Women's Footwear FAQs

Finding footwear that balances style, comfort, and durability shouldn't feel complicated. Whether you're building a capsule collection or searching for specific styles, these answers cover the questions that come up most often.

What styles should every woman own?

Start with versatile foundations that work across multiple contexts. Black boots pair with everything from jeans to dresses, creating cohesion across your wardrobe without feeling predictable. Brown boots add warmth to autumn styling and work beautifully with earth tones that dominate cooler months. Loafers for women bridge the gap between smart and comfortable, handling both professional settings and weekend errands. Black shoes in leather provide polish for occasions that demand more formality, whilst quality trainers handle casual days without sacrificing style. Build from these core pieces based on your lifestyle needs and climate, adding specialised styles as specific occasions demand them.

How do I choose between different boot heights?

Boot height changes both the practical function and visual impact of your outfit. Ankle boots work with nearly everything and suit year-round wear, providing flexibility without commitment to any particular aesthetic. Knee high styles create sleeker silhouettes with skirts and dresses whilst offering more coverage and warmth during colder months. Mid-calf styles fall somewhere between, though they can visually shorten legs depending on where they hit your calf. Consider your typical outfits and whether you're prioritising versatility or specific occasions. Taller boots generally pair better with streamlined bottoms, whilst shorter styles accommodate wider trouser legs more successfully.

Which trainers work for both casual and smart-casual?

Leather trainers in neutral colours transition most successfully between casual and smarter contexts. Premium leather styles look polished with tailored trousers or midi dresses, whilst chunky running trainers rarely work outside genuinely casual settings. Minimalist designs without excessive branding or technical detailing maintain sophistication across different environments. Brands like Veja offer cleaner aesthetics that work in more refined environments, whilst retro-inspired options from New Balance balance comfort with style. Avoid worn or dirty trainers in smart-casual contexts regardless of the original design quality, as condition matters more than the specific brand or model.

What heel height is most comfortable for all-day wear?

Comfort varies significantly based on foot structure, but block heels under 7cm generally provide the most stability for extended wear. Styles with wider bases distribute weight more evenly than stilettos, reducing pressure on the ball of your foot. Kitten heels offer subtle height with minimal strain, whilst platforms provide perceived height without the same angle. Consider the occasion: standing events require more support than seated dinners. Heels with ankle straps prevent sliding forward, and cushioned insoles make considerable difference regardless of heel height. If you're new to heels, start lower and gradually increase height as your feet adapt to the different posture required for balanced walking.

How do I care for different materials?

Different materials demand specific approaches to maintain their condition and appearance. Leather benefits from regular conditioning to prevent cracking, whilst suede requires protective sprays and careful brushing to lift the nap. Canvas can usually handle gentle machine washing, but check manufacturer guidance first. For walking and hiking boots, clean after each muddy outing and reapply waterproofing treatment seasonally to maintain their protective qualities. Patent leather wipes clean easily but scratches permanently, so handle with care. Synthetic materials vary widely in durability and care requirements depending on their specific composition. Store all footwear in a cool, dry place with proper support to maintain shape, and rotate pairs regularly to extend their lifespan and allow materials to recover between wears.

When should I size up or down?

Sizing decisions depend on the specific style and how you plan to wear it. Trainers should feel snug without pinching, with roughly half an inch of space at the toe for natural foot expansion during walking. Boots worn with thick socks may need half a size up, whilst summer sandals should sit flush without your foot hanging over the edge. Leather stretches with wear, so a close initial fit often works, whilst synthetic materials maintain their original dimensions. If you're between sizes, consider the shoe's purpose: formal occasions suit a more precise fit, whilst casual styles can accommodate slight looseness. Width matters as much as length, so look for brands offering different width fittings if you consistently struggle with standard sizes.