Introduction
When it comes to putting our best foot forward, pitfalls are a plenty. After months of travelling (and a distinct lack of self-respect), I’m a real victim when it comes to unacceptable footwear; Converse that look like they’ve been dragged from a burning home, Vans so tattered you could see my big toe and a pair of desert boots that had the soles glued on by Pritt Stick. Forgive me FashionBeaners, for I have sinned. In my not-so-wise twenty-three years, I’ve managed to learn a little bit about trusted footwear choices and the importance of keeping them smart. My days of sartorial recklessness are almost behind me, but in a bid to keep on the straight and narrow, I sought the advice of the females in my life. That’s right fellas, it’s this month’s Girl’s Eye View: Footwear Choices. We’ve had what the ladies hate, we’ve had their seasonal favourites and now it’s time to garner some opinion on what we put on the end of our trotters. From hi-tops to loafers, Derbies to plimsolls, we’re given more and more choice every single season, but how do the fairer sex judge this new burgeoning selection of treads? Needless to say, I’ve learnt (and suffered) a lot at the hands of my dearest female friends but after picking their brains, here’s what I got back. Proceed with caution.
Suz, 28, Copywriter ? The Brogue
A stickler for all things with an Old World aesthetic, my colleague Suz states: “I think brogues are the smartest choice; sophisticated and romantic. Guys look like they’ve made a real effort and even if everything else in the look is a travesty, all else is forgiven with a good pair of shoes.” Whilst not all ladies are quite as soft as Suz, I think we can all agree on the strengths of a solid pair of brogues. They’ve been on the fashion radar for years now and with new, innovative takes, there’s no sign of this silhouette waning. I’d recommend sticking to more traditional styles: round-toes, eyelet detailing and in a strong shade of brown. Perfect.
Lookbook Inspiration
Key Styles
Jess, 25, Nurse ? The Desert Boot
Rugged, classic and traditionally well crafted, Jess is a sucker for the desert boot. “They’re manly without trying too hard ? like Indiana Jones without that weird whip. A good pair of suede boots goes with anything and makes it look like you’ve got at least half a clue about fashion.” Whether you opt for Ben Sherman, Clarks Originals or another high street option, they are a real investment. Many men I know have taken the plunge with the desert boot and simply never looked back. Picking the right colour can be tricky, though. Black goes with nearly everything but lacks outdoor appeal; dark brown and navy are versatile but jar against staple black denim. Our advice? Buy two pairs Opt for tan – they will pair effortlessly with everything in your wardrobe and have a fun, playful edge that is perfectly suited to the weekend and nights out.
Lookbook Inspiration
Key Styles
- River Island Black Lace Up Desert Boots
- Desert Boot Wolf
- Suede Desert Boots In Beige
- Clarks Originals Suede Desert Boots
- He By Mango Suede Desert Boots
- Mark Mcnairy Suede Desert Boots
- Ben Sherman Clegg Suede Desert Boots
- Asos Desert Boots In Leather
- Tods No_code Crepe-sole Leather Desert Boots
Final Word
So there you have it, our ladies’ run down of the top contemporary footwear styles. It’s true that a pair of battered kicks can ruin even the strongest of looks and choosing (and looking after) a decent set is essential. From thousand pound price tags to budget high street versions, scour the retail world high and low for your perfect pair. Lacing up should be a pleasure, not a chore. What do you think of the opinions in this edition of Girl’s Eye View? Any additions? Complaints? Agreements? We’re all ears…