Shoe know-how

There are certain things you must always consider when trying out a shoe.

Do they actually fit you?

We always press down on the front to find our toes, but why do we actually do this? The positioning of my big toe has not been beneficial to me since my feet stopped growing past the age of 11 years old. What I mean by 'fit' includes everything we never consider checking: instep, width, narrowness of the heel, the placement of our ankles... the list goes on. When you are telling yourself the shoe will stretch to accommodate those lovely bunions caused by years of high heel-induced abuse, you are lying to yourself- and the shoes. Don't buy a pair of shoes thinking all you need is a heel grip or an insole. It's all lies, I tell you. Get the fit right, and your feet will love you back. What's more, your shoes will last longer as you will be walking in them correctly (think of this like a well inflated tyre on your car... get it right, and your fuel consumption will take you the extra mile).

Are they too high?

Do you need a platform beyond 90mm? Whatever height you can walk on COMFORTABLY, stick to it. If you need to go higher than your natural 'set' heel height, wear it in a wedge or platform capacity. Nobody enjoys watching a girl strutting like a duck in a shoe she can't move in. Don't waste your money on shoes that make you break out into a sweat with every step.

Are they appropriate?

Do they scream streetwalker? If so, in a good, or a bad way? Are they good for office, bar, or pavement pounding? Or all of the above? None of the above?
Take stock of your lifestyle. If you've recently moved from the city to a more refined country living, cease buying those stilettos, and start considering the ankle boot. Nothing depresses you more than being unable to wear your favourite shoes. Instead, take the money you would have spent on them, and buy yourself a weekend away with the girls/your other half/the one you've been dating/your family. Make memories.

Don't be a fool, buy the right tool.



ph: Hogger & Co

The rise of the flat

Yes, I love heels. Like, REALLY love heels.

It wasn't actually that long ago that I would spend all day, every day wearing them. At work or at play, there they would be.

Lately, however, I find myself returning to the days before the 100mm became a permanent feature of my feet, as the selection of flat shoes on the market have become wilder, more attractive, less frumpy and somewhat less orthopaedic.

via thecoveteur.com

At this very moment, I have a very attractive pair of ponyskin pointy points on from the Spaniards at Bimba Y Lola, uplifting my spirits- and my otherwise rather mundane outfit. I'm starting to feel less Marilyn Monroe, and more Audrey Hepburn.

While at work, I am very firmly of the flats bandwagon. My uniform repertoire is now completed with a very attractive pair of Christopher Kane slippers in velvet (see my Instagram feed, people), and an admiring-comment-provoking pair of patent oxfords from Russell and Bromley. The men I have found are particularly jealous of this 'party in the back' spin on officewear.

Russell and Bromley, via Getty

They say life is too short to be taking such limited strides as you do in heels (i presume someone, somewhere does). Though it is an utter joy to be so liberated, I still lust after that explosion of joy to be found in being four inches taller. The solution? The lunacy of heels are kept for when you are ready to let loose and go out for a great time. After all, that is what the weekend is made for.

GT-C.

Gilt set - go!

I love anything that glitters, glimmers and shimmers. It's true, and I am willing to bet that somewhere in there I am part magpie.

Here's why...

Lanvin

My favourite flats are, without a shadow of a doubt, the best way to inject some gold into the everyday menial tasks. They are well worn- and well loved.

I love black, and wear dark colours all year round. So, to brighten me up and to add a dash of gold dust to the sea of black, navy and grey, I will throw on something like this jacket here (a new addition to my wardrobe). The boyfriend shape stops it being to 'showbiz' and brings it into the sphere of insouciantly cool. There are a pair of matching gold shorts that I purchased also, and you will be seeing them shortly in my summer edits!

Carvela

 Yes, more shoes, but then this is written from a shoe addict's point of view... #PerfectPartyShoesEverInventedForThePartMagpiePartLiberaceShoeGirl

So you weren't a huge fan of glitter? Well, you are now. Case closed.

Photo credits: Goody Two-Choos

Trends you should hate (but actually LOVE)

1. Retro denim
When denim is so bad, it's so good... Double denim, denim dresses, frayed hem denim skirts, patchwork. I. Want. It. All.

P.S. Flares are back.

2. White shoes
Stigma of trailer parks and colouring in scuffs with Tipp-ex - but when paired with boyfriend trousers, good things happen. The more I see it, the more I like it.

3. Metallic leather
So outdated, but so cool!

4. Mirror lens
The trend better suited to scenes in Top Gun, this look has travelled into the blogosphere of certified stylistas.

5. Sliders
Tres Unchic. However, I'm willing to let this slide (ahem) as it looks SO comfortable for the summer heat.

Photo credit: WhoWhatWear; Stylelist; Fabsugar; the xtyle; Vogue; Pinterest; Pinterest; Le 21eme; modern legacy

St. Paddy's perfect picks

Shoes: Miu Miu

Not normally one for fancy dress or fashioning novelty hats for one day of the year, I am on board when it comes to an excuse for wearing something a little bit more special. See below for Patrick's (and my) perfect picks. Enjoy them tonight or throughout the week to bring you, with any hope, the luck of the Irish.

 

 

Photo credits: Goody Two-Choos

Floods Vs footwear

If you've seen your BBC news updates, or even page 5 of yesterday's Telegraph, you will see the state  of Devon and the flood-ridden towns in which I live. Not only have the last 48 hours been full of evacuations and blue flashing lights, but the ducks seem to be having an unusually good time at Torcross too.

This presents an unforeseen conundrum- when one can not wear suede, nor spend seven days of the week in wellies, what should be worn on your feet? Fashion is not usually functional, but I intend to find a solution to this problem.

I have tried to persevere and continue to wear my favourite cognac suede wedge ankle boots, but have managed to destroy them- all thanks to trudging through the rain-soaked streets. So, too, have things taken a turn for the worst when the water line rose above the brim of my wellies. It seems I am fast running out of luck.

If you are looking for wet weather gear to see you through the far from exotic climate, you will need military precision planning- and an army of rubber.

To brave the rain-streaked streets, try these short wellies by Hunter X Rag & Bone (available here)...

...Or these rubber boots by Melissa (check out the neon flash of yellow, a key colour for the pre-spring collections), available from Shopstyle.

And, if you are looking for style and substance, look no further than my very favourite rainwear brand from the genius people behind Ilse Jacobsen. These boots (available here) come in varying heights and more colours than you can shake a soggy stick at. I have a pair in cream with black laces and I cannot begin to tell you how much I adore them. Pretty soon, you'll be praying for the wet stuff. Looks like it's not just good weather for ducks after all.

Photo credits: Hunter, Shopstyle, Polyvore

On a serious note, my thoughts are with everyone affected by the flooding. With my brother working tirelessly for HM Coastguard this past week, I have seen the damage and the knock-on effects this run of bad weather has done. 

Blue Monday

Today has been proven scientifically to be the worst day of the year, for reasons including returning to work, bad weather, Christmas holiday blues, high debt levels and Divorce Monday.

To pull you out of this sorry-looking slump, I have found the best way to make the most of Blue Monday. The silver lining is that it will soon be over, and back to yellow sunny skies tomorrow.

All from Filippa K

Don't just wear blue: own it. Wear it head-to-toe with pride and command attention when you walk down the street or through the office. This wonderful set from Scandinavian brand Filippa K shows you how to take on a bold colour by the horns. Keep it tailored and ultra-cool with a subtle nod to stylised chic, but an overwhelming sense of innate coolness.

Sunglasses from Illesteva

Bloggers love them, I love them, we all want them. Get your blue-tinted mirrored sunglasses now, and wear forever. The best time to buy yours is now, to remind us that summer (and the sun) is but a few months away. Wherever there is a winter, there will be a spring: and a new day to bask in the glory of your super-sweet shades.



Onitsuka trainers from ASOS

Yes, we all do it, we all convince ourselves that it will be a new year of fresh faces and fresh starts. So, why not actually carry out your resolution and hit the gym when you say you will? If you need motivation, all you have to do is pull on these beauties and you will be racing the other gym bunnies to the treadmill.

Photo credits: Filippa K, Illesteva, Onitsuka

Magpie moment

Once upon a time, in a land far far away, there lived a girl with too many shoes...

Yes, I buckled under the pressure of Christmas magic and sparkle, and I fell head over (quite literally) heels for another pair of evening shoes. I maintain they were necessary for both my office Christmas party, and for my ego. Sure, they're not particularly practical, but they are just oh so pretty. Now, what is it they say about girls and magpies?

I initially saw a pair from René Caovilla, the opulent Italian shoemaker with it's signature silver glitter sole, but crumpled at the sight of the price tag. With a pair of Caovilla's setting you back in the region of £750, I quickly realised they would forever remain on my imaginary 'wish list'. So, imagine my delight when I stumbled across these sandals one particularly 'blah' Saturday morning!

Found in Covent Garden's Kurt Geiger store, these Carvela's created a frenzy the minute they hit my Facebook wall. Clearly my friends share my substance abuse problem (pretty footwear) and so, as my fellow magpies hit the 'Like' button, it seems birds of a feather really do flock together; particularly where shoes are concerned.

Photo credit: Goody Two-Choos

Architecture meets fashion

On the first Monday of October, which conveniently happens to be today, is World Architecture Day. As architecture is often inspired by- and in itself inspires- fashion design, I have put together a selection of architecturally fashionable pieces in homage to this annual event.

Kicking off the architectural fashion feature, Skyscraper heels have always held a special place in my heart for those special parties where there is little walking to be done, and a seat never more than 100 yards away... Think skyscraper heels, think Charlotte Olympia.

Windowpane checks are big news once more thanks to J. Crew and Stella McCartney. Pick up a pair of smart office-to-bar-friendly trousers for the new season, like this pair from J.Crew. They tick two structural boxes: minimalist lines and windowpane checks.

In architectural terms, Fleur-de-Lys is a very feminine baroque-inspired style which always serves well to counteract the androgynous and minimalist styles prominent on the catwalks and street style stars of the last few years. Hunt No More, a young and playful Australian brand, has created a Fleur-de-Lys themed collection for AW13/14; with one particular dress named just so.

To add a sense of drama to this season's key cocoon coat, throw a decadent baroque scarf over your shoulder and fasten with an art deco brooch. This Kenzo scarf is available here.

Iconography is literally iconic this season, with Dolce & Gabbanna amongst others creating a collection inspired by religious icons, church architecture and the luxurious decor of the Byzantine mosaics. Some may consider this dress out of budget at over £10,000, but I still think it's beautiful. Surely it can't hurt to look..?

Photo credits: theoutnet.com, net-a-porter.com

Suited and booted

I am a very fussy person when it comes to boots. I inspect each angle thoroughly and expect nothing less than a beautifully crafted piece of footwear. It must hug and mold itself to every inch of my leg as, much like a shirt or man's suit jacket, you can spot an ill fit from a mile away.

Ankle, tall, heeled, OTK (over the knee), wedge, fur-lined, suede, leather or patchwork, it doesn't matter- eventually, I will reach the point of desperation where it is coming up to November, the weather is deteriorating rapidly, and I am still bootless. I will make my summer ballerina pumps stretch to their full weather-bearing capacity until, finally, moaning and groaning, they are relieved from duty and put away to hibernate until next Spring.

This year, my focus has been directed towards the hunt for the perfect ankle boot, and it has taken me two months of solid soul-searching to reach this point: contentment and relief.

To save you lovely ladies from the same gloomy fate, I have compiled my favourite three ankle boots which will serve you from the office to dancefloor to Sunday stroll in style. These styles have all been tried, tested, and given the Goody Two-Choos seal of approval, and you should all know by now that there truly is no higher mark of quality. Consider this the Michelin Star rating of Boots.

1. L.K. Bennett Dionne Leather Ankle Boot, available here
2. ASH Illico Suede Wedge Ankle Boots, available here
3. HOSS Intropia Metallic Leather Ankle Boot, available here

30 shoes has September

To mark the 30 days of September, here is my pick of autumn's wishlist-worthy shoes: one pair for every day and every possible eventuality. Whether you are a heel hero or a friend of the flat, read on before you get left behind.

Isabel Marant/ASOS/Pretty Ballerinas/Nicholas Kirkwood/Hoss Intropia/River Island/French Sole/Saint Laurent/Bruno Premi/Hudson/Topshop/Bloch/ASOS/Dries Van Noten/Ted Baker/Jimmy Choo/Russell and Bromley/Kenzo/Christian Louboutin/Zara/ASH/Grenson/Nicholas Kirkwood + Erdem/Oscar De La Renta/Ilse Jacobsen/Tabitha Simmons/Dune/Alexandre Birman/Gina/Camilla Skovgaard

Clear thinking

I can see clearly now the rain has gone...

Well the rain may still be lingering in the true British summer fashion, but my penchant for perspex and see-through accessories is sticking. 

Take, for instance, the crystal-heeled Chanel boots from AW12/13, or the Marc by Marc Jacobs PVC cross-body bag. At first glance, you see nothing untoward or particularly striking. But then, after a double take or two, you can see just how clever the craftsmanship has led the eye to see how the finer details have been finished perfectly- whether it's the stitching, hardware or the sculpting of a heel.

Although a perspex heel has never been seen as particularly chic or possessing any kind of positive connotations (think Red Light District), Chanel managed to prove them wrong and  re-imagine the potential of see-through materials. Totally modern, totally cool. 

Charlotte Olympia's perspex clutch sold out in mere minutes at one store in Dallas, and the Hermes Birkin has been toted by the elite few in the fashion world. If that doesn't whet your taste buds, I don't know what will. 

All that can be said is that now, as designers and fashion houses are beginning to experiment with innovative and sustainable materials, it's time to rethink the possibilities of your sartorial recipe. It's not that cashmere doesn't still hold true as a staple piece... you just have to pair it with some faux leather, rubber, and maybe even some PVC.

So let's forget how quickly the rain came along and banished the heat wave, and try to see clearly now even though it's pouring. 

Photo credits: Michele Silvestro; La mode oui c'est moi

Warning: May contain nuts

I have a secret of the nutty kind...

The footwear addict that I have become means that I am forever spending my precious shoe-wearing time battling with the removal of stickers on the soles. Even once I have finally managed to get rid of all the paper, there is still the sticky glue which collects fluff, dust and all manner of grossness from the carpet, creating an ever-so-attractive rectangular shaped fuzz coating on the bottom of my new favourite shoes.

So, to make my life easier and to save my soles, I turn to the kitchen cupboards and seek solace in a jar of peanut butter. No, before you ask, I don't mean comfort eating (that's another story)- I mean using peanut butter as a glue residue remover.

Any peanut butter will do: crunchy, smooth, Skippy, organic, full fat, low fat, Tesco, Kraft... take your pick (although I wouldn't recommend the specialised protein building as for some reason the consistency isn't quite up to par). Just smear the peanut over the desired area, leave for 2-3 minutes, then remove with kitchen roll or a dry cloth. Et voilà! Sticky-free soles.

Pass it on.

Photo credit: nydailynews.com

Sneaker peek

The round up of the Autumn/Winter 2013 collections is now taking place and, with many pick 'n' mix trends on the go, it seems that this winter we will be wrapping up in everything from peach to punk.

It was evident this season that trainers will be a big thing come autumn, with 12 shows opting for sneakers over stilettos. Excellent news for us mere mortals, but not so much for the Victoria Beckham's of this world.

I myself only own two pairs: one for the gym, and one pair of Ash plum-coloured wedge trainers. Needless to say, I will be stocking up on more pairs to work the trend the Max Mara way: cool, collected, and camel.

All this news comes at a very good time, with Harvey Nichols hosting a one day pop-up sneaker event in their London store in association with Fresh Laces, where you have the chance to snap up some rare and limited edition kicks. Find out more here.

Photo credits: http://glitter-x-couture.blogspot.co.uk; 

White is alright

It wasn't that long ago when white shoes had the reputation of a one pence piece: low value, dirties quickly and is considered highly un-chic to carry on one's person. The only time you would be seen dead in white heels would be for fancy dress purposes, or risk ending up on the worst dressed lists of Heat magazine.

But, as is often the case with certain fashions, the white shoe is making a comeback, and all thanks to the blogosphere.

The new generation of trend-setters have gone viral, and it is now easier than ever before to see what people are wearing on the other side of the world, therefore mixing your style and finding inspiration from all corners of the globe. It doesn't matter if you live in Stafford or Sussex- you CAN dress like a Californian, if you choose. Such bloggers have given me a new found faith in the white shoe and, often spotted in them during summer months, street chic and fashion week, are able to carry off this previously dirtied trend with aplomb.

So, if I want to feel like I am on a sunny coast somewhere, or even just wanting to hold on to the British summer that little bit longer come August, I will be dressing my feet in these beauties from Zara: simple, to the point, and highly desirable. Plus, they will set off my summer tan spectacularly.

Meet you at the checkout.

Photo credit: f-2013.blogspot.com

What to wear: Non-interview interviews

Since finishing my final year at University, my mind has been rather pre-occupied with job hunting. I have found lots of advice and help with what to wear to formal interviews but it wasn't until yesterday when a friend was asked to 'pop in' to 'put a face to the name' that I realised just how little styling advice there is for those increasingly common non-interview interviews, particularly as the majority of job applications are now carried out online.

It obviously depends on the job/position/time of year/how much information is given away in that brief conversation, but I believe that these 'getting to know you' meetings are just as much of an interview as a formal one would be, but more about personality and competencies than a direct application set-up.

With that in mind, it is important to let a little personality show through, whether it is in the socks, jewellery or colours you wear. You want to look fresh, creative, and like you have stepped through the door in a classy 'oh this? I always dress this chic' way. Below, I have put together a couple of looks that work both for these non-interviews as well as in the office, once you get those job offers flooding through.

Of course, the same rules apply with having your hemline longer than your fingertips with your arms down by your side, and always dress for the job you want, not just the one you have. Even if you are the hardest working person in the office, if you dress shabbily, you will be treated that way. Finally, always wear closed-toe shoes. They don't have to be high, but nobody needs to see your bare toes while they are trying to focus on the job at hand. It's not professional, no matter how much you spent on that Shellac pedicure.





Trousers: Asos
Shoes: Zara
Blouse: Reiss
Necklace: Topshop
Clutch: Marni

Dress: Reiss
Jacket: Reiss
Shoes: LK Bennett
Bag: DVF

Give yourself a lift

High heels are often reserved for the boardroom or the night time spin around the dancefloor, and very rarely see the light of day outside these such occasions.

Whether this is out of convenience or lack of bravery, it means that wearing heels to the supermarket for the weekly shop is often out of the question- but why?

Wearing heels does more than just make you look good, you feel taller, more empowered and you are always in a better mood the higher you are (emotionally and physically). So, I have assigned myself a new challenge. I will bring my heels out of hibernation, ignore the puzzled looks of fellow shoppers, and use Sainsbury's frozen aisle as my own mini catwalk. But I won't be stopping there.

I want to use heels as a way to put the fun back into everyday life, and by pairing simple pumps with outfits such as white jeans and a blue denim oversized shirt (this is the real challenge: tackling double denim AND heels by daylight), I will pull myself out of the monotonous everyday routine of jeans, t-shirt and flats.

You only live once, so you may as well give yourself a little lift while you do it. Enjoy the everyday, but don't forget to enjoy it in fabulous shoes.

Photo credit: The Sartorialist

Old dogs, new tricks

A moisturiser, but not as you know it. The LBD without the 'it's all been seen before' tag. Black stilettos that punch well above their weight. Keep reading to see the new generation of reworked staples.

Not quite a moisturiser, not quite a balm, and with a hint of tint, this miracle product has earned Bobbi Brown a few extra brownie points in my book. Spread the love, this summer, for a dewy complexion with that not-wearing-any-make-up-type-of-make-up look. It's just the right amount you want on a summer evening when the sun goes down, and it's worth the £34 price tag for that glow which could, up until now, only be achieved by industry insiders.

Roll up, roll up, and head to your shoe closet- because you're going to need to make room for one more pair. They will fit- they have to. If I told you this pair were well over £200, you would believe me, wouldn't you? With just the right amount of hardware, a cheeky bit of toe cleavage, and a sensible 100mm heel without frills, these are a very pretty pair of pumps. Well, the wait is over. I can reveal that these heels are £35 from Miss Selfridge. Bravo, Great British High Street, bravo.  

Last but not least is the best LBD I own. made with a neoprene-esque feel, this Marc Cain Sports dress -similar here- is my go-to for everything from smart functions (layered with a crisp white shirt underneath) to cocktails with friends (paired with crazy print heels). the mesh panelling on the side is more about texture than sex appeal, and the zipped front looks great done up or left down. I'm a huge fan of any athletic shapes and the way the dress has been seamed is a life saver for when you have hit the h'ordeuvres too hard.

Photo credits: Bobbi Brown; Goody Two-Choos; www.angelabeer.com

Summer sale hitlist

"Who ever said money can't buy happiness simply didn't know where to go shopping"

- BO DEREK
Now that the Great British high street is starting to get in the summer spirit, the sales have well and truly taken off- just in time for you to start thinking about those jet setting plans.

Many stores have not only gone into sale but, shock horror, have begun their further reductions already! These days it really is a buyer's market. So go and do your bit for the economy, and spend some of your hard-earned money where it counts: your holiday wardrobe.

This morning Matches online announced further reductions on many of their sale items, now up to 50% off. I love their selection, as most of it is easily worn well into autumn, such as this trench coat by Hancock, or these adorable Del Toro evening slippers which are heading straight into my shopping bag.

I was disappointed with the selection at the local John Lewis, but I did manage to shop at the Chanel counter on their final day of 10% off, so managed to pick up some of their summer collection and the Soleil Tan de Chanel cream bronzer with money knocked off- every little helps, right?

Finally, it's always worth heading to Topshop, where you will find rail upon rail of quirky finds that work as a little pick-me-up on your lunch break. Like this totally irresistible leopard print fedora, or this neoprene backpack which will be your hero piece come autumn.

Photo credits: Matchesfashion.com; Topshop.com

The desirables

Everyone has a wish list.
Some people like cars, some prefer the latest hi-tech gadgets, and many seek sandy shores and exotic places. Then there are some who, like me, lust after the beautiful craftsmanship of luxury fashion. So, without further ado, here is my wishlist.

1. Lucy Choi "Adelite" pumps (in red croc) - here

2. Chanel tote - here

3. Christian Louboutin Pigalle 120 - here

4. Etro print dress - here

5. Acne "Mape" green biker - here

6. Three Floor "Asia" dress - here