Style Smart: Elevate Your Basic OOTDs With These Fashion-Forward Footwear

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The right shoes have the power to transform even the simplest ensembles. That’s why one of our secrets to staying ahead of the fashion curve is to update our ‘shoedrobe’ with the key trend footwear pieces for the season.

Slip into a pair of utilitarian boots if you fancy a little androgyny action or flaunt your fresh pedicure in strappy embellished heels when the occasion calls for it — shoes provide the finishing touch to every top-to-toe look. Ahead, we spotlight four of the season’s most fashion-forward footwear trends, along with our favourite clothing picks that bring out their best features.

Shine like a streetstyle darling in skinny embellished heels and unexpected silhouettes


skinny embellished heels and unexpected silhouettes at net-a-porter

Step into the spotlight with a pair of skinny embellished heels; (Left to Right) Sophia Webster ‘Rosalind’ glittered mirrored-leathered sandals, ~SGD477/USD349.74 (Photo from: N​et-A-Porter.com​). STAUD ‘Papaya’ cropped cotton-blend poplin top, ~SGD228/USD165.95 (Photo from: ​Net-A-Porter.com​). Holzweiler ‘Skunk’ belted woven cargo pants, ~SGD323/USD234.61 (Photo from: ​Net-A-Porter.com​)


From precious pearl-encrusted details to classy crystal decorations, this season’s ‘skinny’ heels are all dressed up in eye-catching embellishments that will make them shine both on and off-camera. Slip into renowned British shoe and accessories designer ​Sophia Webster’s popular ‘Rosalind’ mirrored-leather sandals​, now available in a gorgeous, rainbow glittered colourway.

Go bold and try your hand at pairing these beauties with unexpected silhouettes to create an ensemble that celebrates your unique sense of style. We complemented the elegant details of the heels with ​a feminine cropped poplin top from STAUD​ ​and ​Holzweiler’s belted woven cargo pants.

This ensemble looks delightfully current with its surprising mix of feminine and masculine elements, where the top’s puffed sleeves and pastel-pink shade play off the casual, active terracotta cargo pants.


Be a free-spirited fashionista in ‘first lady’ pumps and a playsuit


first lady pumps and playsuit at net-a-porter

Look ‘en pointe’ in a pair of pointed pumps; (Left to Right) By Far ‘Alla’ leather pumps, ~SGD483/USD355.13 (Photo from: N​et-A-Porter.com)​. Stella McCartney hexagon-frame gold-tone sunglasses, ~SGD254/USD184.36 (Photo from: ​Net-A-Porter.com). Giuliva Heritage ‘The Sienna’ belted cotton-blend terry playsuit, ~SGD817/USD593.08 (Photo from: ​Net-A-Porter.com​)


Not a ‘girly’ girl, but a leading lady with a little spunk. Add a ladylike lustre to your closet with a pair of pointed-toe flats or heels, which are designed to visually lengthen your precious pins. Put your best foot forward in ​By Far’s ‘Alla’ leather pumps​, which are designed in a soft light-yellow hue, along with pointed toes and slender ankle straps details.

In this new ‘normal’, consider retiring your formal skirt suits for the time being and opt for an ensemble that’s more free-spirited and fun. Deck yourself in ​Giuliva Heritage’s ‘The Sienna’ playsuit​, which is made of soft cotton-blend terry for stretch and easy movement, along with these ​cool, hexagonal sunnies from Stella McCartney.

The playsuit also comes with a fuss-free belt, which you can easily cinch at the waist to define your curves or do without if you prefer a more relaxed look. As for the frames, they are the perfect finishing touch to this carefree ensemble with their ​sleek gold-tone metal detailing.


Channel 90’s chic in chelsea boots and athleisure separates


chelsea boots and athleisure separates at net-a-porter

Chelsea boots are not only durable but comfortable as well; (Left to Right) Proenza Schouler topstitched leather Chelsea boots, ~SGD1,155/USD846.77 (Photo from: N​et-A-Porter.com​) La Ligne ‘Slinky’ two-tone ribbed-knit polo shirt, ~SGD251/USD181.99 (Photo from: ​Net-A-Porter.com​). ANNA QUAN ‘Matilde’ layered ribbed cotton maxi skirt, ~SGD482/USD349.75 (Photo from: Net-A-Porter.com​)


This durable, chunky footwear staple is given a modern makeover, where it’s fused with comfort to become one of the hero boots of the season. With its rubber sole and utilitarian-first aesthetic, the Chelsea boot is often paired with more androgynous pieces, such as blazers and skinny jeans. These ​Proenza Schouler topstitched leather Chelsea boots​, which are made in Italy, feature contrasting white stitching details and elasticated panels for added comfort.

Have a go at charting your own unique fashion path by opting for 90’s-inspired athleisure separates instead, such as ​La Ligne’s ‘Slinky’ two-tone polo shirt​ and​ ​ANNA QUAN’s ‘Matilde’ skirt.​ ​Both pieces are made from ribbed material to gently accentuate your curves and possess long-lasting wardrobe power due to their versatility.

The polo shirt features contrasting trims and goes great with pants too, while the skirt’s flattering nude shade and melange cotton material make it a comfortable, chic wardrobe essential that you can always reach for whenever you’re in the mood for neutrals.


Command the room in second-skin boots and a blazer dress


second-skin boots and blazer dress at net-a-porter

Skintight knee-high boots are in style this season; (Left to Right) Alexander McQueen leather over-the-knee boots, ~SGD2,158/USD1,581.55 (Photo from: N​et-A-Porter.com​).​ A​NNA QUAN ‘Valentina’ wrap mini dress, ~SGD791/USD574.52 (Photo from: N​et-A-Porter.com​). STAUD ‘Moon’ ruched leather tote, ~SGD474/USD344.37 (Photo from:​ Net-A-Porter.com​).


This season’s knee-high boots are designed to hug your legs such that they create a sexy, second-skin effect. These statement-making shoes look best with minis — such as a pair of high-waisted pants or an A-line skort.

Hit the pavement with confidence in these statement-making ​leather over-the-knee boots from Alexander McQueen​ and wear them with the ​ANNA QUAN ‘Valentina’ wrap mini dress. The latter is made from a mid-weight linen-blend and features light-padded shoulders to help you achieve the no-nonsense ​#girlboss ​look.

Serve up a double dosage of leather action by completing your ensemble with ​STAUD’s ‘Moon’ ruched leather tote.​ ​Its unique crescent shape is a nod to the ever-popular mini shoulder bag trend and it stylishly stores all of your essentials, such as your phone, purse and keys. Go forth and conquer the world!

Which trending footwear design are you most excited to try this season?

(Cover photos from: Net-A-Porter.com​)

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Ready to elevate your everyday ensembles? Shop for the latest footwear designs on Net-A-Porter ​here.​

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