I have plenty of sneakers and boots, but I’m short on dressier Spring and Summer shoes. The old loafers and flats that I usually wear are finished. I passed on the very worn-out flats, but have held onto the loafers until I can find replacements. In the meantime I’ve tried on a LOT of warm-weather shoes, and have thankfully found some contenders.
Here is this week’s roundup of top picks, which includes the footwear styles I’ve tried. You’ll see classics, trends, and avant-garde looks in the mix.
1. Franco Sarto Vana and Everlane Day Glove Flats
This silhouette is a new-look modern ballet flat that does not slip off the foot because of the ample coverage on the vamp and sides of the shoe. Both styles are super soft and comfy if you can wear flat footwear. They can accommodate an orthotic, but you might need to size up. Visually I preferred the look of the Franco Sarto snip-toe style, but it was too wide. Padding them with insoles did not work well enough either. The round-toe Everlane version was a much better fit on my low-volume feet, and an insole worked well to create a great fit. But they don’t have the white in my size, so I’m waiting until they replenish the stock. The Everlane store manager suggested I look again in a month. So if you need a wider fit, go for the Franco Sarto.
2. Paul Green Lil Flat
These are elegant and chic on the foot, and more of a lighter warm cream than the darker cool grey in the stock photo. Extremely comfortable, beautifully luxe, and well made. The snaffle hardware is a subtle light gold. They are made in Austria with eco-friendly materials and manufacturing practices. They can work on a wider foot. I managed to make them fit with two strategically placed sets of insoles. I’m deciding whether they will work well enough for my feet and walking lifestyle. I am smitten and hope they work out. They are a great addition to my horsey wardrobe capsule.
3. Brooks Brothers Supima Cotton Cable Sweater
I have this in white and navy. It’s beautifully made, crisp, polished, tailored and classic. 100% cotton, relatively lightweight, and machine washable. It’s fitted, but not too tight, and has an extremely neat and snug neckline. The cables are refined, flat, and don’t look bulky. The sleeves are long, but are easily cuffed. The length looks streamlined and not slouchy. I’ve worn both colours a few times already and love them.
4. Bella Vita Ira Strappy Sandal
These are a gorgeously simple and refined modern classic gladiator. Made in Italy. I have a hard time getting sandals to fit but these worked in a narrow size in white. They are soft, comfortable, and breezy. I usually don’t wear sandals, but since our Seattle Summers are hot these days, I need one pair for just in case. They come in wide and extra wide sizes too. Thank you Bella Vita for making a diverse set of widths.
5. Free People New Frontier Western Mule
I was looking for a refined pair of white clogs and found this mule-clog hybrid, so I tried the white. They fit my feet so do not try them unless your feet are on the narrow side, and have a low vamp. They fit well, and were relatively comfortable. But I found the heels too high, so back they went. They look sleek and refined on the foot, and a little dressier than chunkier clogs.
6. COS Dresses
COS dresses are an acquired taste, because many of the styles are voluminous and architectural. I see some fitted styles coming through too. Personally, I like their big, baggy and breezy shirt dresses if there is enough structure in the sleeves, shoulders, and neckline. I’ve had great luck with some of their dresses in the past, so they are on my radar. I’ve ordered the first turquoise style and will let you know how it fits. COS produces sustainably and ethically, and most of the items are machine washable.
