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It’s only been 10 or 20 years, but it’s safe to say that grunge is back. It’s not, however, exactly how you remember it. Instead, it’s gone in one of two directions—slightly softer and feminine, as in Patrick Robinson’s fall ’08 collection for the Gap, or rough and tumble with moto influences in the form of buckles and zippers. Here, a look at some of the season’s best neo-grunge looks.

Varden Flap over lace boot by Dr. Martens AirWair

Price:

Retails for $140

Grunge just wouldn’t be the same without a pair of Dr. Martens. The iconic lug outsole and distinctive lace-up are known the world over. For fall ’08 Doc goes biker, adding some serious hardware in the form of leather buckles and flaps.

83-0788 by Beta Shoes

Price:

Retails for $295

For your customers who want to go grunge, but do it with modern flair, this fire engine red boot from Beta Shoes is sure to do the trick. From its exaggerated black laces to its bright crimson stitches, this grunge-inspired boot is one-of-a-kind.

Travis by Cordani

Price:

Retails for $451

Women with more traditional tastes will be drawn to this spectator-trimmed boot from Cordani. Even with a heavy dose of menswear tailoring from the rugged laces to the wingtip design, the Travis maintains its femininity with its sophisticated silhouette and rich leather.

So Awesome by Groove

Price:

Retails for $54.95

Bright silver leather shines on this lace-up boot from Groove. The So Awesome is a perfect complement to the season’s grunge-inspired plaids with its neutral metallic palette.

Take A Trip by London Underground

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Retails for $130

London Underground designer Paul Kaufman is a punk rocker at heart (he introduced America to Doc Martens with his wholesale brand Na Na) which is why you’ll see plenty of punk rock and grunge influences in his designs. Take A Trip is no exception, with its specially treated leather, rugged laces, tough outsole and standout zipper detail.

Vito by Mike&Chris

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Retails for $588

Supple black leather is the perfect canvas for this rugged yet chic boot from Mike&Chris. Like its popular leather motorcycle hoodies, this boot embodies just the right balance of masculine and feminine.

Rockband by Sugar

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Retails for $62.99

Sugar has fun with its wedge-soled lace-up boots, topping them off in eye-catching leopard prints. Traditionalists will favor the classic tint, while risk-takers will opt for bright violet. The rubber wedge sole adds a feminine touch and just enough height.

Waterville by Timberland

Price:

Retails for $100

Rugged boot enthusiasts will appreciate the Waterville by Timberland. Its waterproof leather and construction makes it ideal for long treks, whether they’re taken in the urban jungle or the great outdoors. An internal steel shank adds support, while the rubber lug outsole ensures a steady grip on any surface.

Rally by Aquatalia by Marvin K.

Price:

Retails for $395

Aquatalia designer Marvin Krasnow is known for his sleek leather boots, and his design experience shows in the Rally. Soft asphalt-colored suede toughens up when it’s paired with metal-edged buckles and a classic lug outsole.

Bonchinchetta by Triple 5 Soul

Price:

Retails for $130

Grunge goes futuristic in this hybrid lace-up boot/hi-top sneaker from Triple 5 Soul. Gleaming strips of pewter leather shine for a look that won’t get lost in the crowd.

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