With Summer coming to an end, Autumn and Winter styles will be hitting shelves all around the UK. From practical ankle boots to stunning stilettos, there are so many styles to choose from, so you’re sure to be spoilt for choice. If you’re looking for a versatile shoe that is also a great all-rounder, court shoes might just be the perfect choice for you. Comfortable, timeless and beautifully stylish, court shoes are perhaps one of the most enduring styles in the modern world and it’s easy to see why.

Here at Moda In Pelle, we have all the information you need on these wonderful shoes and how to wear them. Once you know a little bit more about them, we can guarantee you’ll want a pair!

What are court shoes?

Calaria Rose Gold Porvair (left) & Dolar Black Leopard Print (right)

Court shoes date back as far as the Regency period, though they were commonly worn by men and only became known as as a woman’s shoe at a later date. Court shoes are usually defined as a type of heeled shoe that has no fastening. They tend to be largely plain, with a medium height heel, though as fashion and styles have adapted, court shoes have moved away from their original, traditional look to become a more varied type of footwear.

Court shoes are generally assembled with a low-cut upper and traditionally have a pointed toe, though rounded and peep-toe variants are also pretty common and can look equally as chic. Some court shoes will have a buckle or other embellishments on the front and are available in a range of colours and patterns, making them a great footwear style for every seasonal wardrobe. Court shoe boots are another variant; a fantastic addition to Autumn wardrobes, they are the perfect combination of an elegant shoe and a luxurious boot.

How should court shoes be worn?

Dolar Black Zebra Patent PU

Court shoes are available with a variety of heel types and heights, from a stiletto style heel to a chunky block heel. Both heel types can look phenomenal but if you struggle to walk in higher heels or heels with a narrow width, then a block heel might be the best choice, as they allow for more even weight distribution and stability.

The heel section of a court shoe should fit flush to your foot and ankle but should be neither too tight or too loose. If the shoe is too tight it can cause blisters and other uncomfortable ailments and strangled feet definitely isn’t a good look! If the shoe is too loose it’s more likely to slip constantly when you walk, which can be equally as uncomfortable. If your shoe fits properly but you still feel discomfort, there are a number of things you can do to make your shoes feel more comfortable.

To ensure you get the best fit and make the most out of your court shoes, why not read our blog post on making high heels more comfortable? We have plenty of tips for loosening up new shoes and what you can use to increase your enjoyment when wearing them.

Choosing the right court shoes to match your outfit

Dolar Burgundy Multi Snake Patent Leather

The style and colour of the shoes that you choose to wear can vary greatly depending on the outfit that you’re pairing them with. The beauty of court shoes is their variety; they can be worn to complement both formal and smart casual outfits and look particularly stunning when worn with formal dresses and pencil skirts.

If you’re looking to achieve a traditional look then it’s difficult to go wrong with a pair of classic black court shoes with a pointed toe in a chic suede, patent leather or matte leather. A natural nude or shimmering rose gold are other fantastic choices for both formal and relaxed outfits, as their neutral shades tone in exquisitely with most other colours. Wear with a smart dress for work or with a figure-hugging bodycon dress for a night out.

If you prefer to jazz things up a bit, our Dolar Black and Dolar Burgundy court shoes are a perfect addition to your mid-to-end of year wardrobe. With eye-catching prints such as leopard print, zebra print and snake print, you’re sure to turn heads! Wear with black leggings or trousers and a floaty top to create a sophisticated, modern look.

Shades such as white, grey, black, nude and brown are easy to pair with most outfits, as their soft colouring helps to bring any ensemble together. Contrastingly, brighter coloured and patterned shoes are best when combined with a more neutral outfit, such as a black dress, and are great at bringing a sense individuality to your wardrobe.

Traditional court shoes look wonderful with pencil dresses and skirts or smart slim-fit trousers and jeans. A classic, comfortable choice for a night out or brunch with friends, it’s hard to find an outfit they won’t compliment. Combine with a matching handbag to truly bring your outfit together.

Alternatively, a block heel can look gorgeous with well-fitting jeans or a flowing skirt. Wonderful for everyday wear due to their comfortable design, block-heeled court shoes are a winner. No matter whether you’re having a relaxing afternoon out shopping or directing an important meeting at work, you’re sure to look and feel elegant.

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Now that you know everything there is to know about court shoes, we’re pretty sure you’ll be thinking about investing in your own pair. Why not take a look at our full collection of fabulous court shoes, here at Moda In Pelle? For even more stunning shoes, browse our latest styles and treat yourself to the latest wardrobe essential.