9 Australian creatives show us their favourite going-out shoe
IMAGE VIA @ANNIENOKA_/INSTAGRAM
WORDS BY DEANA STEPANIAN
Made for pavement-stomping.
These days, more and more, the shoes I reach for on a night out are never the same ones I chuck on for work or to grab groceries. They serve a clear purpose – for when an outing calls for something with a little more oomph (although, I’m still all for dressing up no matter the event).
I’m also known to wear my ridiculously large, four-kilogram New Rock boots to the airport (yes, security makes me take them off every time), but they’re a personal must-have for most of my trips. They’re a true statement shoe, are sturdy and can withstand any weather and terrain. A more recent purchase, though, has been my MM6 Maison Margiela ballerina flats.
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They’re silky and comfy, all while fulfilling my inner child’s princess fantasy. And of course, any shoe kept aside for more special moments deserves some spotlight and attention. So, below, some of our favourite Australian creatives style their favourite pair of going-out shoes.
Martina Martian, she/her, photographer and content creator
I am the “It’s not that far a walk!” friend, so all my shoes have to be able to survive a 10,000-step pilgrimage. These calf boots I found on Depop are soft and stay comfortable all night. I usually pair them with a midi skirt or dress and a big coat, they go with everything.
Sunny Adcock, she/her, writer and podcast host
A pair of Nike sneakers will always be my go-to shoe because I feel totally myself when I wear them. They’re the right combination of casual and cool… While they’re practical above all else, they’re not a careless addition to a well-designed outfit. Instead, the right colour combination actually shows personality and adds extra fun to a fit without dominating the entire look.
My first choice is typically a pair of white Air Force 1s with a subtle splash of colour (usually pastel). However, I was recently gifted a pair of Jordan 1 Low Elevate (pictured), and I’m completely obsessed with how gorgeous the colours look – they’re so me!
Unfortunately, I am incapable of wearing tall heels without risking injury – trust me, it’s not a pretty sight. So while I envy those who can, opting for a comfortable shoe will complement my OOTD more than anything sexy.
Fergus Supacharn Fowler, he/him, Founder of Senzer
My shoe choice is dictated by the pants I wear, which are always extremely baggy – ensuring that I retain maximum comfort throughout my day. I’m sure many people can relate that when styling baggy pants, it’s very hard to find a shoe that doesn’t get completely eaten by them. So I’m naturally drawn to chunkier styles.
My favourite shoe of all time for any and all occasions is the Jordan 4s, a classic basketball silhouette. [I love] the air bubble tech and superior ankle support. [They] have allowed me to quite literally wear these for over 24 hours straight, all while completing a wide range of activities with no pains/issues.
Despite being typically made from non-breathable materials (usually leather), they are extremely breathable thanks to the open panels of mesh. I literally use this shoe for everything other than its intended purpose (to play basketball). I’ve even worn these shoes in the snow – a little water-repellent coat on the mesh, and [I had] absolutely no issues whatsoever.
Camelia Farhoodi, she/her, model and content creator
I would say I’m in my casual era. Most of my heels are building up dust in my closet… so when I’m getting ready to go out, I’m looking for something that’s comfy, yet also dressy… something I can wear if I need to fast-paced walk or dance at an event at 3am. These Melissa x Y Project mules are my current favs. I wear them to party, to breakfast – to basically all occasions. I took them with me to Europe, and I’m so glad I did. A work of art and also comfortable at the same time, we love.
Hana Hong, she/her, Founder of Melona Creative House and content creator
Unless there is a dress code saying I need to wear high heels, I always love sneakers when I go out. My personal style is all about mix and match, so wearing sporty sneakers works well. My favourite go-to sneakers are these Asics ones I got gifted from the brand (thank you, Asics!).
These are not only comfy, but also so easy to match with almost everything – dress, jeans, skirt, pants, and shorts. My best tip is to match the sneakers with something unexpected, like the skirt I’m wearing. As I said, I love to mix and match!
Marly McTaggart, they/she, PR and Social Media Executive
Introducing the irresistibly sexy, vintage knee-high pointed boot! It’s a resounding “Yes, please!” from me, as these beauties have undoubtedly secured the top spot in my going-out shoe collection.
Versatility is their middle name, effortlessly complementing both casual baggy jeans or a mini skirt. I was lucky enough to stumble upon these gems at the Lost and Found boutique on Melbourne’s Brunswick Street earlier this year.
Embracing the essence of the ’90s, these Steve Madden masterpieces not only ooze hotness but surprisingly deliver unmatched comfort for those lengthy walks. As someone who’s an absolute baby in uncomfortable footwear, this feature takes priority for me.
Jordan Turner, he/him, content creator
The name alone has me mouthwatering, but I love how these Prada Chocolate Loafers literally step up any outfit just by wearing them. It’s like the classic brogue/loafer reimagined with chocolate block edges and a chunky sole. I love to play around with different colour socks – shades of grey, beige or brown – and style them with three-quarter length shorts, pants or jeans (nothing baggy though).
Think of an outfit you wear with New Balance sneakers, and replace those sneakers with [these shoes] – and immediately you’re dressed for a dinner party. That’s the vibe, easy and effortless!
Bodie Keely, she/her, Founder of Bodiciab
I ordered the Camper Right Nina Ballerina shoes three or four months ago, and I have not taken them off since. They are so comfortable and go perfectly with every piece of clothing I own. I don’t really go out much, especially in winter – I tend to become a bit of a hermit, so when I do I really just aim for comfort.
I wore them here with a dress I reworked from old button-up shirts, Bleach Jewellery hoop earrings and a Sacred Honeys necklace. Usually, though, I’d probably just wear these shoes with some jeans, a T-shirt and a jumper.
Annie Enoka, she/her, Founder of Annie Enoka
My favourite going-out shoe is my leather mules! They’re black with a pointed, snatchy squared toe. The heel is square but skinny. Although they look comfortable, they’re not always the best option. They’re more of a ‘wea to fancy dinner” type of shoe.
These mules are a vintage brand [and] I bought them from Goodbyes a few years ago. My favourite way to style them is with a scrunched long sock or with baggy pants. These mules elevate any look, they truly have their own personality!
For more going-out shoe options, head here.
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