At September's fashion shows, a shocking trend emerged. And we're not talking about pants as a legitimate choice of evening wear here. The trend that had everybody talking was the return of the sensible shoe. Following seasons of vertiginous stilettos, "vagina-high" boots and bondage-style strappies of the style most often seen in Stringfellows, the message is: forget higher, strappier, fiercer; think lower, flatter, comfier.
Not only did the fashion crowd's footwear of choice (Isabel Marant studded ankle boots, for those who could get their hands on them) reflect the new wave, but designers heralded it for next season, too. Marc Jacobs sent his Louis Vuitton models down the catwalk in shoes inspired by Uggs, clogs and Patrick Cox Wannabes. And then there is the return of the kitten heel. Last seen on catwalks circa 1992, since then available only in LK Bennett, and now suddenly at Missoni, Marni and Giles.
Like all sea changes, the sensible-shoe revolution has its roots in the wishes of the masses. Alexa Chung and her Brit It-girl followers have been wearing brogues and loafers for months. Thanks to its Crepe Suzette patent loafers (a bargain at £45), Clarks is now a fashion destination. Biker boots are a must-have and desert boots this autumn's comeback queens. And then there are cuban heels, a reclaimed staple. Worn daily by Claudia Schiffer (hers are by Marant, again), they are the footwear of choice for women who want a bit of height, just enough trend and a whole lot of comfort. It's doable, comfortable fashion that really can be worn every day. And who can complain about that? Here's how to work the look.
THE KITTEN HEEL
For the updated version, take your cue from Giles and pair the brightest of colours with bad-ass outfits. Make it sexy rather than sloaney pony.
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Suede and patent-leather courts, £145, from LK Bennett. Leopard-print shoes, £360, by Jimmy Choo
THE GO-ANYWHERE FLAT
Work a bit of Brit chic in brogues and loafers. Wear with everything from prom dresses to pea coats. Jewelled flats work best with trousers.
Studded black leather pumps, £89, from Reiss. Green loafers with chain detail, £32, from Urban Outfitters. White leather pumps with buckles, £90, from Topshop Boutique. Leather lace-up shoes, £100, from KG by Kurt Geiger
THE MID-HEIGHT HEEL
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Bare legs keep these shoes less Sophie Wessex, more Chloë Sevigny. Or, make like Balmain and wear them with cropped trousers for a rock-chick look.
Patent-leather Bayswater pumps, £295, by Mulberry. Grey court shoes, £20, from New Look. Blue cut-out courts, £55, from Topshop. Patent-leather courts with frill detail, £40, from Topshop
THE BRILLIANT BOOT
Inspired by Isabel Marant, we're talking low-heeled styles that are both ladylike and biker. Those that finish just above the ankle are the most flattering.
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Black studded boots, £65, from Mango. Tan leather boots, £395, by Zadig & Voltaire; 020 7792 8788. Suede boots, £150, from Pied a Terre. Black boots with zips, £139, from Zara