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If there is one shoe defining 2011, it has to be the brogue. Suitable for men and women, the brogue was a welcome return to sensible footwear. On the feet of every fashionista, model and celeb, people rushed in their droves to snap up brogues. The history of the brogue though, comes from Scotland and shoe shop favourite Office, has gone back to the brogues’ roots for their latest design.
Modern brogues trace their roots to a rudimentary shoe originating in Scotland that was constructed using leather with perforations that allowed water to drain from the shoes when the wearer crossed wet boggy terrain. The word ‘brogues’ originates in the late sixteenth century and is a derivation of the Irish and Scots Gaelic ‘brōg’, taken from the Old Norse ‘brók’ meaning leg covering. When brogues first grew in popularity, they weren’t considered suitable for social occasions. However, fashions of course change and recently the brogue has seen a resurgence.
Office’s ‘Move Over’ brogues (£58) are particularly cute and available in two colourways – taupe/off white and pink/tan (great choice for spring). Made of super soft leather, these kilt clad flats will be the perfect addition to any Scot’s Burns supper on the 25th of this month. With a raised heel, they provide more support than your average ballet flat.
I don’t suggest wearing them in boggy terrain, but they should hold up well in the spring showers. Wear with jeans (skinny or flares), skirts or dresses. They particularly suit a vintage vibe of dress, a cute tea dress or pleated mini skirt. Wear them with confidence and avoid mid-length skirts which together could look dowdy. If these don’t float your boat, Office have plenty of alternative flat styles including ballet pumps, deck shoes and boots.
