Flat shoes forever: why I won’t stop wearing comfy shoes and sneakers
Grenson’s trainers. Photos: Claire Pepper
Grazia magazine recently featured an article headed ‘Brace yourself for life post-trainers’, explaining that sneakers are over and high fashion has moved on. According to the Sunday Times Style magazine the sportswear staple was virtually invisible on the catwalk and the front row at the latest round of shows. Perhaps they should’ve looked a bit further back, where I was sitting…. Anyhow. It would seem that trainers are being shunned by the fashion world in favour of heels and barely-there strappy sandals. Have we really reached peak sneaker? I’ve certainly had enough of £700 pimped-up Dad Shoes but that doesn’t mean I’m going to slip straight into spindly heels.
‘Sooner or later designers will want the exact opposite of what everyone is wearing, so no doubt heels will come back,’ is what Hannah Rochell, author of En Brogue: Love Fashion, Love Shoes, Hate Heels said when I asked her about this phenomenon (for my chapter on comfy shoes in Know Your Style). ‘But I don’t think the woman on the street will necessarily feel like she has to wear them. The last few seasons have been a liberating time for those of us who would rather wear flats – particularly as brands are putting so much more effort into designing them.’
As far as I’m concerned, flat and low-heeled shoes and sneakers are a fundamental part of the grown-up woman’s wardrobe. When we have stuff to do and places to go, we need footwear that works. And this is, quite brilliantly, confirmed in an interview between writer/director/heroine Phoebe Waller-Bridge and actor Jodie Comer, in the latest issue of Elle magazine. In response to the question ‘What are you wearing right now?’, Comer, 26, says that she has retired from heels, adding, ‘The range of dance moves you can do in a flat shoe.’ In agreement, PWB replies, ‘You can get a much better lunge.’
Grenson’s loafers
For me, flats will never go out of style. Moving around and being comfortable becomes imperative as we get older, making low-heels, flatforms and sneakers essential. On a recent shoot it was my well-loved and well-worn Gucci loafers, Margaret Howell sample-sale brogues and Grenson’s new season trainers that I was reaching for again and again. The good news is that there are plenty of shoes you can walk (and stand your ground) in, this spring. I’ll soon be slipping off my socks and boots and making the most of run-around styles while feeling footloose and fancy-free – whatever the fashion naysayers may think.
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Discussion (58 Comments)
Yes, that’s true about the support needed, Vivien – I must emphasize that in future. And I am still waiting for the weather improve so that I can give the velvet mules a run-out!
Joyce Morris says:
So well said Alyson. I love fashion, but my feet are wrecked and the sneaker and flats have been an absolute god send. I will not be seduced into wearing a heel!
Hilary says:
Living in N1, I walk and run everywhere so need something comfortable on my feet. Wearing trainers and cool flats makes me feel trendy and active; hobbling in high heels seems frumpy and bothersome. I’d like to think as women, we have moved on to be able to make our own decisions as to what we wear and the designers must follow rather than lead. I really can’t imagine I swop my veeJays for heels anytime soon.
I like the look of the Tod’s flats, I love a good Tods shoe which last forever.Another brilliant post. I have been thinking exactly the same. A cuban-heeled ankle boot will always feature, but not only are my loafers (I still have the Guccis I bought in 1990…), groovy trainers, plimmies and Birkenstoks blissful to wear – I feel COOL and powerful in them. And I’m only 5’2″ ha ha ha
Anna says:
Yay to the Cuban heeled anything! Perfect height for me, as I don’t do well in flats.
Maisie says:
I’m not following fashion any more. I love my brogues, trainers, plimsoles and being able to walk for hours without sore feet. My bunion is testament to past sins ! I did buy a pair of kitten heeled slingbacks for when flats just won’t do, but that’s as high as I’m going !
maudie says:
A timely post, Alyson. Post walking miles and miles around Vienna in heeled boots to appease my husband (I know, I know – what a muppet I am!!) I am barely ambulant. Wish I had stuck to my guns and worn brogues or trainers. However, with a birthday coming up I have ordered a couple of pairs of the very gorgeous Bass Weejuns originals that come in half sizes. Now off to the charity shop with a bin bag of shoes and boots that I Never Want To See Again.
Sheila says:
Thanks for the notion of Shoes I Don’t Want To See Again. So much more helpful than pondering if they spark joy.
ha ha – uncomfortable feet can never ‘spark joy’ . The Marie Kondo thing is another conversation altogether!
Shoes I’d love to wear but can’t bear to wear – ha! I have bags of them, some high end designers, and none of the usual designer consignment stores wanted any of them (apart from the Louboutins – don’t! – which are still sitting sadly in the shop).
Tatjana Bourgeois says:
Ladies, I am there with you all! Living in New York City, I am constantly on the go-Stilettos and the new Kitten heeled Floss shoes are not currently part of my daily wardrobe. Yes, a tall shoe adds drama and looks fantastic but at the end of the day, I want to be able to walk. In some ways, I think it is about taking our power back- I read somewhere that high heels originated so that men would not need to stoop so low to kiss us!
Flats are also not synonymous with frumpy. There are plenty of stylish and comfortable flats. I love Cole Haan and also Everlane has a yummy flat and their leather is like butter.Lynda Ashley says:
Whoever wrote that article for Grazia hasn’t been to Los Angeles, CA lately. The fashion here from 8 years to 80 years is athletic leisure or whatever they call it. Workout tights in every size shape and color and running shoes daily 24/7 on people who never work out. The only reason why this 78 year old woman doesn’t dress that way is because these pants(?) don’t have pockets for my phone. Otherwise I would dress that way too. It appears to me that the days of designers calling the shots on what we women (and men too) wear are long gone. Cheers to that!
JoannieO says:
Going on 70 y/o here in Newport, Rhode Island: same “fashion” here on the East vs. the West coast. We wear whatever makes us comfortable and sporty. Athleisurewear is popular, along with jeans, boots in the wintertime, sundresses, tees and walking shorts in the summer. Whatever floats your boat, as the saying goes! Fashion Director people be gone.
Sara says:
Agree with all the flat shoes sentiments but I cannot yet chuck my heels. Not a clue when they will be worn but some are just too good to dispose of. I really only did wear them on non-walking days at work or to occasion events (again without walking far) and they are of brands and styles that will be fine for the future – I hope!
Am mourning the departure of LKBennett as their pointed flats were my go-to shoes in terms of shape, style and comfort but fortunately I do have a stash in the wardrobe. With retirement has come a far more casual style, so lots of sneakery-type flats, NOT trainers as those and brogues make me look like Minnie Mouse. I still think trainers are just that, for training; my Nikes are for walking (miles,comfortably), not wearing elsewhere.
So great to be living in the time when fewer and fewer women feel constrained to wear what “fashion” says they should but have the confidence to create their own. Back to my mantra of fashion being ephemeral and style eternal. If anyone can remember who first said it, I’d love to know.Yes, it is a shame about LK Bennett; excellent for pointed flats and decorative shoes and I thought the collection was looking much better with Linda Bennett back at the helm (don’t think they’d quite got their price point right, though).
‘Fashion fades, style is eternal’ is a quote from Yves Saint Laurent.
Totally agree with Hannah Rochell; we knew the time was coming when the catwalk would swing back. But I think it will be like the predicted death of skinny jeans a few years ago which resulted in there simply being lots of choice in jeans: baggy, skinny, straight, whatever. Hopefully shoes will go the same way. I’ve been sooo happy in my sneakers with everything.
Susan says:
My foot does better in-and my podiatrist prefers- a one inch heel….harder to find, but easier for me to walk in. Now that boot season is over, I am moving on to supportive sandals and loafers with a tiny block heel.
Catherine Vierheller says:
I agree regarding the one inch heel…so much more comfortable for me. Any recommendations for supportive one inch heels would be greatly appreciated.
Kate says:
Good Morning from Reno, NV USA. My back is ruined and the cushion in balls of feet have mysteriously moved to other parts of my body so at age 47 I’m finally putting up the white flag and am surrendering to flats unless I only have to walk from car to a seat at an “event”.
I’ve never heard of the Grenson brand here so I happily placed an order for Georgina after reading this post. I hope they work for me! Thanks for sharing.
Sandie says:
I wear lots of flats but now and then an occasion demands a flirty kitten heel. Where to find comfy low-heeled (preferably with an almond toe as opposed to a sharp point). UK suggestions please!
Moira says:
I’m almost entirely in flats nowadays and all the better for it. I stand tall and balanced, rather than (surreptitiously) on one leg whilst flexing the other sore foot.
But I need some kind of sock, otherwise I get blisters. And I’m finding it quite hard to find the perfect pair. Any ideas?
Turtle says:
Hi Moira,
Ozone makes comfortable, long-wearing socks. They’ve a wide range of wonderful patterns and colors. They are a bit pricey, but last longer than any socks I’ve ever owned. My first pair is still going strong after 10 years! They are the only socks I buy for myself. My husband and (grown) children love them as well. You can find them here- https://www.ozonesocks.com
Yolande says:
The last 8 years has seen a big change in my work routine- from office-based to either tramping around the countryside doing surveys, working at a desk from home, or exercising in trainers. Heels are a complete no-go for either of those habitats, to be honest. Because I hardly ever wear heels now, I’ve found that my body has lost the knack- I find them incredibly uncomfortable, can’t dance, can’t run if needed, can’t walk longish distances. I can still manage smaller heels, like cuban heels on ankle boots etc., or a spongey wedge if really needed. Hurrah for wedges! But I think, at 50, me and super-high spindly heels are a thing of the past, if we ever were ‘a thing’: as I’ve always been one for knowing that if I needed to run for a bus, I could do it without breaking an ankle.
Mrs Tonia says:
I agree with Alyson’s comments and those of others about comfortable shoes. My feet can no longer tolerate shoes which are too pointy or ones that rub on bunions. I mostly wear some form of trainers on a daily basis and do a lot of walking. My preferred shoes are in leather or suede by Ecco or Arche. The latter are my favourites being unlined and in interesting colours with solid real rubber soles and a bit of a heel. They look sharp but are like wearing slippers. I also have several pairs of their sandals and some ballet pump type in patent leather which look fine at more dressy occasions and stay on with adequate support and solid padded soles. I also like loafers which people mention above. I have classic black leather ones with a silver bit by Mephisto. A brand worth checking out for sandals as well as lace ups. What I won’t chose is the white shoes Alyson likes to be photographed in. Not in leather or canvas. The lightest I go is pale grey suede or silver leather Ecco ones.
I have retained a few pairs of wedgies by Robert Clergerie in black patent and bronze with a few inches of sole. Flat forms are perfect to add a bit of height and to look a bit smarter. However I think this spring will mark the disposal of some heels I’ve been hanging on to which certainly don’t spark joy and don’t get worn any more. Once one embraces comfort and the enjoyment of being able to move about on foot with speed and ease there’s no turning back.
Good topic which seems to have unanimity.Jodi Brown says:
Getting a much better lunge (PWB) does it for me – I’m never going back. Thanks Alyson, for showing us how stylish they can be.
Toomanyshoes says:
I haven’t worn a heel for years and have no intentions of ever going back them now I’ve been liberated. It’s trainers, flatforms, ankle boots, brogues, loafers and very low block heels all the way. Anything but ballet flats! To me heels look really old fashioned these days. A bit like corporate skirt suits do. I’m currently trying to find an excuse to buy a pair from Rogue Mathilda !!!
Cat says:
I also think heels look really dated! Women have moved beyond being “told” what we “should” wear. Who needs damaged, deformed feet? As for those saying there are events that “call for heels,” Emma Thompson went to meet the Queen at Buckingham Palace in sneakers – and looked spectacular. Hard to think of an occasion fancier than that. 🙂
Christian P. says:
The late Bill Cunningham said, “The best fashion show is definitely on the street. Always has been, always will be.” Let’s keep showing that we love flat, comfy shoes and the retailers will ensure supply meets demand. My favorites are Clark’s. Bless them for continuing to offer well-made, stylish options. Cole Haan’s were another staple for years. Sadly, the quality is lacking at Cole Haan now.
Liz says:
I agree with everyone! Comfort and ease of movement trump slightly more leg-flattering heels. My feet have got longer and even wider with age, I just cannot walk elegantly in heels, God knows how I worked 18 hour shifts in stilettos in the 80s. I love my trainers! Nike, Adidas, Tesco, Asics, Matalan…Birkenstock’s in the summer, Uggs in the cold, trainers all the other times.
Rebecca says:
You know, I sense a whiff of desperation in these sorts of fashion pronouncements. Millennials and Gen Zers are wearing secondhand clothing or making their own, and the ladies over 50 the market used to rely on are all hanging out in the comments here telling the pronouncers to piss off. That famous scene in ‘The Devil Wears Prada’ which is supposed to convey the reach of the designers, where one insider character tells the main character that the blue jumper she’s wearing was actually chosen for her by the industry, no longer resonates as much – the industry isn’t the only voice. I work in the arts where the only women wearing high heels are the handful at the upper echelons of the consuming end, not the producing end, so high heels used to read as ‘rich’ to me. My eye has changed in the last few years – now they read as out of touch, dated, a bit pathetic, try-hard.
ETA: I just realised how harsh this sounds. I need to acknowledge that corporate culture and dress codes are at work here so it’s the structure I should be critiquing, not the women in it. My bad.
Wendy says:
I gave up heels several decades ago & have had no problem finding attractive, comfortable flats or low wedges for every occasion, including my wedding, no matter what was “in style”. There always seems to be a few savvy designers, across all price points, who get that not all women want to wear heels. And there will always be comfy sneakers because you can’t exercise in heels! It gets a little more challenging to find them, but there’s fun in the hunt. And I agree, with Christian P., if we keep wearing them, the retailers will notice the market is still there & meet our needs.
Jean Bragg says:
A thousand times yes to flat,comfortable ,safe shoes.Injured my left ankle by falling off a pair of high heels.So grateful flats and runners are more stylish.Always have believed that if your feet are killing you,you do not look chic.
Sandie, you asked where to find kitten heels, I got mine from Boden, they aren’t too pointed, as I said, I have a bunion .
MaureenC says:
Let’s not forget that heels are not just an issue of comfort or personal style. Even now in the 21st century many companies have uniforms that include heels for women, a dress code that insists on them, or a corporate culture that makes it clear what’s expected. It’s not that long since the case of the brave Nicola Thorpe (sent home from a receptionist job in the financial services industry) resulted in a parliamentary debate.
I think we all thought at that point that she had won, but no, the government has merely called for companies to review dress codes. It’s clear that much of this goes on in industries like hospitality or retail where staff have few rights BUT how many senior women in finance, airlines or manufacturing collude with belief that work wear equals heels?ps another pipe up …………..is it just me or are kitten heels just awful? They are not flats, they are not stilettos and the elongate the foot to epic proportions.
Isobel says:
The most creative women I’ve met all wear flat shoes and boots, favouring Converse, Doc Martins, Chelsea boots and similar, or Birkenstocks and Saltwater sandals. With their individuality in clothing, unfussy hairstyles and natural faces, to me they look interesting, confident, strong and inspiring!!!
Catriona says:
I’m in the flat club too. To be honest, an outfit isn’t worth wearing unless it goes with my Ecco soft 8 white ankle boots or my Clergerie brogues. Good luck to anyone who likes to have their feet of the ground though. And those Grenson trainers Alyson? They look the business.
Goddessinthedetails says:
I decided to wear heels on my last trip to London. I got so fed up not being able to ‘leg it’ for trains and undergrounds, tottering on the uneven pavements of Brick Lane and so on. Back to my pointed toe flats.
Wait, what?? Whilst I’ve always had a pair (or ten) of flats in my wardrobe, I’ve only just come around to liking trainers as a fashionable ‘dress-down’ of the smarter dress or skirt. Typical! I’m always late to the party! What’s interesting, though…and it goes to show how fashion doesn’t always embrace health!…is three things I was told by my chiropodist. Firstly, that trainers are actually the best shoe for your feet…and he was talking a decent pair, not your £9.99-ers from Primani. Secondly, that if you are going to wear flats, to make sure they aren’t flat-flat: as in completely evenly flat-soled. Even a minimal quarter-inch heel is going to be kinder to your feet. Thirdly, make sure you have more than a paper-thin sole. I’m sure that age probably dictates this naturally, but when you’re young, you tend to grin and bear it for the sake of fashion.
I have never understood this advice about a slight incline for shoes. I’m not a podiatrist so feel free to correct me, but shouldn’t the blueprint for what is healthiest for our feet mimic being shoeless? When barefoot, nobody’s heel is elevated above the ball of their foot! Doing so disrupts the natural posture and gait. Many women’s discomfort barefoot or in flat footwear comes from a shortened hamstring, which is the direct result of . . . elevated heels! Wouldn’t the better advice to be to restore full flexibility and strength to the hamstrings as well as tendons in the legs and feet? I don’t know if it’s true, but I read somewhere that injuries from running (foot, ankle, knee) increased dramatically back when Nike introduced the modern sneaker (i.e., loads of support and padding). I am a firm believer that our feet come with everything they need at birth and that our unreasonable footwear habits create many of the (otherwise unnecessary) issues we face. Let’s get out there in flat shoes and stretch our hamstrings together! 🙂
Barb Thompson says:
First – make sure you have your feet measured and are wearing the correct size. I read an article a couple of years ago that said approximately 2/3 of women in the US were wearing the wrong size shoes. Of those, half were wearing the wrong width. I wear wide shoes and cannot buy them in a brick and mortar store, but have to shop online. Due to foot problems from wearing the wrong size for years, I can only wear flats now.
julie says:
I am a flat shoe only 50 year old and haven’t worn heels for 25 years now. Going out I wear a dress with flat ankle boots like the youngsters and have a variety if sandals, sneakers and brogues for dates at.
When I look at women on the streets they are all wearing flats with just the drunk 29 year olds tottering round on heels on weekend night’s.
I love your style. I wish I was as stylish as you!
Jeannie says:
Really enjoy reading this blog and the comments.
I still think a heel looks better with dresses and skirts, but with 70 year old just on the horizon, now confine heels to block, wedge or kitten. I twisted my ankle a few years ago and that moved me to wearing flat shoes most of the time, I love them but not with dresses or full skirts!
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Having been brought up in the era of ‘winkle pickers’ I never thought I would embrace flat shoes, especially as I have thin feet and ankles; but I must admit to wearing flatties now., as well as heels on ocassion. The only thing I would say. and you mentioned it in your first book, Alyson, is that you need flat shoes with support – otherwise I feel your deportment goes out the window and ballerinas can look so sloppy and flimsy. The really heavy soles that have been around the last couple of years are not for me as I look as if I’m wearing boats but yes, there are some nice flat(ter) shoes around now. In the defence of heels, I have to say that I still buy them (Kennel & Schmenger do some super comfy ones) but that now I don’t dismiss flat shoes out of hand.
On that subject did you ever road test those beautiful velvet mules from the other week?