From brogues to ballet pumps: discover the five essential shoe styles every woman needs in her wardrobe right now
Words Joy Montgomery
WHITE TRAINERS
The white trainer won last year’s prize for biggest fashion comeback. Now this sporty style has found its way into the style hall of fame – AKA our capsule wardrobe. Versatile and comfortable, trainers look great with everything from tailored trousers to boyfriend jeans. We love using ours to dress down smart silhouettes and luxe fabrics.
MASCULINE FLATS
Brogues and loafers are the bedrock of any gamine-chic ensemble. Loved by Alexa Chung – who pairs hers with tea dresses and ’60s minis – they can transition effortlessly from workwear formal to weekend casual. Invest in a high quality pair now (try Church’s) and watch them work season after season. If black seems a little austere then look to brands like Rogue Matilda who create quirky looks using unusual fabrics and trims.
HEELED COURTS
No wardrobe would be complete with a pair of classic heeled courts. Whether you wear them for work or nights out only, they are essential items for instant dressy appeal. A pointed toe and needle thin heel offer a delicate and leg-flattering finish. Black is timeless, while a fire engine red pair will inject character into boyfriend jeans and a breton.
ANKLE BOOTS
The essential pairing of this season’s beloved cropped flare jeans, ankle boots are the shoes that can elevate any outfit. We live in them in winter when our poor ankles need some shelter and, come summer, pair with flowing midi dresses. There are now multiple interpretations to choose from. Pointed suede iterations look very rock and roll with skinny black jeans, while patent block heeled versions offer a retro finish.
BALLET PUMPS
Only to be unearthed in the summer months, ballet pumps are essential shoes for chic city-dwellers. Unassuming in a wonderfully French way, we fold them into our handbags on a night out and slip them on when we no other shoes will quite work. They might be humble, but we certainly couldn’t do life without them. French Sole are our go to brand for well made and beautifully designed pumps.
