Brogues

Women’s brogues as a timeless addition to your footwear collection

Could women’s brogues really be the most important shoe for the modern gal’s wardrobe? We on Zalando are #teambrogue all the way. This highly versatile, lace-up footwear item is without a doubt one of the most popular shoes and has remained an evergreen staple in wardrobes around the world. Broguing is the effect of the perforated top with stitching that separates low-heeled, lace-up shoes or loafers from true brogues.

This famous detail was originally invented as a drainage system but has become a fashion detail synonymous with Oxford and Derby in the UK and the academic life that first commercialised this preppy look. So, what gives women’s lace-ups and brogues their trend longevity? Dating back to the 19th century, the original design of brogues came from far humbler backgrounds than the fashion-forward places they find themselves in today.

Thank goodness they have prevailed, as we find ourselves using them as a modern alternative to heels, pumps and trainers. Appealing to all generations, women’s brogues and lace-ups bring comfort and easy-to-wear trendiness that seamlessly integrate with just about any outfit.

Women’s lace-up shoes stomp effortlessly into your working world

Walking to work or being active in the office shouldn’t put a dampener on your fabulous outfit choices. Choose women’s lace-up shoes and incorporate slim or chunky variants into your work apparel to achieve a professional, chic look that won’t compromise style or comfort. Whether worn with a suit, a knee-length skirt or with jeans and a preppy jumper, a trendy pair of brogues will provide a sleek yet contemporary appearance every time.

Having a menswear heritage and inspiration has been an advantage to conventional brogue shoes. The flat, hardy shoe instantly lends itself to trends that steer towards both androgyny and femininity with ease, making them as perfect for tomboys as fashionistas. Marry with cigarette trousers with just enough ankle showing, a tailored shirt and a blazer. Add a red lip and smoky eye for instant Parisian elegance.

Effortless weekend looks come together with brogues worn with ankle socks and willowy skirts, and with designers from top fashion houses contributing to this impressive collection, you can find pairs that range from fundamentally functional to absolutely show-stopping.

Which style of brogues shoe for women to choose?

There’s no doubt about it, you will get the best possible mileage from a pair of multi-purpose flats like brogues. Deciding where to start when you have so much to choose from is the tough part. Start with conventional, classic, timeless colours that will be easier to combine with more outfits. Black or tan are two safe bets.

Grey is another versatile shade, one that matches perfectly with either sartorial pants or Capri-length jeans for running errands any day of the week. White is a neutral that can be the focal point of your outfit if brogues are in the fashion equation. You can even choose pops of colour and all-time feminine hues.

Once your brogue addiction takes hold, you can explore variants such as flatter or chunkier heels or the classic loafer style, all available on Zalando. If you are looking to bling your brogues up a bit, check out lace uppers or look for the ultra-trendy variants that combine three to four colours of leather insoles that are pure works of art.