Seen as the Levi’s of footwear, Frye Boots' rustic, well-engineered mud slingers are adored by travelers, explorers, nature-lovers and urban style mavens alike. The distinctly all american brand, nurtured by artisans since the 1860s, has long established itself in the bustling urban centers of New York, San Francisco and Nashville — but had yet to win over some of the more challenging markets of Boston and Washington D.C.

We sought out Chicago-based style blogger Rachel-Marie Iwanyszyn of Jag Lever, a fan of the brand since her college days and a lover for all things nature, to champion the benefits of Frye in these new markets, as well as educate them with styling ideas just in time for the holidays (including him & her gift guides). We also staffed both of their store openings with fashion influencers to enlighten and assist visitors with the styling of a long-lasting, durable and classic boot, rich with heritage.