Women's Shoes

Choosing the right pair

Before you think about colour, think about how you'll wear them:

• Loafers: easy to slip on and smart enough for the office, errands or lunch out. They work with jeans, tailored trousers or a skirt.
• Ballet flats and flat shoes: light and understated, great with dresses and cropped trousers. A good choice if you walk a lot and would rather skip the heel.
• Boat shoes: a summer classic, comfortable for strolls along the seafront and easy with casual outfits.
• Heels and occasion shoes: for weddings, dinners and events. If you'll be on your feet for hours, look for a wider heel and a snug fit at the back.

Materials: leather, fabric and patent

Leather gradually moulds to your foot and stands up well to daily wear, which makes it the most versatile choice in any season. Fabric uppers are light and cool, ideal for spring and summer on the coast. Patent leather adds shine and a dressier feel; it's hard-wearing and easy to wipe clean, though it breathes less than smooth leather, so it suits occasional wear or milder days best.

Fit and sizing

A comfortable shoe feels right from the first step:

• Heel: it should stay put as you walk, which matters most with loafers and flats.
• Toe box: your toes need room to move without rubbing. Any pressure in the shop will only get worse over a long day.
• Instep: the shoe should hug your foot without digging in.

Try shoes on in the afternoon, when feet are slightly swollen, and with the tights or socks you plan to wear. If you're between sizes, drop us an email and we'll help you choose.

Caring for your shoes

Wipe leather with a damp cloth and feed it now and then with a cream in a matching shade. Clean patent with a soft cloth and a dedicated patent product to keep the shine. Fabric can be brushed gently and spot-cleaned with water and mild soap, but never put in the washing machine. Always let shoes dry away from radiators and direct sun, and rotate your pairs so each one gets a rest between wears.