Different Types of Metallic Shoes and How to Style Them
Metallic shoes, with their captivating high-shine allure, are aesthetically pleasing and often capture the imagination. Their popularity tends to peak during the year-end party season when everyone is dressing to impress, but they remain a versatile choice throughout the year. The neutral base of classic metallic hues like silver, gold, and bronze, allows them to complement a wide range of outfits, and their enduring appeal ensures they transcend ever-changing fashion trends.
In this article, we will explore the various types of metallic shoes and delve into how to wear them effortlessly, offering fashion tips and inspiration on how to style metallic footwear for different occasions.
Introduction to Metallic Shoes
Metallic shoes refer to any type of footwear with a shiny, metal-like finish. They typically come in silver, gold, bronze, or pewter hues but can encompass a wider range of colors.
Metallic silver shoes
Metallic silver shoes boast a bright gray-white color and are considered to be quite versatile. Serving as a shiny neutral, they offer many styling possibilities and will add a touch of understated glamor to any look.
Metallic gold shoes
Metallic gold shoes have a brilliant yellow tone, giving them a striking appearance. They exude a glamorous aesthetic and are perfect for parties, celebrations, and special occasions.
Metallic pewter shoes
Metallic pewter shoes boast a bluish or silver-gray color. Unlike silver, which tends to be brighter and shinier, pewter’s darker and duller hue offers a sleek and cool alternative to classic neutrals like timeless black.
Metallic bronze shoes
Metallic bronze shoes have a yellow-brown or copper hue. Darker than gold and silver, they offer a less striking option for everyday wear.
Colorful metallic shoes
Silver, gold, bronze, and pewter are among the most common metallic colors, but modern innovation has expanded the palette to include a wide range of hues, from brights to pastels. Additionally, iridescent and holographic colors have emerged, boasting unique color-shifting properties and rainbow-colored finishes with a metallic sheen. These options are popular for their eye-catching, radiant finish.
Accessorising & color coordination with Metallic Shoes
No longer confined to special occasions, metallic shoes have worked their way into everyday wardrobes. When styled thoughtfully, they offer an unexpected versatility, adding oomph to your ensembles. Moreover, they can be dressed up or down effortlessly.
Styling silver shoes
These cool-toned metallic shoes can be viewed as a neutral addition to your wardrobe — they will effortlessly complement black, white, and gray. With their edgy allure, silver shoes brighten up and accentuate all-black outfits. Their luminous finish will add polish to your outfits, but can easily be toned down by pairing them with casual wear staples like denim jeans. Another way to style silver shoes is to coordinate them with other silver accessories and jewelry for a streamlined and cohesive look.
Styling gold shoes
Bold and glamorous, gold-toned shoes are often associated with the red carpet and will introduce a regal element into your outfits. They beautifully complement jewel tones and vibrant colors like reds and pinks, while adding a touch of shimmer to warm-toned neutrals like beige. You can also style gold shoes with your existing gold-toned jewelry for a classy everyday look. They can be worn with black or white for a timelessly elegant combination.
Styling pewter shoes
As the most muted hue in the metallic range, pewter is the ideal neutral choice. Closer to silver, pewter is often described as dark gray gunmetal. This darker-toned metallic evokes a grunge aesthetic, adding depth and dimension while toughening up your ensembles. It pairs well with denim and other utilitarian silhouettes but can just as easily be dressed up for a more sophisticated look. Enhancing its high-shine finish with sparkly adornments is a great way to elevate this versatile shade, making it adaptable to any occasion.
How to style metallic shoes for different occasions?
Metallic shoes are no longer just for parties. With an increasing array of variations and fresh designs that put a modern spin on classic silhouettes, there is now a metallic shoe for every occasion.
Everyday / Casual / Daytime
Who says you can’t wear metallic shoes every day? Their star power elevates even the most casual outfits, making you look and feel fabulous from the first step.
For casual outings, consider open-toed sandals with minimal design or subtle metallic accents – they will add a touch of shimmer to your outfits without going overboard. Metallic sneakers are another great option, blending comfort with style for everyday appeal. Think Mary Jane sneakers with a shimmery silver finish or classic kicks with metallic trim linings. They will elevate any outfit with a contemporary touch without compromising comfort, making them perfect for busy days.
Wedding
If you are a modern bride who wants to stand out, metallic shoes can elevate your dress or gown. Metallic silver offers the closest shimmer to white, adding a touch of understated sophistication to your look. And for guests, metallic shoes are a versatile choice. They will add instant glamor to any outfit, from pantsuits to long silk dresses, so you can look your best on your loved one’s special day.
Party
Metallic shoes are the key to effortlessly dazzling party looks. From shiny silver to glamorous gold, and even bold hues like emerald or fuchsia, metallic shoes offer a spectrum of options to match your party mood. Whether you prefer head-turning platform pumps, strappy heeled sandals, or comfortable wedges, metallic footwear guarantees you will be the center of attention. They are the perfect way to turn heads and light up any party.
Timeless vs. Trendy
Metallic shoes may be seen as a fashion trend that ebbs and flows with the seasons, but their enduring appeal is undeniable, especially as they surge in popularity every holiday season. Throughout the year, numerous special occasions and celebrations also call for the shimmer and shine of metallic footwear. If it suits your style, you can even incorporate metallic footwear into your everyday wardrobe for a cool-girl appeal.
Dip your toes into the trend with a pair of metallic strappy sandals. They offer a subtle yet striking way to elevate your looks. Timeless styles like pointed-toe pumps and loafers offer versatility and can be easily dressed up or down when the occasion calls for it.
Ultimately, to maximize the fashion mileage of your metallic shoes, opt for minimalist silhouettes with refined details. Given the trend’s rising popularity, you might even consider curating a collection of metallic shoes to meet all your styling needs.
Metallic shoes have firmly established themselves in the fashion landscape, and their popularity is only expected to grow as personal style becomes increasingly eclectic and expressive. Don't hesitate to step outside your comfort zone and experiment with metallic footwear; you can effortlessly incorporate "neutral" metallic hues like silver, bronze, and pewter into your everyday wardrobe, while reserving glamorous gold and vibrant finishes for special occasions. Explore our extensive collection of metallic shoes to find the perfect pair for you.
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Boots in Fashion: Evolution of A Timeless Style
No shoe collection will be complete without a pair of boots. Originally designed to be hard-wearing working shoes, this striking shoe style has been a style staple for fashionable women for decades. In this article, we will explore the origins of the boot and trace its evolution through the ages. We will also delve into the different materials and construction methods that are used to make boots, as well as the various styles and how to wear them.
The Evolution of Women's Boots
Boots have come a long way in fashion. Their evolution from practical footwear to a chic symbol is long and interesting. Below, we delve into their origins, as well as their ascent in the fashion world.
Origins of Boots
The earliest depiction of boots dates back to 15,000 BC, discovered in cave paintings in northern Spain. Pictorial evidence also suggests that the people of Persia wore boots as early as 7,000 BC.
It's safe to say that boots may be as old as civilization itself, evolving alongside society. Throughout history, their purposes and styles have undergone significant changes.
In the Roman times, boots served as functional footwear, enabling the Romans to travel long distances on foot. During the Middle Ages, they continued to fulfill their practical purpose, providing protection against disease and unsanitary conditions. Additionally, they acquired the role of a status symbol, with the length of their pointed toes indicating the wearer's standing in society.
In the next section, we will zoom in on their fashion evolution, exploring how they emerged as a style symbol and a wardrobe staple.
Boots in Fashion
During the Victorian era, boots were a popular footwear choice. With Victorian women being particularly fashion-conscious, there was a growing emphasis on the aesthetic appeal of boots. Furthermore, advancements in technology made it easier to embellish and add decorative elements to the boots.
Over time, the demand for fashionable boots continued to grow, and their aesthetic evolved as well. This demand surged in the 20th century, driven by the popularity of Western films in the 1940s and 1950s. Hollywood costume designers, seeking to enhance the allure of cowboy boots on screen, collaborated with renowned footwear designer Salvatore Ferragamo to create vibrant and intricately decorated versions.
At that time, films wielded significant influence on street fashion, leading people to adopt the cowboy boots they saw on screen as statement fashion accessories, regardless of their equestrian background. Cowboy boots became highly sought-after items during this period.
The boot's status in fashion solidified in the 1960s, with French designer André Courrèges's invention of the go-go boots, which set the standard for modern boot styles in the years ahead. The release of Nancy Sinatra's song “These Boots Are Made For Walkin” in 1966 further popularized this specific style as she performed the song in a pair.
In the decades that followed, different boot styles have risen to prominence as fashion icons of their time. For instance, the thigh-high boots popularized by It girl Jane Birkin in the 1970s and the UGG boots of the early 2000s, which were embraced by celebrities like Paris Hilton, Sienna Miller, and Nicole Richie.
Today, influenced by the trends of previous decades, a wide variety of boot styles — functional, fashionable, or a blend of both — are available. Explore our guide on the different types of boots to become acquainted with all of them.
Materials Used in Women's Boots
When it comes to picking a suitable pair of boots, affordability, your uses for it and the occasion are some factors you should take into consideration.
Leather
Leather is the preferred material for boots, since it is extremely durable and practical. It is hardy enough to withstand wear and tear, but also gets softer with use and will eventually mold to your feet after an initial period of breaking them in. They are usually treated to become water-resistant or even waterproof, which extends their longevity. Since it is of a premium quality, it also looks sophisticated in appearance.
Different types of leather have their own unique properties. Full grain leather, for instance, is a premium leather that does not undergo the buffing or sanding process, therefore allowing it to retain its authentic grain texture. Overtime, it develops a patina and a distinctive look that is highly sought after. It is also incredibly resilient, which makes it the top choice for high-quality boots. A softer type of leather is suede, which is made from the underside of animal skins. Its distinctive texture adds character to the design that it is applied on, which makes it visually appealing. Patent leather, on the other hand, is a coated type of leather that has a glossy finish. Its polished appearance is not only pleasing to the eye, but it is also waterproof and easy to clean.
However, because of the various processes and treatments it undergoes, leather can be a costly material. It also requires careful maintenance with specialized brushes and cleaning solutions. If you are planning to wear them for a long time, the durability of leather may make it worth the investment. However, if cost is a concern, other comparable alternatives are also available.
Synthetic Materials
Synthetic materials used in boots include nylon, polyester, synthetic leather, PVC (polyvinyl chloride), and polyurethane (PU). They are engineered to mimic the properties of leather while being more affordable and accessible. They are also cruelty-free and vegan alternatives to natural leather. Developments and innovation in the manufacturing processes of synthetic materials also means there are added benefits — such as enhanced water-resistance and lightweight construction — on top of their durability. This makes them well suited for everyday wear.
Yet, it does not last as long as natural leather does. Breathability may also be a concern — natural leather is moisture-wicking, while synthetic leathers are unable to replicate that quality.
Exotic Skin Materials
Apart from leather, other materials like snake, lizard and alligator skins are also used in the making of boots. They are sought after for their unique and striking patterns, which gives them a distinctive aesthetic — no two pairs of naturally-derived snakeskin or alligator skin boots will look exactly the same. It is even harder for synthetic materials to accurately capture the intricate patterns and rich hues of these materials, which is why they are treated as premium-quality materials. Lizard and alligator skins are also extremely sturdy with just the right amount of flexibility, making them highly durable and wearable — they can be worn for rough work, but can also double as sophisticated footwear for special occasions.
Given their rarity and laborious processing methods, boots made out of these types of materials are usually expensive and harder to find. Furthermore, consistent and proper maintenance is required, making them harder to care for. However, if their timeless aesthetic and unique properties is what you value, then a good pair is worth investing in. Otherwise, there are also synthetic options that you can experiment with first before making the commitment.
Boot Construction Techniques
So, we have looked at the different types of materials boots can be made from. In this section we will learn about how they are constructed and made, particularly three of the most commonly used techniques.
Goodyear Welt
Patented after Charles Goodyear Jr., the Goodyear welt has become one of the most well-known and iconic construction styles. Known for its intensive and laborious process, it involves a two-level stitching that makes for a highly sturdy construction while also allowing you to resole them as many times as you want. Welted shoes are also more water-resistant and you can attach double (or even triple) outsoles.
Blake Stitch
Another popular construction method is the blake stitch. It is one of the first mechanised methods for making boots, and it is loved for its cost-effectiveness, thanks to its simple and quick method. It involves a stitch going through the insole, outsole and upper.
Cementing
Entirely distinct from the above-mentioned methods, a cemented construction involves no stitching or welt. Rather, as the name suggests, the soles of the shoes are simply glued with a strong adhesive to the upper parts of the shoe.
Fashion Tips and Styling Ideas for Boots
The following fashion tips and styling ideas will help you create chic ensembles with any type of boots.
Styling Tips for Different Boot Styles
Ankle Boots
Ankle boots are a cornerstone of any wardrobe, featuring a shorter shaft height that makes them suitable for year-round wear, regardless of the season. For casual, laid-back days, opt for flat ankle boots — such as the classic Chelsea style — to strike a balance between style and comfort. They work wonders with everything, but pair exceptionally well with denim for a timelessly chic look.
If you are wearing them to the office, ankle boots with mid heels and sleek pointed toes will help to create a more polished appearance. Whether paired with tailored trousers or pencil skirts, they exude sophistication. Ensure a slight gap between the hemline and the boots for a proportionate silhouette, and stick to neutral tones like black, brown, and white for versatility.
Combat Boots
Combat boots have all the qualities of a great transitional shoe, making them a popular footwear choice during the spring and fall seasons. They will effortlessly infuse any ensemble with a cool, fashion-forward edge.
One of the most timeless and stylish pairings for combat boots is with a floral dress. The juxtaposition between feminine florals and the ruggedness of the boots creates a visually striking contrast. It's a combination that never fails to impress.
For a nod to '90s fashion, consider styling a lace slip dress with combat boots, adding a cardigan for warmth and dimension. Alternatively, fully embrace the grunge appeal of combat boots by pairing them with leather pants and a matching jacket for an edgy, elevated vibe.
Western/Cowboy Boots
Western or cowboy boots will always remain a fashion favorite, but it can be challenging to wear them without veering into costume territory. To strike the right balance, start by selecting a pair of cowboy boots with a modern twist — think sleek, minimalist designs like a tonal black pair. Style them with elevated classics, such as a satin bias-cut skirt, to achieve a refined and chic look.
Denim is another timeless pairing for cowboy boots. Whether you tuck your jeans into your boots for an elegant equestrian-inspired look or leave them out for a more casual and relaxed aesthetic, the result is effortlessly stylish.
Knee-High Boots
Knee-high boots are renowned for their versatility. However, their tall shaft height can make them somewhat tricky to style. Here are two fail-proof ways to rock them.
- Pair them with a maxi skirt or dress. This combination not only adds a touch of sophistication but also ensures comfort and practicality. While the maxi skirt or dress covers most of the boots, it serves a utilitarian purpose by protecting our feet from the cold.
- To showcase knee-high boots in all their glory, consider tucking your pants into them. Skinny jeans make an excellent choice for creating this look because they do not add extra volume that takes up space in the boots. Any top can be paired with this ensemble to create an elegant look.
Thigh-High Boots
Thigh-high boots and short hemlines complement each other, creating a chic and statement-making silhouette. It is generally not advisable to pair thigh-high boots with long skirts or dresses, as they can appear bulky and cause discomfort due to their larger top portion. Extending higher up the leg, thigh-high boots ensure a fashion-forward look entirely on their own. Pair them with a mini skirt for a cute off-duty ensemble, or opt for a sleek, short blazer dress to exude sophistication on a girl’s night out.
Statement Boots
Statement boots encompass a range of bold styles, from vibrant colors to eye-catching animal prints and striking metallic finishes. Essentially, they are made to stand out and will, instantly elevating any outfit. While there are no strict rules for styling statement boots, a general guideline is to keep the rest of your outfit simple, allowing these boots to shine as the star of the look. Opt for neutral pieces or minimalist designs with sleek silhouettes, such as a classic t-shirt and jeans, an all-black dress, or neutral-toned skirts. However, for maximalists, the sky is the limit—feel free to embrace bold clashes of colors, mixed prints, and pattern combinations to create a standout look that reflects your vibrant style personality.
Seasonal Styling Considerations
When styling boots, it is important to consider seasonal factors. In the colder months, such as fall and winter, knee-high boots are a great choice for keeping your feet and legs warm and dry. Pair them with thick socks or tights for added warmth. Additionally, choose materials like leather or suede that offer durability and protection against the elements.
For spring and summer, lighter options like ankle boots are ideal. Consider open-toe or cut-out styles to keep your feet cool on warmer days. Materials like lace and mesh are also more breathable.
You might also want to consider boots with hybrid designs, such as those with removable socks that transform them into sandals. These unconventional options offer versatility and ensure that the boots remain wearable throughout the year.
Popular Colors for Boots
The most common and popular boot colors are black and brown, which are often recommended by fashion insiders to first-time boot buyers due to their versatility. Both hues are excellent choices suitable for anyone's wardrobe. Classic brown boots tend to complement a wider range of colors, while black boots offer a more modern and formal aesthetic, ideal for polished occasions.
Beyond black and brown, popular colors encompass a spectrum of neutral tones, including grey, khaki, beige, and even dark jewel tones, such as burgundy and navy.
Colors beyond neutrals fall into seasonal categories, their popularity fluctuating with changing fashion trends.
Accessories and Details
Details can make all the difference. Paying attention to subtle elements can help you create a more compelling and cohesive look. For example, if the boots feature metallic chain or buckle accents, consider whether they are gold or silver. You can then accessorize your outfit with matching gold or silver jewelry. This seemingly small action can truly tie your look together.
Additionally, consider the type of fastenings the boots come with, as this can aid in styling your look. Boots with side buckles offer adjustable fits and provide versatility in styling options. On the other hand, boots with zippers are easy to wear and will add a cool edge to your look, but they may not offer as much customisation.
Since boots are often chunky footwear, it is essential to consider the size of their soles and heels when styling your outfit. Neglecting this aspect can throw off your outfit's proportions. For instance, chunky boots paired with wide-leg pants can create a heavy bottom, which may not be flattering. In such cases, opt for pointed-toe booties with kitten heels instead, these small details can make a big difference.
Boot Fit and Sizing Tips
Boots should not be too loose or too tight on the foot — ideally, they should fit snugly while still allowing some wiggle room. Most styles, especially those of a thicker and stiffer construction, would require some breaking in before they become comfortable. To find the right fit, the boots should feel comfortable around the widest part of your foot, and they should not pinch at the heel. If you are looking to style them with thick socks, look for pairs with a more generous allowance at the heels and shafts, or consider sizing up.
The way the boots fit also depends on its specific style. Higher-rise styles might sometimes fit the feet well but are too tight around the calves or thighs. Boots with wider top edges, like cowboy and harness boots, would be more accommodating options. Alternatively, certain features like elasticated panels and lace closures offer some degree of flexibility in the fit of the boots. For sturdier and more protective styles like hiking and combat boots, another key area to look out for are the ankles — there should be just enough room for movement without too much slippage.
Ultimately, finding the right size and fit is important for your foot health. Wearing boots that are too tight may lead to structural problems like the development of bunions, while boots that are too big might mean inadequate arch support. It is best to shop for your boots in person, and to walk a few steps in them to ascertain how they move with your feet.
Maintenance and Care
High-quality boots will be some of the most hard-wearing and durable shoes you will ever own, but they also require proper maintenance to maximize their shelf-life. Here are some tips for boot care.
Cleaning and Conditioning
First, it is important to note the type of material your boots are made from. Whether they are crafted fully from leather, a mix of leather and faux leather, or from softer materials, such as suede — they all require basic cleaning and conditioning. With any type of boots, it is essential to give them regular cleaning with a soft and clean cloth to remove any accumulated dirt or dust.
For leather or mixed-leather boots, consider investing in leather creams and leather conditioners that will help maintain their natural smoothness and prevent the material from cracking or drying out. Whereas for suede or other fabric boots, they require more specific care, including the use of special suede brushes, as well as material-specific care products.
Waterproofing
Another way you can care for your boots is through a ‘waterproofing’ treatment. As the name suggests, this adds a protective layer on top of the boot material, making them even more resistant to external and unexpected damage from harsh weather conditions, as well as moisture.
Storage Tips
Last but not least, storing your boots in well-ventilated areas and away from direct sunlight is one of the easiest ways to keep your boots in pristine condition. Do note to also air your boots from time to time, allowing them to ‘breathe’ and dry out from any internal moisture caused by sweat. Do also consider investing in boot trees that will help keep them in shape, even after long periods of storage.
Now that you have an in-depth understanding of the history, construction, styling and maintenance of boots — from ankle to thigh-high — you can make an informed choice on your next pair of boots. Whether you are looking for boots that you can wear every day or statement ones for a special occasion, there will be a pair in our extensive collection of boots that will suit your personality and purpose.
