Ladies, let's talk about shoes! They're not just a necessary accessory to protect our feet from the harsh realities of the world - they can be so much more. Shoes take a basic outfit and elevate it to new levels of sophistication and style. From a sleek stiletto to a chunky platform sneaker, the right shoe can impact how we present ourselves to the world.
But hold on, before you start drooling over those gorgeous stilettos or funky sneakers, let's talk about something equally important - comfort. Yes, style is essential, but comfort is crucial. No one wants to be hobbling around in painful shoes, ruining their outfit and possibly causing injury. So, choosing shoes, a balance between style and comfort is important.
And the good news: you don't have to sacrifice style for comfort in today's fashion world. Thanks to material innovation, shoe designers are creating stylish footwear that prioritises comfort. From memory foam insoles to arch support and breathable materials, they're finding ways to ensure that shoes are fashionable and comfortable.
Because let's be real, the perfect shoe should feel as good as it looks. It should be easy to walk in, support our feet, and feel comfortable for extended periods. Let's explore all types of shoes for women with our elaborate guide to wearing shoes.
Women's shoe style guide
Flats
Flats are a go-to choice for women who prioritise comfort without sacrificing style. They're versatile, easy to wear and come in a range of styles, making them the perfect choice for a variety of occasions.
- Juttis and kolhapuris: Juttis and kohlapuris are traditional Indian flats that are perfect for ethnic wear. They're made with beautiful embroidery, embellishments, and colours, making them ideal for weddings, festivals, and other formal occasions. Pair them with a saree or a salwar kameez for a complete ethnic look.
- Loafers: Loafers are another popular style of flats perfect for a casual and semi-formal look. They're comfortable and stylish and come in a range of colours and patterns. You can wear them with jeans, trousers, skirts, or dresses, making them a versatile choice for any occasion.
- Ballerinas: Ballerinas are a classic style of flats that never go out of fashion. They're feminine and elegant and come in a range of materials and colours. Pair them with a dress, skirt, or jeans for a chic look that's perfect for work, dinner dates, or even casual outings.
- Sandals and slippers: Sandals and slippers are perfect for a beach or summer look. They're comfortable and lightweight and come in a range of styles, including strappy, gladiator, and flip-flops. Pair them with shorts, skirts, or dresses for a casual, laid-back look.
Heels
The ultimate symbol of femininity and elegance. There's something about the click-clack of a high heel on the pavement that exudes confidence and power. Heels can transform an outfit from drab to fab in an instant, adding a touch of sophistication and glamour to any look.
- Stilettos: Stilettos are the epitome of high-end fashion and the ultimate choice for formal events. They add height and grace to any outfit and are perfect for creating an elongated silhouette. Be it a wedding or a red carpet event, a classic pair of stilettos can make all the difference in making you look and feel your best.
- Wedges: For those who want to add some height without sacrificing comfort, wedges are a great option. With their solid heel and platform sole, wedges provide stability and support, making them perfect for events where you might be on your feet for extended periods. They come in various styles and colours, making them a versatile choice for any occasion.
- Pumps: If you're looking for a classic option that can be worn with anything, pumps are a perfect choice. They come in a variety of heel heights and shapes, making them a versatile option for any outfit. Whether you're dressing up for a night out or dressing down for work, pumps are a stylish option that will never go out of fashion.
- Ankle strap heels and peep-toe heels: These are perfect for adding some extra oomph to a night out. The ankle strap adds an extra touch of elegance and support, while the peep toe adds a bit of flirtiness and fun. These styles are perfect for pairing with a mini dress or skirt and can add a playful touch to any outfit.
- Mules and Mary Janes: For a more retro-inspired look, mules and Mary Janes are the way to go. Mules are backless shoes that can be both elegant and casual, while Mary Janes are a classic vintage-inspired option with their distinctive strap across the instep. Both styles are perfect for adding a touch of old-world charm to your outfit and can be paired with anything from jeans to dresses.
Boots
Boots have been around for centuries, protecting our feet from harsh weather conditions and providing us with a stylish accessory to complete our outfits. Whether you prefer the classic leather look or the modern suede style, there's a boot out there for everyone.
- Ankle boots: Ankle boots, in particular, have been a fashion staple for years. They are versatile and can be worn with almost anything, from casual jeans to elegant dresses. These boots come in various designs, from sleek and sophisticated to edgy and rebellious.
- Calf-length boots: Calf-length boots, on the other hand, are perfect for dressier occasions, best paired with a formal dress for a chic look. These boots are also a great option for those who want to elongate their legs, as they tend to stop just below the knee.
- Thigh-high boots: For those who want to make a bold statement, thigh-high boots are a must-have. These boots can take any outfit from ordinary to extraordinary, and they are perfect for a night out on the town. They come in a range of materials, from leather to suede, and can be styled with skirts, dresses, or even shorts.
- Wedge boots: Wedge boots are a comfortable option for those who want to add height to their outfit without the discomfort of traditional heels. They can be paired with anything from leggings to skirts and can easily transition from day to night.
- Army boots: A trendy option that can add an edgy touch to any outfit, army boots are perfect for those who want to add some personality to their wardrobe and are great for creating a unique, urban-inspired look.
Sneakers
Sneakers, once only reserved for athletic activities, have become a fashion staple in recent years. With their comfortable design and endless style options, it's no wonder why they've become a go-to for both comfort and style.
- Flat sneakers: Flat sneakers, such as canvas or leather designs, are perfect for a laid-back, casual look. They pair perfectly with jeans, shorts, or even a flowy summer dress. These versatile shoes come in a range of colours and patterns, from classic white to bold prints, making them a great addition to any wardrobe.
- Heeled sneakers: For those who want to add some height to their outfit, sneakers with heels are a game-changer. They combine the comfort of sneakers with the height of heels, making them perfect for dressier occasions or for those who want to dress up a casual look. These shoes can be found with a variety of heel heights, from subtle lifts to bold platforms, so you can find the perfect fit for your style.
- Festive sneakers: If you're looking to add a pop of colour or personality to your outfit, embroidered sneakers are a great option. From floral designs to quirky slogans, there's a pair of embroidered sneakers for everyone. These shoes can make a statement on their own or with a simple outfit to add some extra flair.
A comfortable shoe can boost our confidence, allowing us to walk while enhancing our overall look, right from trendy women’s loafers to uber-cool sneakers. So, ladies, the next time you're shopping for shoes, remember - style and comfort need to marry to create the perfect shoe with our shoe style guide.