Aquatalia boots under the name ‘Ruby Dry.’ They sell the boots in FIFTEEN different styles. Here’s a small selection from the site –
Where to buy the Aquatalia Rouge boots:
Sadly, the Aquatalia Rogue and Royal boots are both sold out. If you must own the exact same style, check out eBay. There are normally a few pairs listed on the site.
Looking for something similar?
Can’t find your size on eBay? You may be pleased to learn that Aquatalia do sell very similar style ankle boots today. There are a couple of options to choose from. First, there’s the Rochelle style:
The shoe comes in four different colours, ‘antracite’ (pictured above), black, black suede and black patent.
You can find the Rochelle booties at:
- Aquatalia – $495
- Zappos – $495
- Bloomingdales – $495
- Nordstrom – $495
- Jildor – $495
- Lord & Taylor – $495
Second, the Dana style. Saks Off 5th stock them in black. They’re currently reduced by 53%. A great option:
Alternatively, a Canadian company called Blondo make a very similar style boot. It’s not identical, but for the price, it’s a great option. It’s made from suede, features a buckle and a faux fur lining. Pictured below at Nordstrom for $184.95 USD.
The Blondo boot is also available at Zappos.com for $195 and Shoebuy.com for $194.95.
Kate Middleton wearing Aquatalia boots:
Kate owns two pairs of Aquatalia boots, the Rouge (pictured above) and the Rhumba. You can click here to learn more about the Rhumba boots.
Please note: All prices and information on this page was correct at the time of publishing but subject to change.
