This has been the year of discovering your personal style. Despite the ever-changing trend cycle, people are relying on their interests, individuality, and hobbies to dictate how they dress every day. Don't get me wrong, WWW editors love a good trend (we're looking at you, lace, suede, and plaid). But personal style is about finding ways to seamlessly incorporate these trends into your wardrobe without mimicking what you see IRL, online, or on the runways. That's where Dr. Martens comes in. I don't know about you, but I can't get on the subway, go for a walk, or show up at an event in NYC without spotting a pair of Docs. This British brand has dominated the footwear space for over six decades, championing unique style and redefining the art of comfort.
This fall, the brand's boot lineup includes the Zebzag Laceless ($150) and Zebzag Rigger ($150) boots, and while they're largely inspired by the 1460 boots, they take us on a new path with a pull-on style that maintains the look of a lace-up. Oh, and I can't forget the cushioned sole, a revolutionary feature for city dwellers. Perfectly merging comfort and confidence, it's the kind of boot that you make room for on an overflowing shoe rack. My fellow WWW editor, Anna LaPlaca, and stylist, editor, and founder of Beverly 1975, Beverly Nguyen, added these boots to their fall rotation—and I've been taking notes. I chatted with both of them about all things career, risk and reward, personal hobbies, and so much more. If you want some outfit inspo and advice on how to step out of your comfort zone in style, just keep scrolling.
Anna's Career Journey
"I have been an editor onBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing 's fashion team for over eight years now (as crazy as that is to say!). Time flies when you're having fun, right? I was fortunate enough to find a path I absolutely love early on in my career, so while I haven't necessarily experienced any major pivots, I've grown my role over the last two years with the launch of WWW's travel vertical. It's allowed me to try a style of writing that I haven't always had the opportunity to strengthen."
How Anna Steps Out of Her Comfort Zone
"I picked up my first film camera, a hand-me-down from my older brother, when I was in high school, and quickly became obsessed with all things analog photography. Once I got to college, I enrolled in classes at UCLA's art school on top of my regular coursework and spent my free time learning how to develop and make prints in the darkroom. It was around that time that I also went through a big street photography phase. I was interested in emulating the work of iconic photographers who captured the most striking images of life in New York. Surprise: That meant going up to strangers to ask for their photo, something that certainly pushed me out of my comfort zone, but it was well worth it because those are now some of my most beloved photos."
Anna's Personal Styling Tips
"My style is minimal, tailored, and clean. I rely heavily on wardrobe classics like button-down shirts, trousers, and trench coats as my outfit bases, and then accessorize with one or two standout pieces. This is exactly the kind of professional and chic yet comfortable outfit you'll catch me wearing when I'm running around the city between press appointments, meetings, and the office. I've never gone wrong with tailored staples like a striped button-down shirt and a sweeping trench coat—they're two pieces that always make me feel put-together. They're also the perfect match for my Dr. Martens ankle boots, a style I know I can log a high step count in without even batting an eye."
Anna's Advice for Trying Something New
"It's cliché but true: You have to fake it until you make it. My best advice for stepping out of your comfort zone is to act as if you already have the thing you want, even when the imposter syndrome is raging."
Anna's Outfit Breakdown
"I lived in Bermuda shorts all summer long, so it only feels right to extend their shelf life by wearing them with my Zebzag boots and a chunky knit sweater into the cooler season. To balance the thick sole of the boots and oversize vibe of the shorts, I paired them with a sculpted cardigan that features a stunning hourglass shape. I love this look because it's undeniably cozy and chill but still polished. It's perfect for a stroll through the farmers' market followed by a coffee and pastry run—my Sunday morning tradition."
Anna's Relationship Status With Dr. Martens Boots
"I've been a Dr. Martens girl for over a decade. From my first pair of patent-leather Oxfords to platform combat boots and even sandals, Dr. Martens' pure durability and unmatched comfort are what keep me coming back. This fall, I'm reaching for my suede ankle boots the most—I love how forward the suede finish is. They're deceivingly comfortable!"
Beverly's Career Approach
"I've never viewed my career title as a multi-hyphenate, but I am lucky to enjoy having my hands in many different avenues of the fashion and design industries. I've always been really clear about my interest in working with creatives, uplifting brands, and giving my time to connecting genuinely with my community. My titles have evolved the more that people around me evolve. I step out of my comfort zone every day, and that's a beautiful choice."
How Beverly Steps Out of Her Comfort Zone
"I'm not afraid of taking risks and having things fall apart in order to come together. We're all just trying to figure it out, and I prioritize making space for those around me at BEVERLY 1975—the store is full of different archetypes, and I'm grateful for the abundance! My advice for anyone trying to step out of their comfort zone is to be your own champion and take it one step at a time. Life is precious and too short."
Beverly's Fall Styling Tips
"I love dressing for myself to lift my confidence and energy. The Dr. Martens Zebzag boots in suede for the fall/winter are what I'll reach for in the mornings—easily slipping the boots on and off, being able to comfortably run around the city in them. I am constantly doing different things in one day. That's what I love about my life, and for styling, I love for my wardrobe to allow me to be in any space and feel confident. I'm wearing a suede dress accessorized with metal and leather belts and the Zebzag boots in black leather. This is definitely a classic outfit for me to host an event, and go to dinner in the neighborhood after."
Beverly's Outfit Breakdown
"I chose to wear the Dr. Martens Zebzag boots in brown suede with a…plaid skirt, a unique drape, a simple cotton layered tee, and a silk bomber jacket. It's definitely a run around town and spend the day at the shop [type of] look. I love how comfortable the platform suede boots are for running around the city."
Beverly's Relationship Status with Dr. Martens Boots
"I've been wearing Dr. Martens since I moved away from my childhood home in Orange County. It's my go-to fall shoe because it's durable, reliable, blends in well with my clothes, and works just as hard as I do."
