Fit to be tied: Why lace-up shoes are summer’s most sultry trend

Make a playful statement and bind your ankles with a dramatic bow

Sarah Jones
Thursday 22 June 2017 00:15 BST
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At House of Holland, gingham dresses were paired with corresponding pointed heels that bound the ankle
At House of Holland, gingham dresses were paired with corresponding pointed heels that bound the ankle

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From ballet flats to lace-up heels, this season the best footwear is all tied up and it’s a trend that’s showing no signs of slowing down.

Replacing single straps, lace-up shoes that criss-cross and wrap around the ankle are the style du jour that’s equal parts girlish and suggestive.

It’s a look that’s dominated the fashion industry ever since Miu Miu’s buckled ballet flats hit the scene and this season was no exception as designers trotted a love affair with lace-ups.

At House of Holland, gingham drop-waist dresses in red, purple, and orange were paired with corresponding pointed heels that bound the ankle. While, models at Givenchy wore lace-up sandals with thick socks in red, brown or purple alongside fitted dresses and boss suits with swingy flared trousers.

In contrast, tied-up booties were the lustworthy look at Versace where a club-friendly collection saw bad girls stomp the runway in cropped MA-1 jackets, and bodycon clothes.

Also seen at J.W. Anderson, half the models sported lace-up mid-calf boots in suede and leather while others opted for girlish ballet pump heels that fastened demurely around the ankle with reedy cords.

A trend that makes a playful addition to any shoe collection, the good news is that lace-up shoes not only took great when styled for a night out on the town but promise to add a little dimension to trousers and work-friendly garb too.

So, how should you be styling them?

For lazy days by the beach or a bohemian festival fuelled vibe, pair yours with a floaty summer dress or refined 70s inspired accessories.

Models at Givenchy wore lace-up sandals with thick socks in red, brown or purple
Models at Givenchy wore lace-up sandals with thick socks in red, brown or purple (Getty Images)

Likewise, don’t be afraid to introduce them to the boardroom by pairing with sleek trousers and a tucked-in sharp shirt for a look that oozes confidence.

Whatever you choose to wear them with, it’s important to make sure it’s a cropped style that exposes the ankle so the wrap detail doesn’t get completely lost in translation.

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