We’re all aware, or at least should be, that the menswear-as-womenswear trend soldiers on and androgyny is all the rage at the moment. But there’s always something that gives us pause about the present passions. The hurdle here? Footwear.
Frankly, the question is how can we rock the gent-inspired look feet-first, without looking a bit off?
Heeled loafers, flat loafers and military-inspired boots are all good examples of how to bring some boyish flair for your footwear and still stay fashionable. But the most important element is the fit—don’t dare think about going too boxy, square or large. And tie your shoelaces!
Also, make sure there’s a tiny bit of appropriate girly detailing—like embossed or perforated leather, slight heels and lightly pointed toes, delicate touches like fringe or studs, platform soles, ladylike laces and so forth. That way you won’t look like you borrowed your dad’s clodhoppers.
Boots are always fashionable, but don’t go bananas with the storm trooper thing. We all love pop stalwart Robyn, but those platform moon boots are, well, special… And as a gentle reminder, we’re not pop stars, so let’s be sensible here.
Go for gritty but not dirty. There are loads of boots out there that are distinctly feminine but still have masculine origins. Think of the motorcycle and military trends, for starters.
Loafers are easy, since they’re ubiquitous and go with a lot of things. A rounded toe or a vaguely pointed one is more feminine, as well as a slightly elevated back heel. Walk on, working women!
