Of all the countries in the world, we Brits are known for our laid-back, fashion-forward take on dressing, and just about every major trend to come from the capital city in the last few years has gone global (and kickstarted a few hashtags in the process). From city-girl normcore to countryside cottagecore, whichever tribe you identify with, British women have always known how to make fashion functional. But, no matter your style, theres one piece in particular that speaks to just about everybody and it just so happens to be one that British women are particularly taken with too.
It’s no coincidence that many of the bestselling and most-sought after pieces over the last few months have been shoes. From designer gems (Prada and Gucci, we’re looking at you), to high-street heroes (who better than M&S?) Londoners have invested heavily in seasonal chunky Chelsea boots and party-ready heels, but no matter where you look up and down the country, you’ll always spot an outfit elevating shoe that was carefully planned.
From The Row’s minimalist Zipped 1 Boots to Birkenstock’s ultra-comfy clogs, the shoes I see time and again on my commute to the Who What Wear office got me thinking about which brands in particular are British bestsellers, so I took to Instagram to find the shoes that social medias most stylish are investing in now, and the results might surprise you.
As we head further into the depths of winter, top performing categories are without a doubt the flat shoe (loafers, trainers and ballet pumps score highly), and of course, the boot (namely ankle and knee-high). So, which brands are best at nailing these trending styles? I’ve put together a handy round up of the 8 high street, mid-range and designer footwear brands that Brit girls are shopping now, so now all you have to do is decide what to wear them with.
Style Notes: Sorry Adidas, every is wearing New Balance right now. With waiting lists for new drops, and just about every influencer owning a pair of the formally “dad sneakers”, New Balance has reinvented itself as the cool-girls trainer of choice for casual wear. I love Hedvig Opshaug’s tonal take on styling trainers, and by layering up cashmere, the look automatically feels more expensive than leisurewear.
Style Notes: We’ll never get tired of a timeless loafer, and Hermès’ polished take on slip-ons, chunky soles and mules makes anything less look scruffy. While everyone is distracted by looking at the glossy, black loafers, allow me to turn your attention to the shearling lined mules, a cosy, informal alternative for lazy weekends.
Berlin-based brand aeyde was founded in 2015 by Luisa Dames. Inspired by a stripped back, German take on modern minimalism, the collection is best known for combining form and function with clean lines, wearable heels and premium quality fabrics. The influencers’ shoe of choice? Any black ankle boot with a sculptural heel.
Style Notes: Although technically not a footwear brand, we can’t talk about shoes that Brits are wearing now without mentioning The Row. If its not their zip-up flatform boot, it’ll be their simple ballet pumps, and Monikh is the first person we consult when it comes to styling these chic styles.
Style Notes: You won’t be surprised to find out that London based brand Neous are inspired by the architectural principle “less is more” when designing their slick shoes and bags. Dressed down with shoes or styled up with a slip dress, you’ll always spot Neous on the feet of understated and stylish dressers with a penchant for tailoring.
Style Notes: Chances are, if you’ve seen a pair of Mary Janes recently, they could be from Carel. The French brand nails the effortlessly elegant Parisian style we’ve been taking notes on, and adds a little je ne sais quoi. The hero style is without a doubt the Alice pump (also available in 4 different colours), its the perfect pairing to a turtleneck, mini skirt and tights–our favourite cold-weather outfit combination right now.
Style Notes: Dear Frances can count Margot Robbie, Gigi & Bella Hadid, Kendall & Kylie Jenner, Kaia Gerber, Hailey Bieber, Selena Gomez, Zoe Kravitz, Emma Roberts and Sienna Miller as celeb fans, and it’s easy to see how they’ve racked up such an impressive following. Made in small batches by artisan shoemakers in Italy, you can expect each new release to touch on their core principles–luxury craftsmanship, classical design, and versatility.
Style Notes: Yes, those Hunter boots and no they don’t just make wellies (although they are particularly good at them). After fashionable stints at Glastonbury on the feet of Kate Moss and Alexa Chung, Hunter boots became synonymous with countryside-cool, but they’ve got plenty of city-ready styles too, just ask Camille Charriere.
Style Notes: From the high street to Who What Wear cover stars, we’re all obsessed with Russell & Bromley as of late. and it might have something to do with the fact the brand is putting out some of its best shoes ever just in time for Christmas. Whether you’re in need of a sturdy winter boot or a glitzy party heel, you’re guaranteed to find it at Russell & Bromley, and you’ll treasure them for years to come.
Style Notes: Kurt Geiger have been putting the “fun” into functional for decades now, so it’s only right that some of our favourite statement dressers are cottoning onto the brand too. There is nowhere to find colourful, attention-grabbing and comfortable shoes on the high street, and if you’re looking for accessible takes on runway trends–Kurt is your man. Take the fuss out of outfit planning this party season and try our easy formula. A simple, all black outfit + a pair of bold Kurt Geiger heels = a winning combination.
