Confession: I've never been very good at wearing heels. It might seem as though some editors literally live in them, but for me, aside from being partial to the off low-heeled black boot, I've always reached for loafers and lace-ups. Two years of working from home certainly haven't helped this tendency, as shearling slippers have become my shoe style of choice. Yet with work events starting back up again and London Fashion Week just 'round the corner, I've conceded that it might be time to dip my toe (literally) back into my "heeldrobe." It's a thing, okay?
Luckily for me, many of this season's biggest shoe trends just happen to lend themselves to this purpose rather nicely. Nope, not a stiletto in sight. At the easier end of the scale is the kitten heel, aka one of the foot-friendlier options out there. I nabbed a pair of animal-print Manolos in a sample sale the other month, and I've worn them constantly with both jeans and smart trousers for various social occasions. There's also the Mary Jane, with its chunky heel, supportive strap and retro charm. I bought this pair from ASOS back in November and can confirm that I can walk in them for a whole evening without wanting to saw off my own feet.
I also have to give a shout-out to the platform boot, which is one of my favourite ways to rep a heel while it's still feeling wintry outside. It's sure to add a '70s twist to any outfit. So if you're looking to ease yourself back into heel wearing this spring, allow me to guide you through the five styles that will make your life that little bit easier. Scroll down to see and shop my edit.
1. Kitten Heels
The noughties icon has made a comeback this season, and it's never looked better. From Mach & Mach's glittering mules to Mango's pop of orange, the kitten heel is sure to be a shoe staple this spring.
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2. Mary Janes
Chunky-heeled and with a good dose of school-day styling, Mary Jane heels are not only having a moment in the spotlight, but they also happen to be very comfortable. Style them with sheer tights and a miniskirt, or do an Alexa and wear them with cropped jeans and white socks.
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3. Slingbacks
Often overlapping with kitten territory, the slingback shoe is one of those styles that will never really go out of fashion. I've had my eye on Arket's diamanté-studded pair, which will add glamour to a classic pair of black tailored trousers.
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4. Platforms
Harking back to the 1970s, the platform heel is certainly no shrinking violet. While it might not look practical, experience shows us that often the added height at the front can often make for a comfier shoe than, say, a stiletto. Seriously.
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5. Block Heels
The block heel has been hanging around for a few seasons now, but it very much comes into its own when it comes to easing yourself into heel wearing. I have my eye on Bottega's glossy tangerine mules, which are sure to add feel-good vibes to your new-season capsule.
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