Are you ready for heels?
The Christmas-outfit selfie Carole Middleton posted on the Party Pieces Instagram account last week might have been a bit premature, but it hit the spot. I’m not just talking about Carole’s charcoal, wide leg sparkly tweed trousers and stretch velvet top although they constitute the perfect get you in the mood outfit without going into full reindeer antlers mode.
What really struck me are her block-heeled loafers. Between Carole and the fabulously well-dressed Beth Harmon, above, protagonist of Netflix’s Sixties-era The Queen’s Gambit: heels could be on the rise. If, like me, you’ve spent the best part of 2020 in trainers, the idea of any kind of shoe that doesn’t have triple layer cushioning might seem antagonistic. Until recently, one with an actual heel seemed positively antediluvian. While there are so many good things about trainers, a proper shoe will make you feel different, encourage a different perspective on proportions and maybe even provide a psychological break with the past 10 months.
No one’s talking about a return to 100mm heels – yet. But a 50 or 60mm kitten or block heel is enough to add some elevation and accentuate that gastrocnemius muscle at the back of your calves.
Penelope Chilvers’ metallic or suede block heeled loafers (50mm) are repeat best sellers, but this year her Infinity velvet sandals (75mm) are proving surprisingly popular too; ditto Le Monde Beryl’s satin and velvet mules, which come in a range of delectable shades.
It’s a similar story with Gucci and Roger Vivier’s low block heels. Meanwhile, if there’s one item that is doing well on the beleaguered LK Bennett website, it’s the block heeled loafers, right, that look worthy of The Queen’s Gambit. Satin, velvet, or antique gold and silver finishes are both more versatile and more practical than you might imagine. For an extra layer of comfort, add some gel pads. Scholl have most areas covered, but for a whole new experience, Enertor’s are used by the Army (£29.99 enertor.com). The best of both worlds: a gorgeous shoe that feels like a trainer.