Seasonal yet Timelessness
Courtesy of Pinterest
Written By: Jacqueline Preuninger
With the changing of seasons comes the changes in trends and, most especially, the sale rack. During the recent seasonal transition from summer to fall while scrolling through the sales section, I encountered numerous platform heels from many designers. This included Versace, Valentino, and more. As platform heels of this sort are on the decrease in popularity and kitten heels have made a comeback, I realized that what was once the holy grail of platform shoes was now a bucket of social rejects. As I continued to scroll, I found some fabulous classic Christian Louboutin heels. These effortlessly timeless shoes were a steal despite the fact that they were surrounded by the diseased trends of past seasons. In order words, these classics were a steal in the sale section but the trending shoes felt cheap. It makes one wonder what exactly can become a timeless shoe and what is always destined to eventually become a little cheugy. Are our current favorite ballet flats and Mary Janes eventually going to end up the same way?
Firstly, what makes a shoe a classic? Material? Heel height? Silhouette? The real answer is all of the above. In my mind’s eye, the most classic shoe is always something practical yet chic. Never over three inches in height, a great material that is durable (not Merrills durable) but still trendy, and the silhouette cannot stray too chunky. Over the years, we have seen chunky shoes come in and out of style, such as the 70’s rockstar platforms and the 2000’s platform bonanza. The classic is something that can be worn with almost every outfit because the silhouette does not overpower. Some of the best examples of this kind of show are, but are not limited to the Manolo Blahnik BB pump as seen on many a royal, and the Christian Louboutin Kate heel, inspired by the queen Kate Moss herself. As the revolution of trends continues on their rotating cycle, these icons remain forever a staple. As we come into the holiday season, perhaps it is fortuitous to go grab yourself one of the icons.
Although icons are great, I personally prefer a different kind of classic and that is what I like to classify as the modern classic. It is a show like the Manolo Blahnik BB but with a touch of modern flair. These are shoes that always look good but contain a bit of the modern trends. Currently, we are seeing a love for mesh shoes. A version that is classic yet trend-worthy worth are the Manolo Blahnik BBLA 90. These have the classic sleek silhouette that is timeless but contain fun mesh polka dots that provide a hip and modern flair. These shoes are definitely modern-day Carrie Bradshaw-coded. They can be worn now and for seasons to come in a way that is stylish yet nostalgic, and which gives a subtle nod to their time. So, what's the best shoe to buy? The timeless pump, the trendy sky-high platforms, of the modern timeless? As Yoda says, the choice relies on you. But as Jacqueline says, buy what brings you joy, or the best cost per wear.
From left to right: Christian Louboutin Kate heels, Manolo Blahnik BB, Manolo Blahnik BBLA 90
Courtesy of Net-a-Porter
