It's the dreaded wedge.....

...which we simply can't ignore anymore as they're everywhere.  Granted you may still think they are the most repugnant piece of footwear on the planet - and for you, I'm planning another blog on more mainstream wedge ankle boots which may float your boat. 

However personally I am still a massive fan.  I have two pairs of Ash wedges, black leather Madonna wedges with studs which I got 18 months ago and the Ash Thelma wedges in Clay which I bought earlier this year.  And I am all over them again for this season.

There are a plethora of them around - from the Isabel Marants which I say I find a bit too on the clunky side for my liking (I appreciate the rest of them are hardly delicate and ladylike so I'm completely splitting hairs here) 




My preference lies definitely in the Ash camp.  I have looked at so many pairs of wedge trainers - I'll admit - they're all starting to merge into one.  And I will confess, there are so many excellent tributes out there to the Ash ones that I'm not sure if I can justify spending the (significant) excess on the originals.  My one reticence would be that the majority of the wedges on the high street aren't leather.  But for, in some cases, £150 more (yup that much!) is it worth it? 

So the jury is still out here.  I'll throw the ball into your court and you let me know what you think.

Nearly top of my list is the Ash Bowie Trainer in dark tan  Love them. In fact bought the very similar Birdie in Camel last year but didn't keep them.  Fool. I'm struggling to tell the difference bar about £40.  They are a staggering £199.




However you could have the Linzi shoes Celine for the princely sum of £30.  I have actually seen these in real life and honestly, they're not leather, but they're really not that bad at all.  Definitely worth a look. I also like the darker sole as well.  Was the one reason I didn't keep the Birdies from last year although the lighter sole has grown on me.  On reflection they don't look that great in the pic (clearly the M&S photographer was moonlighting... but they did look much better instore.  Honest guv)



Another tan option which again I've seen and this time tried on and was really impressed with are the wedge high trainers from Next



Again, really good quality and fabulously comfortable.  I was impressed.  Enough to order a pair so that I can make a decision (this is going to be a long arduous process.  Be thankful, be very thankful that you don't know me in real life so I can't bore you to tears over the decision making)

The last tan ones that I have to throw into the mix are a leather pair from New Look, which I haven't seen but do look good online.  My reticence would be that they're suede (that argument falls flat on it's arse a couple of paragraphs down but let's gloss over that) and as I'm a lazy tyke when it comes to shoe maintenance, they'd be fit for the knacker's yard after one good rainfall.  And just to be super pedantic, I'm looking for ones that are slightly higher up the leg.  They *are* lower cut than the rest, of that I'm sure but they're the only ones I can find in leather that are a smidge of the Ash price. (in tan)




Stepping away from the tan and referring back yesterday to my mention of wine/plum/mulberry ie marooney red, I have to say I think these would fit very nicely into my A/W wardrobe.  As I mentioned previously, a really easy way to inject new life into a much loved set of clothes (and hopefully everyone has a core base of A/W stuff that they love) is to introduce a new seasonal colour that works well with what you already have.  I've chosen wine this year but teal and mustard could also work really well. 

So continuing on the wine thread - these beauties caught my eye 

These from Plumo - Ash again but with a dark sole


Probably prefer though these with the dual fabric - leather and suede. Again Ash. Again eye wateringly expensive. The Bea in plum.




But lo and behold, look what I've come across.  From Matalan, for £22.


Now personally I would like them a darker shade of plum but they've got to be worth ordering for £22!  They also have them in a beige/sand if anyone is after a lighter pair.  Lovely for Autumn and I'd certainly consider them if I didn't have Thelmas in Clay. 

Perhaps an easier colour to wear if you're a wedge trainer first timer is black.  Of course Ash do a whole host of black versions but there are plenty of more reasonable versions out there as well. 

There's me saying the other day that I rarely shop in Debenhams (truth be told I honestly can't remember the last time I stepped into one) but here I am with a second posting from them.  I haven't seen any of these in real life but I did see them in a magazine - which says sweet diddly squit about the quality but if you're after black and near a Debenhams they may be worth a look.  I also think from looking at the website that there is 20% off some stock at the moment so maybe a chance to order.

The Henry Holland wedges in Black 



There are a number of other black ones that look good as well 

These Roeselare wedge heeled ankle boots  from Call it Spring (never heard of them so abdicate all responsibility for what they're actually like - we are verging on more clunky....) 




Still at Debenhams (which interestingly is a hugely irritating word to type), are these from Black Odeon


Finally from Debenhams, if you are after something a bit more Isabel Marant stylee, then these are a bargain and, in the navy and cream, I actually think quite wearable. (they're certainly RR1 aged 7's favourite one) Navy Triple Velcro Strap from Follow Me (again blank looks from here.  Never heard of them).  They also do them in a red and cream but that is just too "look at my feet" for me (she says appreciating that the wedge trainer in general is hardly a hide under a bushel item of footwear)


Leaving Debenhams and moving onto another shoe shop which I wouldn't normally go into (it has an interesting array of TOWIE style heels similar to Linzi which I mentioned above) but caught my eye as I walked past the other week is Garage (anyone?!)  I went in and had a look at their wedge trainers and was more impressed than I had expected to be.  They also sell online. 

The Luna in black 



and the Hudson


I could go on forever there are so many out there.  But they're all very much a variation on a theme - it just depends on which of the nuances are important to you - laces or velcro straps?  Or both?  Light sole or dark sole? All suede (fabric if we're going cheap!) or a combo of fabrics.  Colour?  And finally price. 

Normally, for something you're going to get a lot of wear out if, I advocate spending more money.  I'm a huge fan of the cost per wear analogy (and it makes it much easier to justify to The Husband as well) but I think for a lot of people these may be a suck it and see item, so perhaps it's better to start off with a much cheaper pair and see how you get on.  I can fully stand by the quality and comfort of Ash shoes so maybe try a cheaper pair first?

I know I love them and have already bought two pairs which I've worn a lot over the last 18 months.  And so by rights I could probably justify an Ash pair.  I have to say I do like that the Next ones are a bit different and not a direct copy.   And they're a lovely shade of dark tan and are very comfy.  The Plum Matalan ones - well, we'll see.  I'll reserve judgement till they're here. 

Having said all of that, these are my holy grail pair. I honestly (saddo alert) salivate every time I see them.  They're very difficult to get hold of (one supplier only I've found.....limited sizes.....I'm hoping they're just very new stock) and I am beyond tempted to get them but that would be my boot budget blown.  And I really could do with a pair of chestnut ankle boots and black heeled boots.

Oh decisions decisions - I need to do a complete wish list and see if I can truly justify them. 



So what do people think?  Yay or nay?  Have they grown on you or are they still grotesque, mutton and should have been left in the 80's?  Be honest - we can all take it!  Would be a very dull world if we all liked the same things. 

If they're not your thing at all - as I mentioned, I am planning on doing another blog on other wedge boots, which are far more mainstream and a lot easier to wear for most people. 

A quick piece of feedback on the Next pleather trousers - great quality pleather, very leather like.  But huge on the waist.  This is coming from someone who doesn't actually have a waist.  Think tree trunk.  And they were still massive on me.  Insane.  I may well order a size down but fear that will be far too clingy on my legs.  Be interested to hear what others think if they ordered them. 

What I wore yesterday 


Now it had been freezing when I got up yesterday - proper heating on weather!  But it did warm up significantly during the day and I ended up removing cardigan.  Lovely day spent with family. 

Orange & blush silk dress (clearly not dress length on me) - Zara
Distressed biker jeans - By Malene Birger
Clay Thelma Wedges - Ash
Vanilla Roxeanne - Mulberry
Gold bee necklace - Alex Monroe
Sunglasses - Tom Ford

RIght - off for more coffee.  Have a good Sunday everyone! 

Share this:

CONVERSATION

71 comentarios:

  1. Love Ash - so comfy! Got some flat gold ones in the summer and wore them a lot. Had my eye on Thelma in prune for a/w but got chocolate brown ones half price on the outnet and couldn't justify the extra £75 for this season's colour. Really pleased with them.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I've got flat gunmetal ones and I love them. The chocolate ones are just as good for A/W. Unfortunately I now have an unbridled obsession with prune......

      Delete
    2. Ha. Don't tempt me! Give me a month and I may well have justified them!

      Delete
  2. Oooh! I like the Next ones. Primarily because they don't have a big thick white sole. Now to check if they come in a size 43 for my gigantic feet...

    ReplyDelete
  3. BUM! Size 43 sold out. :-( Clearly this is what all my fellow yeti foot friends will be wearing.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. oh what a shame. Is it worth ringing to see if they have instore?

      Delete
  4. RR1 is showing great taste - really like those ones from Debenhams also. I bought a tan pair in Carl Scarpa earlier this year, so the any future purchases will have to be very budget friendly (no Ash for me sadly!) Will be very interested to hear what you think of the Next trainers. Quite like the navy version.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I agree the navy looks fantastic. Will report back on whether I keep them. I thnk they're a really great compromise. xxx

      Delete
  5. Must admit thr Plumo Plums are the first pair I've been tempted by, largely cos of the dark sole, though there are so many viable bargainous versions - great finds! Next tan pair look great too.

    Nic x

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I know, just can't justify the Plumo ones when the Matalan ones looks so similar. Although they may be a minging colour - just waiting for them to arrive......

      Delete
  6. Nope, sorry, just can't love these at all - think it's because my 14 year old son lives in hi-tops and I just see them as too teenageer-y and clumpy. Having been a teenager myself in the mid-late 80's I though I'd never wear burgandy (as it was always called then!) again really finding myself drawn to claret/prune/call-it-what-you-will and also navy as a winter alternative to black.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. YES burgundy that's what we called it! Honestly I hated it till two weeks ago. I am nothing if not fickle........ It's my new favourite colour. Just to stop myself buying everything in that colour now...!

      Delete
  7. Fab post - and I LOVE the Bea in plum - I just wore my new Bowie's yesterday - have you to blame for my love of Ash! Be warned they fit MUCH smaller than the Thelmas and I had to size up. Do you have Steve Madden over there? He has some fab copies here this season...I posted a photo of me in mine yesterday for you and linked to this post - take care!x
    http://poppys-style.com/2012/09/16/weekend-outfits/

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh thank you love!! You look GREAT!! love love love the Bowies - I think I'm going to cave and get Ash ones. Jury's out on the Next ones though (which is absolutely no use to you though - doh!) xxxx

      Delete
  8. I've gone for some half way house options, but I don't really know if they are boots or trainers really - maybe troots or brainers? I got them from Geox - really comfy for the school run though and actually rather nice ....I think. Going to put them on the blog this week! I always find Next has huge waists on them, but them I am a no waister too......so maybe it's not them....umm waffle waffle x

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hadn't thought of Geox ones - let me know when you put them on the blog. I have a school drive as opposed to a run so can wear what I fancy..... (fatal!) xxx

      Delete
  9. Hi Kat, have been waiting with great anticipation for this post - and what a very well researched post it is too. I have been eagle eyed and searching everywhere for the perfect wedge trainer. Unlike yourself I haven't yet purchased any yet and was very impressed on seeing your Ash ones this summer. Was trying to find a cheaper alternative to the beloved Ash ones but am (even after your great post)failing to 'fall in love' with anything else. Seems my bank balance will be taking a nose dive some time very soon. The only ones that have come close was a pair from office called dash wedge in taupe but alas they are not leather but at £45 I cannot expect them to be.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Have to say you may have to budge up on that nothing but Ash will do wedge......... Will try the NExt ones again but the Ash ones are calling me..... (if I can find the bloody things!) Which ones were you after? x

      Delete
    2. I am fast coming to the conclusion that anything else I look at which is not Ash just does not compare!! Such a shame as I don't really want to spend nearly £200 on one pair of boots (my husband would have a heart attack if he knew). So if I buy the Ash ones (tan or beige in leather or suede) I will have to make do with a cheaper black of boots as I need (actually want) boots in black and tan.

      Delete
  10. I can understand why you (and others) like them, but i just can't do it. I'm too tall already, and they are just too 80s for me.

    however I completely ADORE my flat ash trainers, I got them in camel and they are going to be perfect for AW.

    also feeling the love for wine-y tones, I keep going back to the mint velvet site but really need a discount code to be available before I order that fab mini. I would NEVER have considered leather for anything other than boots or a biker jacket, so thanks!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. noooo I'm super tall - am past caring. (although took me forever) But yes, I also love my flat ones. And yes, how fab is wine?! So pleased you like the skirt. Will let you know if I come across a code. xx

      Delete
  11. Try EASY12 for mint velvet - I ordered stuff last week but think it might have finished during the week.

    ReplyDelete
  12. thank you Jill, I just tried it but is invalid. obv missed the boat on that one, boo.

    ReplyDelete
  13. Kat, did your La Redoute pleather trim jacket arrive, and if so what did you think? Mine went back - really disliked the knit. Redoute must secretly have David Bailey moonlighting out his twilight years with them. Pics look fab but close up the clothes are awful! I keep saying never again then get fooled into another purchase...

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. hmmm I never ordered it. I looked at it again and though - who the feck am I kidding - it's going to be crap. And lo and behold, yes it is. I remembered in time that I said I would NEVER order from la redoute again and now you've reminded me - I'm not going to. She says until she has a drink............

      Delete
  14. Life is way too short to wear such ugly shoes!

    ReplyDelete
  15. I've just spent the morning researching these. I love the buckles on the Thelma and fancy a leather pair but I got sawca picture for the Matalan ones earlier in the week when are tempting due to the price. Ok so they aren't the prettiest shoes but they will hopefully make the walk to school less painful.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. hmm honestly they're not "that" great. I"m not a) how comfy they'd be for a long walk or b) how long they'd last. YEs they're cheap, they're very cheap so worth a look perhaps. I'll report back on the Next ones. xxx

      Delete
  16. i wore my black bowies for 1st time on friday and got loads of compliments from other mums. they have a black sole and were really comfy. i prefer the more clumpy black one from ash but alas it has a light sole which i dont like. still prefer a black suede wedge ankle boot but these are more casual

    ReplyDelete
  17. I bought the wine Matalan version earlier this week and wore them all day yesterday. Despite them not being leather they weren't too sweaty and were very comfortable. Please get some wine ones so I can get some inspiration how to wear them lol.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh well that's good to know - maybe mine were just a duff pair. You live and learn! Not sure I'm going to get a solid wine colour. They're not hard to wear but I think I'd get more wear from a multicoloured pair (we're not talking Joseph here by the way....!)

      Delete
  18. Jury still out for me on wedge trainers but looking forward to seeing your wedge boot post as been looking for an alternative to the clark yarras.

    ReplyDelete
  19. I bought the Next ones during the week and love them! My 9 yr old is after a pair so now on a mission to find a similar style BUT flat, ie no wedge!! Nicky M

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Am looking forward to trying the tan ones again. Did they not have a pair in Next? x

      Delete
  20. Coggles.com have the Bowie in Prune for £170 - not cheap but cheaper nonetheless

    ReplyDelete
  21. just seen that plumo is cheaper!

    Arrgh - theres me trying to do a good turn and all that

    Am building up the courage to break out my camel bea's

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks love! It's really the tri coloured ones I'm after and Im so desperate I may resort to paying full price (I hate paying full price for anything!) And yes, get those Bea's out!! Gorgeous. xx

      Delete
  22. I ordered the Thelma in prune a month or so ago, wasn't quite sure when I ordered them, they arrived, loved them, so soft. Wore them first time last wk so comfy. Would like a camel coloured pair just to see me thru the winter (along with some biker boots) x

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Definitely get some. They're fab aren't they and so so so so so comfy! I get so many fab comments on them - adore them. Best shoe buy. xx (how's jake doing with his puffer?)

      Delete
  23. Hi Kat, loved the wedge trainer post. Have been humming and haaing over the Next ones for quite a while, am now seriously tempted. Not sure whether I'll like them on - have always thought you look great in yours - but will give them a go! I have to say I love plum/wine colour - have a great pair of skinny jeans in plum that I adore - don't like the shade too dark though - reminds me too much of school uniforms! Keep up the good work. Take care xx

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Interestingly our uniform is a wine colour - maybe that's why I had an aversion to it....! Would love a pair of wine jeans - ideally coated. Adore the J Brand ones but they're too short. Boooo! x

      Delete
  24. There's an Ash sale on Asos... but not the Cool in Prune that I'm after. Damn!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I know - not what I want either. Hope someone has grabbed themselves a bargain x

      Delete
  25. Sorry but I'm still not convinced. Some of them really remind me of straight-jackets for the feet!! Can't wait to see your wedge boot post though. Saw a gorgeous navy and tan pair in M&S recently but want to read your post before I decide.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Love the analogy! Will be doing it early next week xxxx

      Delete
  26. Hi Kat, I think I drove past you in Sevenoaks this morning! Did a double take! Even saying to my kids "Oh my word, that's the lady who does "Does my bum loook 40"!!! You might have seen a car swerve and two little heads hanging out of the window!! I think the these are the ones you are looking for (if I'm wrong sorry!)
    http://www.harveynichols.com/womens/categories-1/designer-shoes/casual/s420975-bea-suede-hi-top-trainers.html?colour=BLACK+AND+OTHER
    Incidentally, I had a Taylor Stephens party recently, it was great. Emma is lovely and I'm going to have another one in a couple of months time! Alison

    ReplyDelete
  27. Hey hun, i bought the Debenhams ones and felt they sat really weird, the back near the ankle stuck out so you could see down into the shoe. Felt a bit odd on the feet too.
    Was waiting for them to arrive to decide between them and some Steve Madden Lleve ones i ordered. A bit more structured than i was initially thinking of but they're really comfy actually and full suede for £75 (less my staff disc so actually £60) makes them a good buy i think.
    Have also ordered the tan Next ones to try!!!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oooo also, i meant to say, do you know they've got your photo up on Scarf Envy showing the Jubilee scarf pic? Thought i would mention it just in case (got an email the other day to say it was back in stock).

      Delete
  28. Hi Kat, did you order the Next ones yet? I'm tempted to order them but being over here in Oz, I'm a little reticent as they'd cost an arm and a leg to post back if they're crappy. x

    ReplyDelete
  29. Kat, I ordered the black Debenhams HH ones and they are beyond bizarre, look like I've got them on the wrong feet. Obviously the reason they were reduced so much. Hope you get the ones you want.

    ReplyDelete
  30. It's remarkable for me to have a site, which is useful designed for my experience. thanks admin
    Feel free to visit my blog post affiliates

    ReplyDelete
  31. Appreciating the commitment you put into your website and in depth information you offer.
    It's good to come across a blog every once in a while that isn't the
    same old rehashed material. Great read! I've saved your site and I'm
    adding your RSS feeds to my Google account.
    Also visit my webpage : hurry! click here to sign up!

    ReplyDelete
  32. Hey! I just wanted to ask if you ever have any issues with
    hackers? My last blog (wordpress) was hacked and I ended up
    losing many months of hard work due to no data backup.
    Do you have any methods to prevent hackers?
    Here is my blog post - quality link building service

    ReplyDelete
  33. I'm gone to convey my little brother, that he should also pay a quick visit this blog on regular basis to get updated from most recent news update.
    My website: best online casino cfabfbL

    ReplyDelete
  34. It's a pity you don't have a donate button! I'd without a doubt donate to this fantastic blog! I guess for now i'll settle for book-marking and
    adding your RSS feed to my Google account. I look forward to fresh updates and will talk about this blog
    with my Facebook group. Talk soon!
    Here is my weblog : make money online college students

    ReplyDelete
  35. Hi there it's me, I am also visiting this site daily, this web page is really nice and the viewers are in fact sharing pleasant thoughts.
    Stop by my web site :: stock market trading

    ReplyDelete
  36. My brother recommended I might like this web site.

    He was entirely right. This post actually made my day. You
    cann't imagine simply how much time I had spent for this info! Thanks!
    My web page > affiliate marketing scams

    ReplyDelete
  37. Hello! I simply want to offer you a big thumbs up for your excellent information you
    have right here on this post. I'll be coming back to your website for more soon.
    Feel free to surf my web blog : author’S blog read the full piece of writing

    ReplyDelete
  38. There are also many reputed facebook fan page design and fan providers
    who sell their products for a price. This company sends out
    invites from the page to innumerable people and gets the invitations accepted.
    Buy facebook fans or buy twitter followers is a way to increase the
    frequency of customer visits to your site and in other way, to bring more potential
    customers to your business.

    Also visit my website - increase facebook fans

    ReplyDelete
  39. There are also many reputed facebook fan
    page design and fan providers who sell their products for
    a price. This company sends out invites from the page to innumerable people and gets the invitations accepted.
    Buy facebook fans or buy twitter followers is a way to increase the frequency of customer
    visits to your site and in other way, to bring more
    potential customers to your business.

    Also visit my site :: increase facebook fans
    Also see my site > http://st.macgirvin.com

    ReplyDelete
  40. What You Can Gain. Obesity is an epidemic in our society.

    Ingredients.

    Visit my web blog - paleo diet alcoholic drinks

    ReplyDelete
  41. When you're learning chords, you learn and study them for only One Key at a time. Then you can quickly and easily figure out how to play any chord in any key on the spot, whether you've memorized that specific chord or not.
    These hail every little thing played getting rid of barely the sophisticated keys, so you ought to keep effective toward crush extra listed below
    barely a limited area of time.

    Also visit my web site; opm piano chords and lyrics

    ReplyDelete
  42. Douching and unique scented bathroom items can upset the pure stability of bacteria in the vagina and make yeast infections much
    more possible. Because of its anti-fungal properties, it
    is also sometimes recommended for vaginal yeast infections.
    Seek medical or professional help.

    my web site ... chronic yeast Infection After hysterectomy

    ReplyDelete
  43. Keep the sacrifices they've made in mind, and take the time to embrace the understanding of how much these people must love you to have traveled so far for your wedding. Meredith's
    mother suffered from Alzheimer's in prior seasons. If necessary, place a polite reminder on your sign-in page that this is not an informal website, and that distasteful comments will be removed.

    Here is my web blog the knot wedding website amanda isgate and brandon hicks

    ReplyDelete
  44. You should never stop investigating, researching and analysing the
    market to be reactive and play the main role on your market.
    of the Yahoo community. Budget.

    Feel free to surf to my web blog :: Internet Marketing Plan
    My website :: Internet Marketing Coach

    ReplyDelete
  45. A few weeks before the party said the girl's birthday we were going to youth club on Saturday night and the theme was horror. Clearly say the details similar to day, go out with, time and locale for the event. (Just don't forget to take
    some Tylenol for the migraine headache that might result.


    Feel free to surf to my blog post :: 13th birthday party ideas

    ReplyDelete
  46. A few weeks before the party said the girl's birthday we were going to youth club on Saturday night and the theme was horror. Clearly say the details similar to day, go out with, time and locale for the event. (Just don't forget to take some Tylenol for the migraine headache that might result.


    my web site: 13th birthday party ideas
    my webpage > 13th birthday party ideas

    ReplyDelete
  47. For those who are unaware, Vistaprint is a website that has been around for years,
    and it offers a variety of personalized products that can be used for businesses, gifts, weddings,
    and more. Fortunately, our minister has neither, and he's asked very little of us as well. This site helps you find vendors within your local area.

    Feel free to surf to my site ... free wedding website advertising
    Also see my page: wedding website and invitations

    ReplyDelete
  48. With a minimum of 16 dollars, you can accomplish
    a certain total of followers, that is, if you prefer monthly rates.

    It means the more the number of followers, the expensive would be the cost of the package.
    This website is able to deliver one thousand fans within four weeks.


    Here is my blog increase Twitter Followers
    My website :: get Twitter Followers

    ReplyDelete