In the morning, standing in front of the closet, it's often the same dilemma: comfort or style? The answer is: neither. "Casual chic" is precisely that subtle balance between a relaxed outfit and an elegant one. And in this equation, it all comes down to your feet.
While sneakers have long reigned supreme, women are now rediscovering the joy of city shoes. They immediately bring character to an outfit. But then, which women's casual shoes should you choose to walk around all day without hurting your feet? We decipher the essentials to have in your wardrobe.
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What is casual style?
Literally, "casual" means "relaxed". But be careful, in fashion, that doesn't mean sloppy. It is the art of dressing for real life. Clothes in which you can move, walk, and live, without feeling like you're wearing a costume.
The secret to a successful look is balance. You mix simple basics (good jeans, soft knitwear) with more structured pieces. This is where the shoe is decisive: it must be comfortable enough to run after a bus, but chic enough to impress in a meeting. It's elegance without the effort.
The new essentials of casual style
Long judged too classic, city shoes are making a smashing comeback. Why? Because they have this unique power to "twist" a basic pair of jeans into a sharp outfit. Unlike a sneaker that can sometimes be too sporty, a loafer or a derby structures the silhouette.
But for the look to remain "casual," comfort must be total. Forget rigid leathers that cut into your heel. The trend is towards soft materials that mold to the shape of the foot.
Top women's casual shoes
To perfect your chic and relaxed look, here are the three models of casual shoes to bet on this year. These elegant vegan shoes are safe bets that transcend seasons.
1. The essential Loafer
It's the star of the moment. Borrowed from the men's wardrobe, the loafer brings an irresistible "preppy" touch. At Zèta, we like it with a slightly thicker sole to break its overly well-behaved look, or colored (burgundy, cow print) to wake up an all-black look. It is the all-terrain shoe par excellence.
2. The Derby
Finer than the loafer, the derby is perfect for those who are looking for optimal support thanks to the lacing, while remaining elegant. It is ideal for adding a touch of seriousness to a very casual outfit, like wide jeans or a flowing skirt.
3. The return of Ballerinas
Forget the flat ballerinas of the 2000s that hurt your back. The modern version, often revisited with a strap ("Mary Jane" style), offers better support and a very feminine allure. It is the "easy" shoe that you slip on like a slipper, but which immediately dresses up the ankle.
3 Outfit ideas for women's casual shoes
Outfit 1: Cozy layering
For a Sunday in the city or a relaxed workday, comfort is king. We bet on washed wide-leg jeans, which we associate with a nice play of layering on top. The idea is to let a striped shirt peek out under a pale yellow knit polo for a very cozy effect. To structure this loose silhouette, the burgundy loafer is the ideal ally. The little detail that changes everything? Don't hesitate to show off a pair of white ribbed socks. It's the retro touch that keeps your ankles stylishly warm.
Outfit 2: Maritime elegance
Who said flat couldn't be feminine? This look proves the opposite by revisiting the great classics of the wardrobe. Imagine a short textured skirt married to the timeless sailor top, all warmed up by an oversized navy blue pea coat worn open. On the feet, the brown vegan leather loafers perfect the ensemble, especially if worn with high beige socks. It's an excellent alternative to boots for the mid-season: lighter, resolutely modern, and it elongates the leg!
Outfit 3: The bold twist
Who said flat couldn't be feminine? This look proves the opposite by revisiting the great classics of the wardrobe. Imagine a short textured skirt married to the timeless sailor top, all warmed up by an oversized navy blue pea coat worn open. On the feet, the brown vegan leather loafers perfect the ensemble, especially if worn with high beige socks. It's an excellent alternative to boots for the mid-season: lighter, resolutely modern, and it elongates the leg!
Why choose a committed brand for your style?
Choosing your shoes is also choosing your values. In a world where fashion moves too fast, true chic is to favor quality and transparency. A shoe that you wear daily must be robust and designed with respect for the artisans.
This is the promise of Zèta, an ethical brand that refuses to choose between aesthetics, comfort, and ecological impact. By prioritizing recycled materials (like olive skin) and Portuguese manufacturing, you are choosing fashion with meaning, without ever compromising your elegance!
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