5 minute read
BEST FOOT FORWARD Shoe style
STEP INTO SPRING
Banish traditional footwear and embrace bright block colours to take you from office to nights out, writes Oonagh Turner
The biggest SS22 collections and trends are beginning to trickle down into the market and now, as we enter spring, is the time to start shopping them. Prepping your footwear for warmer days should be at the forefront of your fashion to-dos. So too should rebooting your shoe style upon your return to the office with something fresh and new, not to mention banishing those fluffy slippers and comfy Crocs under your bed once and for all.
BOLD DESIGN
Vibrant clashing colourways are head-totoe this spring and summer, and that’s not exclusive to clothing – a pop of bright colour on your feet is an easy way to achieve impact. Think bright green, canary yellow and orange. “SS22 is set to be bright and bold and we love that, being a pioneer of bright colour ourselves with our signature neon orange branding and zingy leather colours,” says Tracey Neuls of the eponymous fashion house. “Art, sculpture, and the environment are also particular zany inspirations for us. Our Magritte Boots were born of a Rene Magritte painting – The Red Model. The SS22 version of this boot is a hot pink bubblegum colour. It is nice to invest in the story behind each design.” At Dear Frances, the all time bestseller, the Park Boot will be launching soon in new exciting colours, and the Tye Slide is looking to sell out in all colourways.
GOODIE-TWO SHOES From top to bott om: The Atti co Perine metallic heels, £680; Soon to be released GEEK platf orm in hot pink by Tracey Neuls, £295; Veja’s new collaborati on with Marni, £265. Previous page: Haus of Honey bright wedges have just come to Browns, £650
GOING OUT-OUT
The ultimate party shoe, the platform, is also back in a big way as seen on London’s catwalks in February, with designers incorporating platforms with stilettoes for the daring fashionista. “Sexy dressing was the most popular trend on this season’s runways and we’re really seeing this translate into footwear, most likely as a tonic to the comfort dressing of the pandemic,” finds Hollie Harding, buying manager at Browns Mayfair. “We’re noticing heel heights rising in skyscraper platform party heels. Our customer is very much looking for that ‘out-out’ shoe, with embellished and expressive party styles very much in demand,” she adds. For those not quite at platform level, a sandal with a big sole, a chunky loafer or mule is a comfortable alternative to platforms. “Haus of Honey – a new brand to Browns – has some really fun bright sandals,” says Harding. Creative director of Dear Frances, Jane Frances, also advises on dressy flats, strappy sandals or mid heels. “As long as they have a chic and pared back finish with elevated details such as high shine and extra-fine straps.”
COMFORT MEETS STYLE
Spring footwear must be ready for all eventualities and weather conditions. Fashion collections for SS22 were big on the boot this February, with pointed knee-high boots a fun new take on the seasonal staple, alluding to 90s fashion, a trend that seems to show no signs of abating. Meanwhile, fashion sneakers are still proving popular, marrying style and comfort. “Shoes that can segue from day into night with ease and still make a statement are what we want,” says Tracey Neuls. A survey conducted by online footwear retailer, Sole Bliss, found that 75 per cent of women say they won’t be wearing heels when they return to the office. In response, the brand launched their own trainer collection in 2021, the Miracle Trainer, with a smart platform and cushioning support. Meanwhile, the popular Veja continues its dominance in the fashion trainer market, bringing pop colours with a new collaboration with the fashion house, Marni. L
Seeking family homes
While you enjoy your holiday, your London family home can earn an income through onefinestay
Are you a London homeowner with a beautiful family home that is left unoccupied when you take your family away during the holidays? onefinestay can turn your home into a source of additional income while you’re out of town, helping your holidays to pay for themselves. Its first class service provides total ease and peace of mind that allows for a stress-free, flexible and secure short-term rental experience unlike any other. In more than 50 global locations, onefinestay offers discerning guests the finest homes and service, giving them the opportunity to make precious memories in beautifully curated homes; from family escapes and city breaks to once in a lifetime trips. onefinestay is actively seeking new London homes, with a particular interest in three-plus bedrooms. Take advantage of huge demand by US guests from now onwards, and start earning this summer.
A family home in central London, for example, has earned its homeowner £50,000 in less than six months. onefinestay’s expert pricing team will make sure you get the most from every stay with dynamic pricing based on weekly demand data.
Worried about fitting the work for short term rental into a busy family life? Don’t be, the onefinestay end-to-end service takes all the stress out of leaving your home. A trusted team takes care of check-in, maintenance, cleaning and concierge. Guests are all vetted and adhere to strict policies when staying, so you have peace of mind that your home is in the safe hands of discerning travellers like you. Your account manager will engage with you to maximise revenue, occupancy and guest satisfaction.
The security of your home is a top priority. A photographic audit is carried out and valuables are fully inventoried and locked away during the stay and replaced right where you left them to ensure a seamless return home.
Here’s what one onefinestay homeowner has to say: “Having been both a guest and now a homeowner, our experience has been completely fi ve stars on both sides.”
List your London home today. For further details email london.homes@onefinestay.com. Alternatively, call us on 0203 588 0600 or scan the QR code.
