A letter from a reader

The one pair of boots I reach for when I want to feel comfortable, confident, and effortlessly put-together.

These retro-inspired brown ankle boots combine classic lace-up detailing, a practical side zipper, and distinctive decorative accents. They pair beautifully with jeans, dresses, and skirts, making them an easy choice for everyday outfits. They're the pair I reach for when I want to look polished without overthinking what I wear.

Linda Mitchell
By Linda Mitchell · Boston, MA
October 2026 · 5 min read
Marilyn: retro-inspired ankle boots in brown with lace-up detailing and a practical side zipper.

I’m Linda, 63, and I live in Boston. Most days, I’m running errands, meeting friends for coffee, or taking care of things around the house. I like looking put together, but lately, finding boots that fit naturally into my everyday life hasn’t been so simple.

I found myself choosing between casual shoes that didn’t quite give me the look I wanted and dressier boots that felt like too much effort for an ordinary day. I wanted something versatile enough to wear while going about my day, but stylish enough to make even a simple outfit feel a little more polished. I was getting tired of feeling like I had to choose between practicality and style.

I came across the Marilyn boots while browsing online, and their retro-inspired design immediately caught my eye. I loved the brown color, lace-up detailing, and the practical side zipper. They looked like the kind of boots I could easily pair with my favorite jeans, a cozy sweater, or a simple dress. I liked the idea of having one versatile pair that could bring an outfit together without making getting dressed feel complicated.

1EFFORTLESS STYLE IN EVERY STEP

When I first saw the Marilyn boots, I loved their rich brown color and distinctive retro design. The lace-up detailing, decorative crochet panels, and side zipper give them a unique look that feels easy to style with just about anything. I can picture wearing them with my favorite jeans, a cozy sweater, or a simple dress. What I love most is how the layered design adds character to an outfit without feeling overly dressy. They have that relaxed, everyday style I was searching for, while still making me feel polished whenever I step out.

2A CLASSIC ROUNDED TOE

I love the rounded toe on the Marilyn boots. It gives them a classic, relaxed look that pairs beautifully with their retro-inspired design. They’re easy to style with jeans, sweaters, or a casual dress, making them a versatile choice for everyday outfits. I also love how the lace-up detailing and decorative crochet panels add a little extra character without making them feel too dressy.

3On and off in seconds

The Marilyn boots combine classic lace-up detailing with a practical side zipper, making them easy to put on and take off. No struggling with complicated fastenings or spending extra time getting ready. Simply adjust the laces for your preferred fit, zip them up, and you're ready to head out the door.

4A steady, low stacked heel

The heel is about 2 inches (5.1 cm) with a wide base, so your weight stays centered and the boot feels stable underfoot. Comfortable for walking, errands and long afternoons out.

5A shape that stays neat

The Marilyn boots have a distinctive layered design that gives them a stylish, retro-inspired look. They pair just as easily with jeans as they do with a dress, making them a versatile choice for everyday wear.

6Sizes US 6.5 to 10

Marilyn comes in US sizes 6.5 to 10, true to size with a little extra room across the toe. Not sure? Check the size chart, and if it is not right you have 30 days to ask for your money back.

Marilyn, against your everyday sneakers

Your everyday sneakersMarilyn
The look Casual and sporty Retro-inspired brown design
Getting dressed Laces to tie Easy pull-on design
The upper Mesh or canvas Layered panels with crochet detailing
The heel Flat Low stacked block heel
With a dress Rarely works Relaxed and effortlessly stylish
Your everyday sneakers
  • Casual and sporty
  • Laces to tie
  • Mesh or canvas
  • Flat
  • Rarely works
Marilyn
  • Retro-inspired brown design
  • Easy pull-on design
  • Layered panels with crochet detailing
  • Low stacked block heel
  • Relaxed and effortlessly stylish

Why it's on sale right now

When I came across Marilyn, I also read about the Halloway family's Revival Sale. After 19 years of pouring their hearts into this boutique, rising costs have made it harder for them to keep their dream alive. The sale is their way of fighting to keep the boutique they’ve built with so much love going. During the Revival Sale, the Marilyn boots are available for $69.95, with free shipping within the U.S.

Marilyn | Retro Lace-Up Ankle Boots with Side Zipper

$69.95
Revival Sale
  • Rich brown finish with distinctive retro-inspired detailing
  • Lace-up front with decorative crochet side panels
  • Practical side zipper for easy on and off
  • Low stacked heel for a classic, everyday look
  • Free U.S. shipping · 30-day money-back guarantee
Check if your size is available →

Marilyn | Retro Lace-Up Ankle Boots with Side Zipper · $69.95 · Revival Sale price

Here’s What My Friends Are Saying About Marilyn”

★★★★★ “I absolutely love my Marilyn boots! They look beautiful with my favorite jeans, and I love how the rich brown color, lace-up details, and unique crochet panels add a little something special to my everyday outfits.” Susan W. — Newton, Massachusetts
★★★★★ “I was looking for a pair of boots that weren't too flashy, and these are just perfect. The color is gorgeous, and I find myself reaching for them all the time!” Linda M. — Brookline, Massachusetts
★★★★★ “I couldn't be happier with how my Marilyn boots look! The little heel is just lovely, and they have that timeless style I've always loved.” Barbara H. — Cambridge, Massachusetts
★★★★☆ “I bought these boots on a whim, and I'm so glad I did! They go beautifully with almost everything in my closet. Such a lovely addition to my wardrobe!” Diane R. — Wellesley, Massachusetts
★★★★★ “What I love most about my Marilyn boots is how effortlessly stylish they look. Even when I'm just wearing jeans and a sweater, I feel so put together!” Patricia S. — Lexington, Massachusetts
★★★★☆ “I've always been picky about my boots, but Marilyn really caught my eye. They're feminine, classic, and exactly the kind of boots I love wearing!” Carol B. — Needham, Massachusetts

Looking back, I’m glad I found a pair of boots that fit so naturally into my everyday wardrobe. I love being able to look put together without overthinking what to wear. I’d recommend Marilyn to any woman looking for a classic, versatile style. And with the Revival Sale happening now, it might be a lovely time to give them a try.

— Linda Mitchell, 63 · Boston, MA

See Marilyn — $69.95 →

This is a personal account from a Halloway Family customer. Linda did not receive payment, a discount, or a free pair in exchange for sharing her experience.