Semi-Dress

As one of White's heritage models developed during the company's prolific period of innovation in the 1920s and 1930s, the Semi-Dress represents the adaptation of logger boot construction techniques for urban and semi-industrial applications. The boot exemplifies the craftsmanship standards that have defined White's manufacturing since 1853, incorporating more than 25 hand-performed stages in its construction process.

The Semi-Dress was developed during White's most prolific period in the late 1920s and 1930s, alongside other significant models including the Lineman, Sportsman, Summer Logger, Packer, Oxford, and Cruiser. This era of expansion was spearheaded by Otto White, who introduced the Arch-Ease trademark in 1926, establishing the foundation for White's custom-fit philosophy that would define the company's approach to bootmaking.

Originally created for store clerks and assembly workers, the Semi-Dress addressed the need for durable yet refined footwear during the challenging economic conditions of the Depression era. The boot was designed to withstand "week-in week-out wear without breaking down," reflecting the demanding work conditions of the 1930s while providing a more polished appearance than traditional logger boots.

The Semi-Dress employs White's traditional handsewn stitchdown construction, a process involving more than 25 unique stages performed by hand. This construction method creates a durable, water-resistant seam through hand-welting, where skilled bootmakers use an awl and thread to stitch the vamp directly into the insole at three stitches per inch.

The boot features four rows of lock stitching for enhanced durability, with a reinforced toe box designed to withstand industrial use. The construction is fully rebuildable, allowing for complete restoration when needed, with all components except the quarter replaceable through White's repair services. This rebuildable design ensures longevity that can extend the boot's useful life for decades with proper maintenance.

Built on White's 55 Arch-Ease™ last, the Semi-Dress provides medium arch support optimized for all-day comfort. The boot features a 5-inch full-grain water-resistant leather upper paired with a half composition sole and logger heel configuration. The leather midsole incorporates a shank for structural support and custom fit development over time.

The current production model (2332HC) retails for $740.00 and is available in multiple leather options including Brown Dress, British Tan Chromexcel, Brown Chromexcel, Natural Chromexcel, Cinnamon Waxed Flesh, and Black Chromexcel. As a made-to-order product, the Semi-Dress typically requires 14-16 weeks for completion, reflecting the extensive hand-crafting process involved in each pair.

White's boots typically run large, and most customers should order a half-size down from their standard shoe size. The 55 Arch-Ease™ last provides a generous fit without excessive roominess, featuring an elegantly rounded toe box with an accommodating forefoot combined with a moderate profile that suits a wide range of foot shapes.

The boot incorporates a reinforced toe box and is designed to shape to the wearer's foot over time, becoming increasingly comfortable through the break-in period. The Semi-Dress construction allows the all-leather arch support to conform to individual foot characteristics, providing personalized support that develops through regular wear.

"White's Original Semi-Dress". White's Boots. Retrieved September 1, 2025.

"White's Boots Company". White's Boots. Retrieved September 1, 2025.

"White's Boots: 168 years of handmade tradition". Filson. Retrieved September 1, 2025.

"Custom Classic Semi Dress by White's Boots". Baker Shoe. Retrieved September 1, 2025.