Birkenstocks, Uggs, Crocs And Converse: Is This Really The End For High Heels?

Life in a pandemic has seen sales of practical shoes soar – but are heels actually set to make an unexpected comeback?

is this the end of high heels

by Laura Antonia Jordan |
Published on

In a locked-down world, no item has been as swiftly exiled to the wardrobe wilderness than the high heel. Because, well, why bother? Nobody is really seeing our feet anymore and when they are, we are probably walking (and walking, and walking). The woman who gets her 10,000 steps in a pair of six-inch stilettos must exist – but she’s a rarity.

So, we've handed it over to flats: Birkenstocks, trainers, stompy boots, Crocs(!!!), and we bet you’ve never worn your slippers so much.Ugg boots have once again been bestowed with It-girl approval and lug-soled loafers are our concession to smart dressing; Kamala Harris appeared on the cover of US Vogue in Converse, as much part of her signature campaign trail style as her pearls. Hunterhas reported an 89% increase in sales of its Original Wellington boot.

Most telling, Kurt Geiger, for the first time, is not including any new heels in its latest collection. ‘For SS21, we predicted that COVID-related restrictions would once again see a dramatic reduction in social events where heels would usually take centre stage,’ says Rebecca Farrar-Hockley, creative director. ‘Creating a brand new heel for next season did not seem in harmony with a world where our customers are calling for flats, sneakers and slippers that bring comfort, cosiness and joy.’

She adds, however, that this is not the end for heels and expects to see a surge in demand ‘when our former liberties have been restored’. Perhaps the kickback is happening already; according to global fashion shopping platform Lyst, in the last quarter, searches for heels have increased 33% year on year.

And, in a way, doesn’t it make sense? There is something liberating, empowering about letting the world get on with going mad and reclaiming control of what we can (Harris in heels at the inauguration ceremony is all the proof you need that you can be a woman who Gets Things Done in both. To put on a fabulous pair of heels is a gesture of optimism that says you know things won’t be this way forever. It’s about investing in your future self and granting your today-self permission to have fun with fashion again (plus, this is the perfect time to test-drive high heels). It's nice to make (a bit of) an effort.

AsManolo Blahnik, a man whose exquisite pumps could woo even the most-dedicated comfort dresser out of her slippers, puts it simply: ‘I think dressing up makes women feel good’. Whether that’s in heels, flats or both is over to you.

Gallery

SHOP: The Best High Heels That Won't Go Out Of Fashion

high heels to shop now1 of 14

Manolo Blahnik, Salvora Teal Blue Satin Buckle Details Mules, £785

high heels to shop now2 of 14

Jimmy Choo, Sae Ballet Pink Suede Sandals with Crystal Chain Embellishment, £795

high heels to shop now3 of 14

By Far, Green Nayla 85 Leather Sandals, £340

high heels to shop now4 of 14

Zara, Leather Heeled Mules, £59.99

high heels to shop now5 of 14

Manolo Blahnik, Jada White Calf Leather Open Toe Mules, £550

high heels to shop now6 of 14

Topshop, JOLIE Black And White Zebra Slanted , WAS £35.99 NOW £25

high heels to shop now7 of 14

Mach & Mach, Double Bow Crystal-Embellished Satin Pumps, £912

high heels to shop now8 of 14

Neous, Sham Gathered, £395

high heels to shop now9 of 14

Jacquemus, Les Sandales Novio leather platform sandals, £525

high heels to shop now10 of 14

Manolo Blahnik, Hangisli Yellow Satin Jewel Buckle Slingback Pumps, £785

high heels to shop now11 of 14

Kurt Geiger, Cream Flared Heel Sandals, £89

high heels to shop now12 of 14

Kate Spade, sheela pumps, £180

high heels to shop now13 of 14

Loeffler Randall, Heeled mules, £299.99

high heels to shop now14 of 14

Dune, Brooch Slingback Heel, WAS £120 NOW £60

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