As I mentioned last week, I gave up on high heels a long time ago. I wore them for my graduation ceremony, and swore an oath to my feet that I would never again attempt the London underground in a pair.
I’m lucky enough to be in a job where I don’t need to wear them, I’m not a going OUT out kind of girl, and if I’m ever at a party or wedding then all I want to do is dance. I’m uncontrollable when my jam comes on and let’s face it, I’m not the type to be stumbling around like a newly born foal trying to boogie only using my top half…..So flats are the answer.
Whilst at school I had a headmaster who insisted that the female members of sixth form wore heels to ensure they looked ‘smart’. I was all too quick to point out that it is in fact, the 21 st Century, and although flat shoes back then weren’t always the most attractive, we needed to cart the same number of books from class to class as our male co-learners and… I think I made my point…there is now, however, a huge selection of super smart FLAT shoes that are comfortable, fashionable and don’t make your toes bleed. Here are a few of ours from this season…
First up we have Wonders, a beautiful Spanish brand introduced last week. 3152 Tormes is available in black and taupe and is the sweetest summer shoe. The t-bar brings back memories of traditional school schoes, and the patent leather faux reptile print with cut-out detail adds a contemporary feel.
It has the tiniest of heels (1.5cm), just enough to give a little lift and the adjustable buckle ensures they fit like a dream. Easy to walk in and very elegant. In black, they’d be great for the office, and the neutral taupe would go well with 50s style cropped trousers or a pencil skirt.
When it comes to a slip-on loafer, Pikolinos have got this one,W5G-3569 Royal. It’s all about the small details. The top line has a tiny fringe all the way around and the front section has a mesh-like laser cut-out feature with a bold leather band and those timeless tassels.
The streak of yellow along the sole unit brings them to life and the leather upper and lining will embrace your feet throughout those long days. They’re available in demin and brandy. Slip on your favourite pair of skinny jeans, a crisp white shirt and grab your Wayfarers.
There was a time when I thought full fringes belonged on the golf course. Shoe fringes that is. This delicate number have changed my mind. They would look lovely on the golf course, but they’d also look stunning at a wedding reception, in a resteraunt or stood in line at a swanky bar.
Hispanitas have done it again. 62497 Florencia , in jeans and new shade white, features only the heel and toe of the shoe, making it oh so fancy. 62497 Florencia is available in a limited range of sizes so make sure you don’y miss out!
The pointed toe looks polished and refined and the tiny buckle on the front adds a pretty point of interest. The cushioned sole and a small elastic grip guarantee comfort and walkability.
I remember when ballet pumps came into fashion. Everyone wore them and they were completely flat, with a drastic and unflatteringly low top line. I think they might have been predominantly constructed of cardboard, as they seemed to just dissolve at the first hint of rain drops. Those days are long gone, but leather shoes do need looking after. Use a good protector spray on them to keep the colour looking fresh and treat them to some leather cream every now and again to make sure they’re kept soft and supple.
