Thursday 3 October 2013

The shoes as a statement? Discuss...

These days its impossible to walk down the high street without being bombarded with the latest trends, fashions and 'must haves'. 

One thing I have noticed of late is the vast variety of 'Statement' shoes on the shelves. In my opinion they are no longer practical clothing to stop you getting your feet wet! They have become the central point of many fashion statements. For example, the world famous shoe designer Manolo Blahnik astounded his audience at his London Fashion Week presentation this year. 

The incredible array of colours and innovative designs twined with expert craftsmanship, culminates together to produce some of the most 'out there' shoes. Blahnik designs have graced the feet of many a celebs in the past, becoming a regular shoes choice for those such as Rihanna and Sarah Jessica Parker. Looking at the bright contrasting colours and bold graphic stitching, I have no doubt in saying these will be the next shoes joining many peoples collections.

However, if your anything like me you cant afford a pair of designer shoes for every day of the week. So here is a few brands that might be worth looking at....

1. Irregular Choice: 
IC was first born in 1999 with its first shop being opened in covent Garden by Designer and owner Dan Sullivan. Over the years the designs have got bigger, better,  and bolder. On todays selves you can find shoes ranging from 'Bashfull Brenda' heals to 'Fraggle' flats. If you are in need of a shoe to stand out from the crowd, IC is defiantly worth a look. And the guys shoes are awesome too! Seriously Gents, if you need to get the attention of a 'certain person', Irregular Choice is the way to do it!

2. Asos:
I was a bit dubious at first when told to check out the shoes on asos. I figured they would be just like any other big brand, but boy was I wrong. Asos have a huge range of boots, flats, heal, and everything in between. At very reasonable prices! And not only do they sell their own designs, but they also sell may different independent brands. My suggestion is if you're not too sure what you want, check out Asos. Its sure to give you loads of ideas.

And last but not least...

3. Primark!!!
I know, I actually said Primark! The thing is, if you are on a bit of an economy drive, but you need that killer set of ladies heels or lads loafers for a party everyone is going to, Primark aren't too bad!!! They will never be the comfiest pair of shoes you will own, but for all intent and purpose they do the job. I have found that Primark are copy cats with lower prices. They take big brand designs, make their own copy and sell them at a fraction of the price. They stock everything, and if you can put up with the mess and crowds you are bound to find something to finish off that awesome outfit.

I have given you a few options, but please don't take these as the only ones. There are loads of different independent shops that would appreciate your custom. So don't discard the idea of a shop you have never heard of, it may just stock the most amazing little secrets. Also the 'Shoe as a statement' thing is not set in stone, its just something that has been buzzing around for a while. If you're not into it, then don't panic. Maybe try a fabulous coat or a statement jumper to make your mark on your own fashion style. And most of all... Have fun with it, you never know you may just be starting the next trend!

JM
x