Court shoes are never out of fashion
The unbounded popularity of these heeled shoes is due to the endless range of models, heel heights, materials and, of course, colours. That is what makes these classic shoes so timeless yet also trendy.
Ideal for any occasion
No matter whether you’re going to the office, a casual or a fancy event, you can’t go wrong with court shoes. Although court shoes are not obligatory with trouser suits, they do make a great team. For a long day at work a pair of low Cuban heels are recommended; they’re comfortable but still emphasise the length of your legs. And black is no longer the only option for the office – why not spice up your outfit with a dash of colour.
A popular trend is to combine contrasts for a laid-back look. Baggy boyfriend jeans or casual chinos teamed with a pair of classic Prada court shoes will really have heads turning in your direction.
Peep toes are taking over the shoe scene
Within a few years, these special court shoes have become one of our favourites amongst heeled shoes and make shoe addicts go weak at the knees. Peep toes first came into being in the 1950s and were rediscovered in the new millennium. The name comes from the little gap at the toe – your toes literally “peep” out of the shoes. Peep toes are so popular because they’re so versatile. They can just as easily be worn to an elegant evening event as they can with jeans or shorts. However you wear them, these fashionable court shoes will always attract attention. Just like court shoes, peep toes are available in various models and with higher or lower heels – there’s also the added advantage of being able to show off your pedicure!
Not all court shoes are created equal
Historically, court shoes were for men. Between the 17th and 18th centuries they were worn with white knee socks and knickerbockers. Only in the second half of the 19th century did women discover the court shoe as an alternative to their usual ankle boots and silk slippers. Finally, in the 20th century, court shoes gained in popularity due to the improvements in road surfaces thus reducing the need to walk long distances as a result of improved transportation means.
Since then court shoes have evolved and not every pair is the same. Court shoes can be split into various categories depending on the height of their heels. The famous stiletto heel is very narrow and gained in popularity during the 1950s. In contrast, platform court shoes have an additional platform sole which adds a touch of elegance to every woman’s leg. These shoes are particularly suitable for special occasions. Wedges are a comfortable and very popular alternative as, due to the weight distribution over the entire sole, it’s easier to balance in them meaning they can be worn for longer periods of time.
Strictly speaking, court shoes are classed as low-heeled shoes that are widely cut so that the vamp is left free and the foot is fully enclosed. They have a heel at least 3 cm high. By the way, shoes are only classed as high heels when the heel is 10 cm or higher.
