Anyone who knows me, will know that one of my obsessions is shoes – hence why they are getting a post all of their own! From boots, to heels, to slippers, I’ll cover them all in this post. If you have a shoe lover in your life then this is the gift list for you…or just for yourself, who’s to know?
Boots
I’ll start with a brand that I have mentioned many times before and that is of course, Fairfax & Favor. I have many pairs of shoes and boots from this brand and they have all been great quality as well as looking amazing. For a sturdy country boot, we all look to the trusty Explorers…comfortable, stylish and hard-wearing. However, this year I am lusting after the Shearling Lined Reginas which are almost like a hybrid of the Explorers and Reginas. First of all, they had me at shearling lined…my feet get SO COLD, and not just in the winter so footwear with a fleecy inside is 100% a winner for me. The outer part of these boots is made from pebbled nubuck leather and feature a thicker traction sole compared to the regular Reginas for a bit of extra grip. I would be absolutely delighted to find these under my tree this year! Personally, I love a high heel but I’ve always found country style footwear rarely offers a heel high enough for me. Enter The High Heeled Regina…no, they aren’t ridiculously high but for a country boot, these are right up my street and I LOVE them! Everything you could want from the original Regina but with a little extra oomph!
I can’t talk about boots without mentioning Dubarry – an absolute classic in country footwear. The Galway Country Boots are the OG Dubarry boots and are still going strong all these years later. Hard-wearing, comfortable and waterproof, these are the perfect boots for muddy walks and tricky terrain as well as a day out or trip to the shops. For something ever so slightly smarter, I’d go for the Sligo Country Boots. These have the same iconic look but with a full length zip and elasticated panel for a more fitted style.
Something I didn’t think I would be saying – Uggs are back…yep, I said it. The noughties classics are back in a big way and although I wasn’t up for it the first time, I am embracing them in all their glory. Rather than the tall versions which were everywhere last time around, I’d suggest the Classic Mini Boot. There’s not many boots that could pass off as outdoor shoes and a pair of slippers but I would be just as happy lounging around the house in these as I would traipsing around the shops. As for colour, you can’t beat classic Chestnut. If you find that the mini’s are still too tall for your liking, you could also go for the Classic Ultra Mini which are even dinkier but just as practical. Can’t decide? Just get both, why not?
For more of an evening boot, I’ve been eyeing up these AND/OR Suede Stiletto Ankle Boots. I love the Western detail, the black suede and the high heel…a decent amount of height but won’t kill your feet (unless you just can’t deal with heels, these won’t be for you). These would be perfect for a smart dinner or a night on the cocktails.
Shoes
When I think of flat shoes, my first thought are decks. I love a good pair of deck shoes…sturdy, comfortable and they can be dressed up or down. My favourite brand for deck shoes is Chatham and my favourites have to be from the G2 collection. They are SUCH classic designs! I have both the Bermuda Lady G2 and the Pippa II G2 and I absolutely love them both…super comfortable, hard wearing and they look gorgeous. However, one pair that I don’t own yet (emphasis on the ‘yet’) are the Deck Lady II G2 in Walnut. Surely nobody could be disappointed to receive these?
When it comes to casual comfort, I’ll return to Fairfax & Favor and point to the Henley’s. I will admit, when these first came out, I was not convinced on the style of these driving shoes…but once I wore them, I was completely converted. These shoes literally feel like slippers, I didn’t even need to wear them in. While it won’t be a surprise to hear that I am a fan of the classic tan, I also love the Jaguar version for something a little more out there.
One brand that I haven’t managed to get my hands on yet but have admired for years is World Secret Shoes…if you are looking for bright, colourful footwear, then this is the shop for you. I have been eyeing up these Twinkle Toes in the shade Berry…honestly, I think these might just be the cutest shoes I have ever seen and I just love the velvet bow detail. For something slightly less jazzy but just as bright, The Ikat Shoes are just as pretty and I love the Candyfloss Clouds (can you tell I like pink?) and Indigo Skies shades.
Trainers
Speaking of World Secret Shoes, how about these She Who Dares Sneakers? These colourful trainers are perfect for running around while still looking stylish. You won’t be surprised to hear that I love the pink shades, I think Pink Plovers might be my favourite but the blue Slush Puppies are also so bright and bold…To be honest, I’d be happy with any of them!
I’ve been very much into the chunky trainer vibe for a while now and one pair that I hated at first and am now fully on board with are the old school Fila Disruptor II Trainers. They’ve already been in out of style and back in again once so I’m sure if you keep them long enough, if they become unfashionable again, they’ll be back soon enough. I’m also kind of getting on board with the chunky trainers from Buffalo…they almost look like a hybrid between trainers and work boots…I thought they looked awful at first but I admit, they’ve grown on me. Bear with me, but I’m actually liking these Aspha Hyb Trainers in Peach and the Corn Low Platform Trainers in black. Are they in fashion? Honestly, I don’t even know anymore, but if you like them, who cares?
For an actual sporty pair of trainers, I always look at Asics before anywhere else. I love their bright designs, they fit well and I’ve always found that mine last for ages. My current pair are pretty worn out (I’ve had them for years) so I’m looking for a replacement pair. I’m not going to preach on about the best trainers to buy for whatever activity because I have no idea…I do a lot of running so I just go to the running trainers and then basically choose the nicest colour (is it just me or do colourful trainers help with motivation?) So my first thoughts are that I love these G2000 10 Lite-Show in pink (shock). Expensive yes, but when you find a brand of trainer that fits and lasts well, it’s usually worth the money. I also love the look of the Gel-Cumulus 24 and the Gel-Nimbus 24 – they are bright, colourful, hopefully comfortable and perfect for a workout.
Heels
Ah, my kryptonite…I have so many pairs of heels…all shapes and sizes and all colours of the rainbow. There’s just something about a towering pair of heels that I can’t resist. The first pair that I have my eye on and they are very spenny so I’m not getting my hopes up but if anyone else out there is super generous, these would make someone very happy! The Jimmy Choo Flaca Sandals caught my eye a few weeks ago and I haven’t been able to stop thinking about them since! I wouldn’t usually consider 100mm heels as I don’t find them high enough but these shoes are just so beautiful, I don’t even care. The pink velvet…the red bow detailing…EXQUISITE!
But let’s take the budget back down a bit shall we. I’ve seen a few people wearing some gorgeous sparkly, strappy sandals which would be perfect for silly season, so I’ve had a search and have found these beauts from Kurt Geiger. These Caged Ankle Heels look stunning and although they are skimpy, the straps will keep your feet locked into place. Plus they are currently 58% off and are a bargain at £59 (compared to the full price £139). I love the dainty sparkle detail on these and the nude colour means they will go with pretty much anything.
If you’d rather play it safe and go for something classic, you can’t go wrong with a pair of patent court shoes. They never date and if you choose classic black or nude, they will go with anything. These ASOS Design Stiletto Court Shoes are the perfect nude heels and are purse friendly at just £30. Although they are high, I always find these styles very comfortable and can usually last all night without taking them off. Alternatively, these KG Kurt Geiger Alyx3 are the perfect black option. Slightly pricier but currently 30% off at £69 rather than the usual £99. Another classic option that will (probably) never date and can be worn for years to come.
Slippers
Another favourite of mine…is there anything better than stuffing your feet into a fluffy pair of slippers at the end of the day? Just me? I will admit to being a fan of a pair of novelty slippers but more often than not, I’ve got my Ugg Scuffette II Slippers on, keeping my feet toasty warm. They are super fluffy, so nice and squishy to walk in and the keep my feet nice and cosy. They also look pretty cute too which always helps.
However, I have had my head turned by the Holland Cooper Shearling Slippers. They look very similar to the Ugg Scuffettes but have the HC gold pin on the front which just makes them look a little bit more luxe. The HC slippers come in Black and Tan, with a soft and fluffy shearling lining. Anyone will feel a little bit extra walking around the house in these.
Another brand which I have had my eye on is Laines London and the only reason I haven’t bought a pair of these is because I am so indecisive, I just can’t decide what design to go for! These slippers verge on novelty but aren’t are not too bold. I love their classic cross over design which are made from faux fur and feature fun designs on top. If like me, you love the royals then these Corgi & Royal Crown slippers are for you (or your royal loving friend). How cute is that detail?! Being a horse lover myself, I can’t not recommend this Horse Bit & White Horse pair and I also love these Gold Starfish & Lobster pair. Can you see why I’ve had such trouble trying to decide? There are so many designs, it would be almost impossible not to find something to suit everyone. I just can’t get enough of these!
So there’s my 2022 footwear gift guide, I hope it has provided some inspiration, whether as a gift for someone else or for yourself! I’ve definitely added a few of these to my Christmas list and am hoping Santa is going to be incredibly generous this year!
Until next time,
K x
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