Round the Block

During the winter months I am rarely seen without a heeled ankle boot. From where I am sitting I can see eight pairs of black, almond-toe leather ankle boots, and that is but a sample of my expansive  collection. I have, however, reached a seasonal turning point: it's hot, hot, hot in London, and there really is no place for boots when it is above 20ºc. Also, nothing looks more confused than a sunshine yellow chiffon dress with black Chelsea boots.

I love ankle boots as they are versatile, practical and flattering. Heels are simultaneously powerful and feminine, but they must always be comfortable, for no one wants throbbing feet by lunchtime.

Behold, my spring/summer 2014 solution: the block heeled sandal. When in Barcelona for a friend's 21st earlier this year, I visited the ZARA mothership and treated myself to these tan leather strappies. Often ZARA shoes can cut feet up, but these are crafted from soft leather, making them comfy enough for everyday wear. The tan shade is totally versatile, not as harsh as black but not too girlish like nude.

My next purchase will be a black version. Though I am dreaming of the Whistles Gia style, I think I may opt for these H&M leather strappies with gold buckle detailing. Wear with structured midi skirts for an elegant city chic look.

1. ZARA tan buckled sandals in leather, £79.99 here

2. H&M imitation leather sandals with statement buckle, £24.99 here

3. H&M leather sandals with glossy heel, also available in nude with tortoiseshell heel, £39.99 here

4. Whistles Gia leather sandals in white, also in black and silver, £185 here

BEST OF THE REST

Fit for Feb

Happy February all.

I don't know about you, but it actually makes me feel a little bit ill that we are already a month into 2014* but let's push onwards and rejoice that it's basically Spring!

Okay so I may be jumping the gun a little bit there, but I feel like Winter may have overstayed it's welcome again- will it never learn? Let's just say I am looking forward to tucking away my woolies as SS14 takes the candy coloured reigns.

On that note, I am sure you are all astute enough to have noticed the first drop of Spring delights in stores now (did somebody say & Other Stories humbug striped short suit?), and though I could bore you in writing up my extensive list of pre-Spring hits that I need in my wardrobe right now (starting with crop tops and moving swiftly on to tennis skirts and chiffon culottes) I will resist. It is also just under two weeks until Valentines day, so I will probably post lots of lingerie. In the mean time, chaps, just look to the (proper fit) Rosie Huntington Whiteley collection at M&S for a failsafe gift for your lady friend. Add some Champagne truffles and you're on to a winner.