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
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
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
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
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)
Ready to elevate your everyday ensembles? Shop for the latest footwear designs on Net-A-Porter here.
Comments, questions or feedback? Email us at [email protected].