Style Q & A: Heels for a Flat-Lover

I put out a call on fb and twitter for any style questions you'd like to see answered here and to start things off is a question from my friend Nancy, a fellow redhead and Islander to boot! She is a big fan of flats, and doesn't feel quite so comfortable in heels. Her main question? Looking for a pretty pair of easy-to-wear heels that go with everything from workwear to skinny jeans to skirts and dresses.

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I chose some different heel types and styles to give an idea what to look for if a towering stiletto is not your thing (I love 'em, but they are hard to wear sometimes).

One - Okay, I admit that this isn't a completely flat platform sandal (or flat-form as they are sometimes called) but it is pretty darn close. These are a great option for a bit of height with lots of comfort, since it almost feels like you're wearing flats with such a gentle rise.  I personally love this pair from Madewell, but this is a fun shape to look for, especially in summer

Two - This is a much  more pronounced platform, so a fair bit more height here. But fear not! These are can still be really easy to wear because they are generally wider (read: more stable) on the sole and are also easy on the feet!

Three - A classic black heel is a must-have. Of all of these, this is  the one that will literally go with everything. You really can't go wrong.  I picked a sturdy heel version from the folks at Seychelles - you'll feel much more firmly planted than in a stiletto.

Four - The low-mid heel. Not too high, this is a good choice for ladies not used to towering at great heights who still want a bit of a lift. The low heel on these makes them a comfortable style with many fabulous options to choose from, for example the wide selection at Aldo.

Five - Wedges! These have (in most, but not all cases) a stable heel that makes for easy walking and relative comfort although in this Kate Spade pair, the lack of platform at the ball of the foot might make these a pair to get used to.

Six - Last but certainly not least, these will probably be the pick of choice for my flat-loving friend. The hidden heel! A hidden wedge gives the tiniest bit of height without sacrificing any of the comfort. If you want to test the waters, this is the perfect shoe for you.

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I thought I also should throw in a few ideas for flats that are equally versatile, and make up my favourite must-have shoe styles.

One - Ballet Flats! I cannot sing the praises of these enough. I would have a rainbow array of colours if I could but the first two shades to choose if you're adding these to your shoe collection would be black and nude.

Two - Black flats. The ultimate style chameleon, these go with everything. I picked a patent J Crew pair here, but I have had black flats in various incarnations and worn them until they are literally falling apart (I have a tough time saying goodbye to favourite shoes, ok?). Wardrobe staple! 


Three - Pretty details! Flats are pretty simple, but if you can find a pair with a simple detail - whether it is a pretty scalloped edge like this Chloé pair, bright colours, tassels or whatever your heart desires, a special detail can add interest!

Four - Oxfords! A classic. These have had a resurgence in the past few years it seems, and are, in my opinion, timeless. In traditional neutral leather, or as seen above in a fun purple suede, or even in gold metallic as seen in the Joe Fresh Fall 2011 collection - these are a great addition to any shoe collection that you'll wear for ages.


Five - And finally the penny loafer. I have a lovely basic black pair (Thanks Ale!) that I wear constantly - they are the perfect librarian shoe after all - but fun colours like this minty pair from Asos make for a fresh take on an old favourite.

Have a burning style question that you'd like answered? Leave me a comment, 

Send me a tweet, a message on facebook or pop me a quick email and I'd be 

happy to feature your question in my next Style Q & A post. Let me know!