Dare We Mention Spring/Summer Ankle Boots?
Looking at the Catwalks around the world at the minute, it seems that ankle boots are still hitting all the right notes – which is perfect for us in NI. Our weather very much dictates that boots are an absolute staple, must-have on hand basically all year round thanks to our ‘four seasons in one day’ style climate! Boots are now not just a ‘winter style, wear with our jeans’ kind of thing – you now team them with dresses, skirts, shorts and not just during festival season. This is a trend that isn’t just reserved for supermodels and the uber trendy; we can all get in on the action!
First up is Lizzie from Tamaris and WOWSERS – I love! This is a definite must have for your shoe rack. What works here is the clearly simple and classic design. The rich suede upper is offset by a colour matching stretch inset which makes for easy on/off and adds extra comfort. A delicate, soft floral motif adorns the heel cup without being too in your face. A thick wooden block heel adds a welcome posture boost whilst allowing for all day wear. Take your pick from taupe or rich navy finishes, and team them with your dresses and mini skirts (or jeans/skirts and tights in the cooler weather!).
XTI Theresa – now these are a huge hitter! The AW version of these was a style that we just couldn’t keep on our shelves and Theresa is proving very similar! The nude and taupe finishes make these super versatile for the incoming season, whilst the croc-like metallic print at the heel adds a wee bit of detail. I love the block stacked heel on these as it makes them so much easier walked in compared to a stiletto as you get better balance. These feature a false decorative zip on the outside and a workable zip on the inside for easy on/off. Either of the two colour ways will work perfectly with your spring/summer wardrobe as the soft finishes will tone in nicely with the pastel colours that are in the high street stores at the minute.
If you prefer a slightly lower heel then look no further than Jana Tina. These are a great boot for everyday wear to team with your skinnies or skirts. They are a lovely height at the ankle, and the small block heel gives you just a nice wee lift up. The soft suede effect upper teamed with the snake and metallic hints at the heel give subtle details without over powering the boot. Make sure and check out the cushioned foot bed with built in contoured arch support and the Soft Flex sole unit allows maximum flexibility with every step. Jana is an absolutely fab brand if you have a slightly broader foot as they are made in an ‘H’ fitting which means they are wider fitting through the front and toe joints therefore giving you extra comfort.
S. Oliver Brianne is a continued style from AW17 which I just can’t forget to mention. These are the perfect accompaniment to those dresses and skirts as they are the neatest little short ankle boot. They cut perfectly round the ankle bone, so pop on a pair of low ankle socks and a bit of tan and you are good to go. The double strap detailing gives this little boot a slight Western feel about it whilst the metal rivet feature adds a bit of a contrast against the soft upper. Available in black or a peppery colour, these have a soft foam cushioned insole for added comfort. I love these.
Jean from Fabulous Fabs is the most super every day ankle boot. Available in black and taupe (more of a grey), these will service all your skinny jeans. The brushed suede effect upper features a worn toe cap look which I love as I find they look the part for longer. A simple stud detail collar wraps around the ankle whilst a small flat block heel make them great for all day wear. An inside zip allow for easy on/off. There is a lovely soft cushioned inner lining in these that I find just adds to the comfort. These are definitely a wardrobe staple that you really need for S/S 18 (and a bonus is that they will carry you right through the autumn into the winter and back again!) Bargain! One boot for all seasons!
I know some of us can’t wait to get out of our boots and into our sandals, but as I look out into more snow and ice, I just simply want to stay in my boots for a while longer – all I want is to upgrade them to a softer, more ‘new season, in season’ kind of pair! Any excuse for new shoes, hey?!