Trends show that the girls are going flat out this season
Sarah Jessica Parker and her walk-in shoe closet in that movie acknowledged how important shoes are in a woman’s wardrobe. Isn’t it time that style also spells comfort? We think, the flatter, the better
Block heels, mules, platforms, sneakers, loafers and kitten heels — it seems flats are now the height of fashion, and I am finally able to understand the term “shoe heaven”. As someone who has never believed in the “no pain, no gain” theory of fashion, I have always maintained that you can be comfortable and chic at the same time. That means itchy clothes and uncomfortable shoes are a big no-no for me. The highest heel I wear is of 65 millimeters — considered a mid-heel by most women (especially those who work in fashion). So when a picture of Sarah Jessica Parker wearing gold flat Mary Janes (the closed T-strap style of shoes) went viral recently, I was overjoyed. When it comes to shoes, Sarah Jessica Parker was responsible for turning Manolo Blahnik and Jimmy Choo into household names during her
Sex and The City days. And now she has her own eponymous footwear label, so you could call her the ultimate celebrity shoe maven.
The current flat phenomenon started with Gucci, as its kangaroo fur-lined loafers became the ‘it’ shoe of Fall 2015. And while I love my flats, these shoes did not appeal to me. I am not a ‘pretty/ delicate’ dresser, but these shoes fell into the ‘universal repeller’ genre of fashion for me. Luckily, at around the same time another shoe brand Aquazzura was gaining fashion cred. This ‘Made in Italy’ shoe brand was founded by Colombian designer Edgardo Osorio, six years ago. His use of tie-ups, pom-poms and fringes make his shoes all about fun. As a designer who believes in combining femininity with comfort, his collection always includes an extensive range of flats and block heels. So I am now the proud owner of three pairs of Aquazzuras — I wear them to work and with my evening dresses. And of course as Gucci and Aquazzura started ‘flat-outing’ the fashion industry, there was another trend that was peaking — the sneaker. It seems fashion has finally woken up to the fact that flats can be your true sole-mate. And the experts agree, says Cassie Smart, buying manager — shoes and bags, matchesfashion.com, the fashion website known for its style savvy. She says, “Over the past few seasons, we have seen strong growth across our flat shoe business as our customer has embraced this trend for more interesting styles that work equally well for both day and night. They are no longer just viewed as a classic commercial option.” And she recommends that you look at loafers as these seem to be the shoe of the moment. Other flats to also look at include the mule and the Mary Jane. And if you feel you need a bit of height, then perhaps the block heel is the shoe for you. Buyer for Level Shoes Emilie Nigon says, “Flats are absolutely a hit this season. Whether you’re looking for something casual or super chic for a night out, this season’s range of flats is so diverse — you could literally live in them.” Now that is music to my ears, or should I say, my feet!
As Gucci and Aquazzura started ‘flatouting’ the industry, the sneaker trend was peaking. Fashion has woken up to the fact that flats can be your true solemate.