I wore a pair with brass hardware at a steampunk gathering in Sydney, and honestly, they were a game changer. The design really elevated my outfit, but what surprised me most was the comfort — cushioned insoles made them easy to wear all day, even with all the walking and standing around. They also held up really well against the mixed terrain. If you want something that blends durability with authentic design, check out the footwear options on https://australian-steampunk-bazaar.com/. They’ve got ankle boots and brogues with those exact brass accents you mentioned, and they’re designed with festivals in mind.