New York - February 21, 2005

Just My Mukluk

Malu Legwarmers

Shoes, jeans, underpants. A few wrong chinks in the code and you get clunky platforms, peg-legs, and granny pants. Tweak the DNA and it’s genetic perfection: kitten heels, boot-cuts, boy shorts.

Oh, what a little mutation can do.

Furry boots gone wrong? Uggs. Furry boots gone genius? Malu leg warmers.

Versatile and convertible, they’re not really boots at all — just a clever variation. Faux fur on the outside, warm, comfy lining on the inside — they’re just the thing for it’s-winter-no-it’s-spring weather. They come in mottled chocolate brown and lash to the leg with metallic or suede laces, transforming any kicks — heels, sneaks, or boots — into cozy, attention-grabbing footwear.

Devotees love how they add the perfect amount of weight to the lower legs, visually whittling the thighs and behind into sliminy-cricket form. And, unlike boots, the leg warmers easily cover boot-cut jeans — no tuck-in or roll-up required.

At a mere $60, you get all the Eskimo-boot oui with none of the financial ouch.

See? A small change can make all the difference.

Available at Catbird, 390 Metropolitan Avenue, between Marcy Avenue and Havemeyer Street (718-388-7688 or catbirdnyc.com)