The At-Home Shoes You Need

The At-Home Shoes You Need

Former fashion director at Tatler and revered stylist Anna Bromilow knows a thing or two about chic footwear. And while glamorous heels may not be a priority right now, that doesn’t mean you can’t give some thought to your at-home look. Here, she shares the slippers and flats worth having on your radar…
Image: @ANNA_BROMILOW

Slippers is not a word anyone would normally associate with fashion and on-trend style – but comfortable footwear is definitely having a moment. In fact, the 'indoor/outdoor shoe' seems to be the only type of footwear I’m currently browsing online.

Of course, it goes without saying that current circumstances have hugely impacted everyone's everyday style and buying habits. While Covid-19 rages, leisurewear is king. Luxury, high-end brands have naturally reacted to a shift in demand and in terms of footwear, what could be more appealing than the snuggest of shoes? We’ve all felt the benefit of looking (and therefore feeling) a little more put together while WFH, but I don't know anyone who would sit on a Zoom call wearing heels. The luxe home shoe is the answer.

Relaxed, bold flats were however, already in full swing before the world was tipped on its head. This pandemic has accentuated the trend and taken it one step further. The flat mule, originally in the form of Gucci's iconic Princetown, was everywhere a couple of years ago. I was an early convert and fell for their chic, slightly whacky, easy style. During the summer, I barely wear anything other than sliders – their easy style and leg lengthening effect is second to none.

Lockdown social media has been awash with images of Birkenstocks and socks – and it's this notion of blurring the lines between inside-outside style use that's piqued my interest. Shoes that are multipurpose, comfortable and offer designer appeal – the good news is an enticing line up of luxe brands are extending their collections to cater. There are three main trends to look out for – shearling, boudoir and monogram.

Shearling has obvious Scandi appeal and in terms of wearability, is generally most desirable in a classic cream. Daily Sleeper, who so cleverly played on the idea of versatile lifestyle dressing with pyjamas so covetable they have now become party classics, have created a stunning and wide-ranging slipper collection – the Lulu, with its pompom detailing and square toe, is heaven. A simple mule is also on offer (and if bright colours are more your thing, they really do deliver with Pucci-inspired pink, red and orange). High-end Italian brand Aquazzura also have a varied, covetable selection; the Foxy Slide is the strongest shearling design around, with its large decorative pompom. Stockholm brand Flattered have a chunky cross over sandal at a good price point and it's also worth checking out ATP Atelier for a similar style in off white, grey and black. Jigsaw's simple mule is also a classic choice, and well-priced. Shearling works brilliantly with cable knit and romantic skirt or go all out with a cashmere tracksuit, adding socks for added comfort.

Alternatively, monogram branded shoes are back with a vengeance and make for a bold, fashion-forward investment. Gucci's wool loafers became some of the most sought after shoes of the season and they have produced a couple of versions of mule slippers – one in rich velvet with diamante trim and the other in a trademark horse bit style. Fendi's fur logo slippers are fabulous and have a clever collapsable heel. But if these price tags are proving a little extreme, the Holly Slipper by Coach offers the same heritage effect in rich tan and brown. Denim or leather is a perfect combination with monogram – particularly a jumpsuit. Also don't be scared to use them as a neutral print; they work just like leopard, and clash brilliantly with florals.

If you are seriously missing some glamour in your life and craving all things high fashion, the boudoir slipper is the style for you. Think maribu, diamante, velvet and embellishment. They’re the kind of slipper you’ll be wearing with a silk suit to actually go out in when all of this is over. Roger Vivier's Broche Buckle Mules are sensational and particularly glorious in teal, while A Piedi have just launched a capsule collection called Moonlighting with shoes they describe as 'easy slip ons that will instantly dress up the dress down and are equally chic taken outside'. The Francoise pair in pink are a favourite – satin ruching and bows evoke old Hollywood glamour. The Audrey in emerald is also divine. Meanwhile, Aquazzura's new boudoir flat mule is seriously chic and comes in pink, blue and black. Jimmy Choo have also launched a new range of slippers that are a combination of shearling and irresistibly soft mules, with crystal and pearl adornment. Luxe day/night pyjamas are the ultimate match, as are cigarette pants and a simple roll neck.

So, with the words of William Morris in my head ('Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful'), I have seriously chic slippers on the brain. They maybe just the practical fashion investment we need for this new reality and beyond.

Follow @AnnaBromilow

INSPIRATION CREDITS: Instagram.com/Anna_Bromilow
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