There are some shoes that are good for the soul. I am a shoe addict, so there may be more shoes in my house that have this calmative effect than in most people’s closets – but even ignoring my compulsive addiction I insist that sometimes a pair of wonderful shoes can make you feel brilliant.
There are the shoes that are all about sex. About the delicate curve of your ankle, the swinging rhythm of your hips, the flash of glossy red nail varnish on your toes. The sole you see reflected in the mirror above your head when you get down and dirty.
There are the shoes that may not do much for your love interest, but which simply make you feel wonderful. Chunky platforms that give you height to take over the world, cute sparkling ballerinas that make you feel like a princess with every step, and works of art that you feel honoured to be able to wear.
There are, of course, the shoes that may not look that great, but which make your life easier and allow you to relax. A pair of shining waterproof wellies keeping out the cold, or the cosy falling apart trainers that you wear for long walks.
My favourite shoes at the moment span these categories. They make me take a deep breath in every time, and they make my soul feel that everything is good in the world. These, my dears, are my heroin, and I would take them intravenously if it was physically possible!
Pumps
I have to start with Louboutins. Although I generally don’t “get” designer clothes, Louboutin shoes send me into fits of delight every time that I see them. Sex shoes, work shoes, power shoes and party shoes – the Lady Page patent beauties tick all the boxes, and one day I promise I will own some for myself!
Platform Heels
Irregular Choice do sometimes get it oh-so-wrong, but with the Kim Oh No Polka-dot platform heels they have hit the nail on the head, and created something fun, funky and gorgeous. Polka-dots always calm my troubled soul, and the cosy interior means they are actually comfy too. I shall be looking out for these babies on eBay…
Ruffled Flats
Princesses don’t have to wear heels, which is why I have always dreamed about a cute pair of ballet flats. I don’t fit in these early (I presume my feet are wonky), but if this nude ruffled pair from Barratts fitted I would have them in a snap. Despite constantly being described with such terms as “on-trend”, they are the sort of thing that will actually go with lots, from ball gowns to skinny jeans!
Mary Janes
Finally, a pair of red heels. These soothe the soul like no other. You know that when you wear your red shoes no harm can befall you, as all you have to do is click your heels and you will be home. These red patent Mary Janes are my favourite, from Beatrix Ong, but I think generally high street versions are just as nice! They will breathe some life back into you from the moment you slip them onto your feet!