Ask The Expert is a column where we get experts to answer questions on topics related to fashion and beauty. This week, Malaysian footwear designer Nelissa Hilman answers your questions about shoes. What are the hot trends when it comes to shoes? Kitten heels? Ballerina pumps? Or are all these out of season? – Myra, Damansara Kitten heels are one of the hottest trends rights now, but they are not a top pick.
Sneakers, loafers and slippers are perhaps a more accurate indication of the footwear mood we are witnessing right now: comfortable, practical and easy. Although, if you pick the right pair, kitten heels can actually deliver the same functional traits as a flat shoe – plus, they’re still a much steadier alternative to stilettos. Ballet flats never truly went away, and safe to say, they won’t be disappearing any time soon.
The design has a timeless appeal. I’m looking to create a shoe capsule wardrobe. Do you have any advice for me? – Liz, Shah Alam Building an excellent capsule wardrobe (meaning a minimalist collection of fashion items that can be put together in different ways to cover a variety of occasions) takes time and patience.
Unlike other items of clothing though, shoes really do need to function correctly. You may carry your clothes, but shoes carry you. Looking at what you already have – and what you might be missing – is a good place to start.
At one end of the spectrum, you have flats: think loafers, ballet pumps and sneakers. These will be your go-to for dressing down a weekend outfit. Then there are the polished heroes, such as heeled sandals, stilettos and other showpiece shoes.
These will be pretty for dinner, events and weddings. They’re also a winner in the office, dressing up or elevating your favourite black trousers. According to Nelissa Hilman, you really need to try out different shoe designs to find one that works for you.
Photo: Syazwan Asyraf You will need to have such core styles in your shoe capsule wardrobe. They will be able to take you from one lifestyle setting to another. Read more: Ask The Expert: Advice from a top fashion model on how to elevate your look As someone with flat feet, what kind of shoe styles would be best for me? – Nel, Kuantan First off, I’ll have to say that I am not a medical professional with orthopaedic knowledge.
As a shoe designer however, I do believe that if you have flat feet, you should be wearing shoes that provide arch support. Since flat feet tend to be wider due to the natural spreading of the feet, it’s also advisable for all flat-feet shoes to boast a roomier toe box that can comfortably accommodate broader feet. What do you think is the perfect heel height? Is there a way to make ultra-high heels feel more comfortable? – Alice, Puchong It really depends on how you choose them.
There is no one heel height that works for everyone. If you are considering low-heeled shoes, go up about a half size from your normal feet size. The extra size ensures your toes are not compressed into a too small space.
If they are high heels, you need to be even more careful. Make sure your feet are not sliding down into the toe box. This can be really painful.
Some women pad their toes with cotton balls to cushion the toes. Also, try on a range of brands and styles – what works may surprise you. Why don’t my shoes fit me anymore? What’s your advice to a customer who says their feet size fluctuates? – Lindy, Ipoh Start by having your foot measured by a professional at a shoe store to determine the accurate size and width you need.
Get re-measured at least once every few years because your foot size and shape can change over time. Shoes don’t last forever. Upgrade when the texture on the bottom of your shoes begins to wear around the heels or balls of your feet, as this may start to affect the fit.
Read more: Ask The Expert: Everything you need to know about jewellery I’m a keen supporter of sustainable fashion. When shopping for shoes, what should I look out for that signals a product has been produced to the best practices of sustainability? – WK, Penang What you can look out for are footwear companies that commit to strict ethical practices in their processes, including ensuring fair wages and safe working environment for workers – plus giving back to the community via charity, for example. Sustainable shoe brands also use all-natural and recycled/upcycled materials where possible.
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