Newsletter 01

Fashion dilemmas, not an unusual thing to those of us that like to stay ahead of the trends. We all know that not everything that’s ‘in’ will suit us, so we must choose carefully. Which brings me to the wedge sandal. You may, like myself be immediately transported back to the seventies at just the mention of the word and wonder how on earth you could possibly indulge in such footwear.

Well, before you dash out and buy yet another pair of stilettos to teeter around in, or flip flops to flop about in let’s look at the pros and cons of the wedge.

First and foremost, the wedge gives you height, without the pain of the stiletto, the pressure is evenly distributed so they are better for your feet. They look fabulous with trousers, summer frocks, shorts and you won’t look ridiculous wearing them around the pool with a sarong either.

Are you warming to the wedge yet? A common statement with many fashion trends is “I’m too old” to wear said trend, and I’m happy to say that with this particular item it really doesn’t apply. There are so many beautiful versions around that there is a wedge on the market to suit you regardless of your age.

Wedges don’t have to be open-toed mammoth monsters. Jigsaw (020 7491 4484) has probably the most elegant selection from a closed-toe ankle-strapped wedge in leather, to rope wedges with a small platform in the most exquisite coffee coloured silk. Suitable for formal occasions or wild nights of dancing whatever your age.

For an inexpensive fun pair try, Marks and Spencer (0845 302 1234). Their printed canvas wedge at £25 could have stepped off the catwalk at Pucci. Russell and Bromley (020 7629 6903) again has a wonderful and wearable selection of wedges from low to the ridiculously high wooden versions (which I would advise against wearing). They might look great but this summer I shall not be held responsible for any broken bones or loss of dignity after the fall.