By Rae Hadley
“You can never take too much care over the choice of your shoes. Too many women think that they are unimportant, but the real proof of an elegant woman is what is on her feet” – Dior.
Black was often deemed the only colour for ‘true elegance’ across the history of fashion. Focus on this ‘non-colour’ started during the early 1900s. The ‘shopgirl’ style was used as an edgy co-opting of class concepts and utility. It then took off in the mainstream. It recreated the glamour of the ‘newly fashionable’ and incredibly romantic world of black and white film.
Thankfully, times have changed, and black can now create elegant, rebellious, or edgy impressions. As can any other colour. Current fashion sense does not dictate that black is the only route to elegance. Ladies can rock out their style in whatever way. They can choose whichever colours they like. They look damn elegant, damn hot, or damn funky doing it.
There are many choices. The idea of wearing what you love with enough attitude to make the choir sing is compelling. However, there is something to be said about wearing a great pair of heels. Something about the elongated grace and poise that comes with the suddenly elevated status exudes glamour. The refined simplicity from the toes up speaks of understated, but unmistakable, calm confidence.
Fashion shows evolved into the vast spectacles in motion that they have become for a reason. The master of the show, Karl Lagerfeld, puts it better than anyone. “Elegance is an attitude, a way of moving.” You can be sure that putting on a beloved pair of masterfully crafted designer heels will magically synthesize elegance. Even those who profess to a sorry gracelessness are transformed as they walk. This transformation comes from the focus on style and the skill of designers. They bring out the best in every physical form.
With this ‘je ne sais quoi’ in mind, here are designer heels in non-black options. We are utterly in love with them. We are sure you will be too.
Prada
These gorgeous shoes, in geranium pink satin, with striking silver thunderbolts give a touch of freshness to your outfit. The innocent hue is juxtaposed with the bold strength of its statement heel. Show your “joie de vivre” by accenting the colour elsewhere in your outfit. Display your “laissez-faire” attitude while wearing your pride and joy to the office. You can also wear them out on a coffee date. You are sure to turn heads with these beauties.
Gucci
Retro, and almost nautical in style, these classics are the epitome of understatement and class. Fusing sportswear-inspired elements with modern chic, these slingback pumps are far from being an accessory; they are the main event. Combine them with classic tailoring. Use neutral or plain tones to create a visage of elegance and sophistication. This is a look which every woman can carry off with style and grace. We confess– we also love the gold bee motif. It has just the right combination of cute and classy.
Dior
These slingback pumps in burgundy “technical canvas”, have a 10cm heel, and are embellished with embroidered ribbon. They are masterpieces in subtlety. They make a beautiful “j’adior” statement. They do this without appearing to flash the designer label in anyone’s direction. The ribbon detail is stylish. The narrow sole is elegant. The timelessness of the heel is sure to have you stepping up to command the attention of those around you.
Jimmy Choo
The Kix100, patent leather, sexy booties in ‘latte’, have an edgy zip-back. They convert easily from daywear to night. This happens without the necessity for dark hues. A statement shoe that slims the ankle with its mesh front. It elongates the leg thanks to its contemporary 10cm asymmetrical heel. They are a stunning, versatile addition to any capsule wardrobe, and will subtly elevate your style, without bragging. These booties are the perfect combination of edgy chic, with just a nod to the old favourites.
Yves Saint-Laurent
If you want to make a statement –and YSL not– these sculptural heels provide that opportunity. Architectural heels are a big deal right now, and these elaborate on the recent trend with structural sophistication. The Opyum pumps in metallic shades of platinum or gold, strike that delicate balance between effortless, modern classics. They are also cutting-edge. Statement pieces like these will be the main focus of any special occasion outfit for years to come. Sporting a striking 11cm heel, they demonstrate your fashion house allegiance. They are also available in a luxurious, glossy patent leather ‘latte’.
Be Brash. Be Bold. Be Beautiful. Be You.
In addition to these elegant classics, our other favourite trends are cutting a dash on the runways in recent months. These trends include animal print from Brandon Maxwell. There is also a gorgeous patent shine from Christian Louboutin. Finally, there are matching tights and shoe combos from Anna Sui. Changing seasons have us looking forward to making bold statements with vibrant colours and playful textures as well.
Elegance is an attitude, not a wardrobe or accessory item, but a little assistance in that direction never hurt. As Coco Chanel proclaimed, “A woman with good shoes is never ugly.” So, if she nodded in that direction. The creator of the ‘Little Black Dress’ nodded in that direction, well who am I to argue? Get me to the shoe shop, post haste!