A flat approach: my case for the pump

I have a confession to make – I am addicted to pumps. I can’t help it; I just love their comfort and innate sense of style. Heels are all very well for a night out; a midi heel works wonders in the office but if I’m honest the shoe most likely to have me lusting is the ballerina pump. It’s the way they look cute paired with a dress; sporty in summer with shorts but best of all, classy and sophisticated with a pair of skinny jeans.

The pump v heels

I don’t want to take anything away from heels; they have their place. The problem is that a bit like a WAG in a body con dress and stilettos, they can look like the wearer is trying too hard. Dress two women in a pussy bow blouse and dark skinny jeans, then put one in killer heels and the other in delicate pumps. Granted option one will win hands down for a night out, but when it comes to day time attire, in my opinion the lady in heels will look a little desperate to impress, a little too ‘look at me, I’m so fashionable and sexy.’ Whereas the pumps lady will appear too cool to care, she knows she looks good and doesn’t have to totter around to prove it. Plus if an impromptu walk is suggested she can happily agree, which gives her that ‘girl next door, I can do anything you can do’ vibe. The girl in heels will have to decline and most probably miss out on feeding the ducks.

The flat rules

To give the right impression the pump needs to be smart. Nothing tattered or with a heel that’s been pushed down from weeks of wear. If such a thing exists as a pump collection, and it should, in every girl’s wardrobe, then it should contain five classic looks. The pointy pump – generally in black velvet or patent leather, it works for the office or smart days out. The playful pump – something either block colour or trendy print, for jazzing up jeans in a second. The sparkly pump – ladies, we all know that a little bit of glitz is essential now and again, why not add it with your shoes? The classic pump – a plain Jane style for everyday wear. And finally the jeweled pump – it might sound similar to the sparkly but it’s not, this is sophisticated bling, not playful sparkle, and it could even go with a dress for a night out.

It might be controversial, my favoritism towards flat, but I can’t deny it any longer. It doesn’t mean I don’t wear heels, I do, and regularly. But my mantra is simple – if you have to practice walking in them, or you have any doubt whether those three-inch front platforms look a little too tarty, then ditch the heel and embrace the pump. You feet and your fashion reputation will thank you.

If you’re after a pair of pumps to complete your collection then visit www.cafelamoda.co.uk. Cafe La Moda gathers all the latest fashion and beauty finds in one place so it’s your one stop online shop.