Women who say that they have enough shoes are in denial. Truth is, we really can’t have enough, more so when seasonal transitions and trends shift from lighter open-toe delicates, to closed, to fabulousness. Here are the shoes that you need to have in your wardrobe right now.
Metallic Masculinity
Loafers, derbys, brogues and other footwear borrowed from the boys are given an instant chrome rework with ultra high shine finishing. Women who lean towards sleek tailored pieces can give their austere uniforms a touch of luxe. I especially love Alexander Wang’s slit side tasseled loafer.
WHERE TO GET: Locally, and for a day option, try Zara’s wood-heeled oxfords. And since they’re flats, it’s a metallic style that can be paired with everything.
Zara Metallic Oxfords, P5,990
* * *
Heel-Wedge Hybrid
We girls are always on the lookout for what’s new. It’s also a plus if that fresh-off-the runway look promises to be comfortable. Well, Burberry’s take on the Creepers, the go-to choice of Ska and London punk, comes with an even more elevated heel, but instead of the usual chunkiness, the bottom is sliced out in a triangular wedge creating a mini heel. Cool and functional at the same time.
WHERE TO GET: Dorothy Perkins has a similar pair but with a less obvious heel.
Dorothy Perkins Heel Wedge Hybrid, Price unavailable.
* * *
Two toned court shoes
Once fancied by damsels in the high court, this royal shoe gets a cool makeover, thanks to the genius Phoebe Philo of Céline. A contrast of suede and patent with a medium heel height, this shoe can be paired with almost everything — shorts, dresses, jeans, and as seen here, tailored trousers.
* * *
Pointy pumps
This year heralded the return of the classic pump, reworked into a new shape with subtle changes characterized by a hidden platform and a more rounded toe shape, obviously a reaction to all the statement footwear that’s become de rigueur for the girls-about-town in the past years. It’s only predictable then that the pointy pump resurfaces as well. I remember when Janylin used to be the only local brand that carried pointy pumps, in bright jewel tones, too. Now they’re back, and they even come complete with the matching skinny, lower heel.
WHERE TO GET: The pointy pump never really left, but with the current local offerings, the shape and finish are more schoolteacher than fashion leader. Opt for ones that come in sleeker finishes, or with added detail, or both. This patent pump comes with a contrast bright heel that says you can be serious but have a playful twist.
Zara pointy pumps, P2,590
* * *
Mary Janes
They were all over the Fall/Winter runways, with Louis Vuitton leading the pack with its sky-high, patent versions. While that show may have screamed fetish with all the bondage, sleekness and high shine, Mary Janes naturally allude to innocence and a touch of childlike fantasy. Marni’s take veers towards the whimsical, with a color block and chunkier finish. I especially like the contrasting platform sole, sandwiched in between the shoe body and the heel.
WHERE TO GET: This version comes in canvas and leather, with a rounder toe shape and a thick heel. It will look great worn alone or with some ruched socks to offset a flirty short dress.
Zara Mary Janes, P3,490
* * *
Built-in socks
Trust Miuccia Prada for Miu Miu to come up with shoes that are strange and beautiful at the same time. With a stocky body bloated by glitters and an atypical ankle height, this shoe is not for everyone. But I’m sure that’s not stopping die-hard shoe addicts. It’s different, iconic and makes a loud statement on the feet. These characteristics make the design a viable High Street turnover.
* * *
Curved heels
It looks dangerous yes, but what’s life without a little risk, or a little height for that matter? With its three-inch front platform and a bended heel that looks like it’s about to snap, this Thierry Mugler Fall/Winter design defines killer heels. I know Lady Gaga is a muse and a fan, but I’m thinking these pairs are better left worn indoors at events, on even floors. Try them on cobblestones and your ankles are bound to be fractured.
WHERE TO GET: Mugler might not appeal to all, but a curved heel can actually be incorporated in a daywear staple and still look fashionably fierce. This one is a classic, with a hint of rebelliousness.
Topshop curve heel boot, P6,395
* * *
High heeled loafers
This is definitely my style. It captures two fashion tribes at the same time: the preps, and those who embrace menswear, though the tassels also work as a come-on to those who love femininity. It’s an alternative to the classic pump, and one that is versatile enough to cross over from corporate dressing to one that is more casual.
WHERE TO GET: I love this bright blue snakeskin finish juxtaposed with a black tasseled tongue. A heel that chunky also means more than eight hours of maximum standing time. It works when you’re planning a day-to-night outfit. Plus, it’s footwear that shows that you’re in the know.
Zara heeled loafers, P6,590
* * *
I blog at stylesamurai.blogspot.com. See you there!