Latest news with #Sorel
Hamilton Spectator
6 days ago
- Business
- Hamilton Spectator
Donald Mugford Shoes closes after 60 years in St. Thomas
Donald Mugford Shoes is closing its signature store, at 429 Talbot Street, St. Thomas, at the end of August. After 60 years selling fine shoes and clothing, the family has decided to retire the trademark and sell the building. Founded by Donald and Merle Mugford – and supported through the years by their offspring Murray, Jodi and Patti – the family's business boomed in the 1980s and expanded to eight stores. The popular Donald Mugford Shoes store at Westmount Shopping Centre, in London, closed in May after 56 years, and another in Tillsonburg also closed recently after 26 years. Family patriarch Donald, who died eight years ago at the age of 81, was known as a fashion aficionado, designing his own line of shoes, and demonstrating a keen eye for European tastes. The family's commitment to quality products and customer service, according to Merle, attracted people from as far away as Windsor and Toronto, as Donald and Merle travelled to trade shows in Italy, Germany and Las Vegas to buy the latest fashions. '60 years is a long time,' Merle said in a recent interview. She has served as accountant and adviser throughout the business' history, and refuses to disclose her age. 'How much more can you carry on? 'After 60 years, you have to make a decision,' added Merle. 'Do you carry on, or what do you do, so the girls made the decision.' Patti, who studied in the U.S. to become a certified pedorthist, to fit shoes and custom orthotics for people with foot, leg and back pain, added: 'It's run its course. We're tired. We have nobody to take it over. It's time for retirement.' 429 Talbot Street was built in 1910 and was occupied by Frederick Sutherland Shoes until the Mugfords entered the picture. Nine years ago, the family also acquired the neighbouring Shaw's Bakery and Ted's smoke shop to accommodate expansion. Merle said acquisition of the business in 1965 'was probably a fluke.' Donald was a top salesman at the time for Kaufman Footwear, of Kitchener (known for its Sorel brand), and was transferred from Vancouver to London. Coincidentally, the owner of Sutherland Shoes in St. Thomas died, and through some business associates, Donald wound up taking the mortgage for the Sutherland shop. He and Merle already had two children at the time, as well as a mortgage on property they owned in Winnipeg, and Donald had to curtail a promising career at Kaufman's to resuscitate the Sutherland business. 'We were young,' said Merle. 'It didn't really matter as long as we were getting ahead. 'Business was booming then,' Merle recalls. 'There were 14 shoe stores in St. Thomas when we opened in 1965. At that stage of the game, there were a lot of shoe stores across Canada, and all over the world. The shoe business was big business. There were a lot of big stores, and they were all basically independents. 'After the kids got older, we did a lot of European travelling,' she added. 'The Europeans were always one year ahead of the Canadian market.' The shoe store was a home away from home for the children. 'We were always in the store, probably since I was 11 years old, answering telephones on Saturdays, and we always came up here after school,' said Patti. 'This area, this part of Talbot, had always been the hub of St. Thomas,' she added. 'The secret sauce was dad. He was a terrific salesman. Everybody loved him and everybody was coming here from London.' Merle recalled: 'It was a real fashion era. When you stop and think about going back into the '70s and '80s, fashion was a big thing. That's when business really boomed.' People even seemed happier and more optimistic then, she added. However, Patti said the fashion industry has consolidated in the last 10 years. 'The independents are dying. I think there will be a lull for a couple of years and then I think the new people will start coming in, but right now, for the young people, it's simply too much work.' Merle lamented the changes in the fashion industry but refused to blame them or online shopping for the closure of Donald Mugford Shoes. 'The retail market is dying, so who do you blame,' Merle continued. 'This was a very active, prime block. Everything was here. 'Over a period of time, (the previous property owners on the street) were older than we were and of course closed,' added Merle. 'Then in came the hairdressers, in came the tattoo places, and all of a sudden, the whole block was finished. 'Retail in this block was gone,' she added. 'It hasn't happened overnight, it happened in the last 10 to 15 years.' She and her daughter agree that online shopping contributed to the decline in traditional retail sales channels. '100 percent, online shopping is definitely affecting retail,' said Patti. 'COVID started it. 'I can't even tell you how many stores closed after that,' she explained. 'If COVID didn't kill you, then the government funding killed you because either you didn't get it and you couldn't survive, or you got it and you couldn't pay it back, or you got it and you were paying it back. There are a lot of people out there who are still paying it back.' Merle said Donald Mugford Shoes was known as a 'fitting store,' offering wide varieties of styles, sizes and widths for men and women. Mugford sold hand-crafted San Antonio Shoemakers (SAS) products for decades. 'That alone was a big draw,' she said. 'Things definitely became more casual,' said Patti. 'Since COVID the dress shoe business has died. 'Our sales reps started showing up in jeans and t-shirts and my dad used to just go crazy,' she added. 'For him, it was always a shirt and a tie if you were in business. 'It's amazing what the shot did for us, but what COVID did to our lifestyles, what it did to our economy, how people look at themselves, how people feel about themselves, we don't think about how it actually impacted our life.' Error! Sorry, there was an error processing your request. There was a problem with the recaptcha. Please try again. You may unsubscribe at any time. By signing up, you agree to our terms of use and privacy policy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google privacy policy and terms of service apply. Want more of the latest from us? Sign up for more at our newsletter page .
Business Times
08-07-2025
- Business
- Business Times
Amundi expects retail investors to drive ‘massive' ETF growth in Asia and Europe
[PARIS] Inflows into exchange-traded funds (ETFs) are expected to 'accelerate massively' in Asia and Europe, thanks to a rising trend of younger investors who invest and trade regularly, particularly on digital platforms, said Benoit Sorel, Amundi's global head of ETFs and smart beta business. 'My personal belief is that ETF growth is at an inflection point which is accelerating more than decelerating. I have very high ambitions… And with the element of deglobalisation, there is value in being a European asset manager.' He was speaking to journalists on the sidelines of Amundi's World Investment Forum in Paris last month. Amundi last year achieved record assets under management (AUM) of about 2.2 trillion euros (S$3.4 trillion), up 10 per cent from 2023. Based on results for 2024, inflows were strong due to ETFs and Asia segments. Its ETF assets rose 30 per cent to 268 billion euros in that period, driven by record net inflows of more than 27.8 billion euros, including 10.5 billion euros in the fourth quarter alone. Sorel said rapid and 'massive' adoption of ETFs by retail investors marks a turning point for the vehicle. 'My 'guesstimate' is retail adoption is between 20 per cent and 30 per cent of flows in Europe. This was a non-existent segment five years ago.' BT in your inbox Start and end each day with the latest news stories and analyses delivered straight to your inbox. Sign Up Sign Up He added: 'More and more, we're seeing a new generation of investors come into the market. And I think this will happen even faster in Asia, with all the digital platforms and online brokers developing massively (there).' Rapid wealth creation in the region is also a tailwind for ETFs, as is the urgent need for retirement savings. Fannie Wurtz, Amundi's Asia chair, said wealth represents a 'US$100 trillion opportunity', and wealth levels in Asia are rising at a more rapid clip than elsewhere. 'Digital is already here. A third of savings in Asia is done through digital channels, and will continue to grow… ETF as a listed instrument is digitally compatible, and digital acceleration will help market access.' Retirement solutions On the retirement savings gap, she said: 'In Asia, we see more regulation to help the adoption of instruments to ensure the right retirement solutions, given the gaps. If we look worldwide, the proportion of people aged 65 and above is 10 per cent today; it will be 20 to 25 per cent by 2050. There will be massive savings needs.' Sorel said observers had argued that the strong take-up of ETFs last year was because the vehicle offered a convenient and easy way to participate in the US bull market. But strong inflows in Europe have continued this year despite unease over tariffs and economic growth. 'This year, we're under way to the best year ever, with 60 per cent more assets than last year. We really see this inflection as one with exponential growth... Ten years ago, ETFs were used for niche exposure. Now, ETFs and indexing are core, and even used as an active tactical bet. If you take the second week of April when markets were extremely volatile, having the right vehicle to place your order midday is really changing the game,' he said. Among Asian institutional investors, demand for ETFs which are domiciled in Europe and set up as Undertakings for the Collective Investment of Transferable Securities (Ucits) funds is also rising, he said. Compared to a US-domiciled fund, Ucits funds offer non-US investors tax advantages, including a lower withholding tax on dividends as well as tax-free income from bonds. In addition, they are not subject to American estate tax. Sorel said expansion in Asia is a priority for Amundi, likely through a direct business or joint ventures. The asset manager's AUM in Asia rose 17 per cent year on year to 469 billion euros in 2024, thanks to inflows of more than 28 billion euros. Amundi has partnered Standard Chartered Bank, which launched the CIO Signature Funds in 11 countries in Asia, the Middle East and Africa. AUM in the funds reached two billion euros last year. The funds comprise multi-asset and ETF portfolios reflecting the views of the bank's chief investment office. Amundi is also innovating to ensure its ETFs are front-of-mind for asset allocators and savers. It has, for instance, rolled out a mega-cap ETF tracking the MSCI USA Mega Cap Select Index. It has also launched an ex-mega cap USA ETF, replicating the MSCI Index of the same name, and rolled out an equal-weight S&P 500 ETF. For retirement savers in Europe, it launched multi-asset life-cycle ETFs which progressively reduce equities exposure in favour of fixed income over the long term, with a low management fee of 0.18 per cent. Deglobalisation an opportunity Sorel believes deglobalisation is an opportunity for Amundi to differentiate itself through its climate commitments, in comparison with US managers which have retreated from climate as well as environmental, social and governance investing. 'In my trip to Asia, I was surprised to find that climate is a key concern. US asset managers are not engaging in climate anymore, but it's still central to what we do,' he said. Global ETF assets rose by a record 27 per cent to reach US$14.6 trillion as at end-December 2024. A PwC survey of ETF managers and service providers found that two-thirds of respondents expect AUM in global ETFs to reach US$26 trillion by 2029, suggesting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 15 per cent over the next five years. But a third of respondents were even more optimistic; they expect the AUM to more than double to US$30 trillion by 2029, a CAGR of more than 18.4 per cent. 'Alongside ETFs' trademark liquidity, transparency and affordability, the ever-increasing choice and popularity of ETF products mean that fund allocations to ETFs will continue to grow,' said PwC. The firm also said that one of the biggest drivers is the 'great wealth transfer' of some US$68 trillion from baby boomers to younger generations over the next decade. 'The popularity of ETFs among young people means that ETF managers are well-positioned to capture a sizeable share of this unfolding market. But the resulting lowering of the average age of ETF investors is accelerating a generational shift in expectations, as ETF managers compete for customers who've become accustomed to high levels of tech-enabled engagement, experience and personalisation.'
Buzz Feed
28-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- Buzz Feed
23 Comfy Shoes For All Your Summer Plans
A pair of classic Arizona Birkenstock sandals, because there's a reason they're basically world-renowned for their comfort. With cushioned pads that contour to the shape of your feet, these sandals are perfect for any outdoor activities or excursions. Sorel Kinetic sandals that pair the sporty fashion and comfort of sneakers with the breathability of sandals. With the combination of a sturdy rubber sole made for traction and the comfort of open-toed sandals, you'll find yourself wearing them all day, every day! Crocs platform flip-flops because absolutely everyone will love these the second they see you sporting them on your next beach vacation. They're comfortable, give you a little height, AND allow you to attach Jibbitz! Dr. Martens gladiator slides for the days you want that ✨punk vibe✨ but don't feel like sweating in your favorite pair of clunky leather combat boots. With an ankle wrap that you can style however you want (by bringing the laces up high on your shin or keeping them low around your ankle), these sandals are incredibly comfortable and durable! Crocs wedges if you've always wished that you could pair the comfort of regular Crocs with the fashion of platform sandals. With a raised insole, these shoes were made to provide added support and stability, making it possible to wear them around all day without discomfort. Toms Majorca heeled sandals for the perfect addition to just about any outfit. Wearing them with jeans?? Super cute! Pairing them with a dress? Fabulous! The chunky heel will give you that little height boost you adore without sacrificing your need for comfort. A pair of chunky heels with braided detailing to bring a pop of color to your outfit of the day, without that pesky break-in period ruining your mood. They can be dressed up or down, and with the small block heel, they're absolutely perfect for that Sunday brunch you've been planning all week! Franco Sarto loafers because some shoes just never go out of style. With built-in padding and a lightweight design, this pair is perfect for the office. Business casual meets effortlessly cool with these comfy loafers! A pair of Cushionaire strappy sandals if you want that Birkenstock feel but without that higher ticket price. They're incredibly flexible, so they're comfortable to wear for long walks across the beach or through the outlet mall. Plus, they have over 75,000 ratings on Amazon, and reviewers swear by them! Some ballet flats because you've always strived to one day reach that effortless Jess Day aesthetic. Reviewers swear there's no break-in period required, so you can wear this cutesy-meets-classy pair with no pain! A pair of tennis shoes for those of you who like your shoes to be a bright reflection of your personality. Just slip these on and get ready to run — these shoes were basically crafted for your athletic-loving heart. Skechers sandal wedges because who doesn't want the comfort of sneakers meshed with the aesthetics of cute wedges? With three stretchy straps to make them easy to put on and take off, these sandals are incredibly versatile and can be worn with basically any outfit your heart desires. Braided hiking sandals with a rubber insole for the perfect addition to your vacation packing list. They're not only cute, but absolutely perfect for any water-based activity you might find yourself partaking in. They can protect your feet from those jagged rocks and help stop you from slipping on those surprisingly slippery boulders you were hopping across. Or, if braided straps aren't your style, a pair of hiking sandals designed with arch support to help relieve some pressure on your joints and make long-distance walking as easy as can be. With adjustable straps to provide a customizable fit, these water-resistant sandals are a great pair to carry along with you for those coastal excursions on your next vacation. Elastic strap sandals because they're super affordable and ridiculously cute. These puppies have straps that hug your feet and a cushioned insole, so they're a great pair to own when that heat starts to creep up, and you find yourself needing a comfortable pair of sandals for daily life. Some high-top sneakers if you really like Chucks All Stars, but you wish they were a bit more affordable and came in a waterproof material. These sneakers are ridiculously comfortable and have an anti-slip rubber sole, so you don't need to worry about slipping in the puddle that you were too busy scrolling on your phone to notice. Plus, they come in a variety of vivid colors! A comfy pair of Fila platform sneakers because your Gen Z cousin has been clowning you over not owning a pair of classic white sneakers for the last six months. These sneakers have made an ultimate comeback since their last heyday back in the '90s — because they literally match everything! Sneakers are not just for the sporty anymore; you can pair these with leggings or dresses! A pair of boho wedges with pearls draped across the top because your feet deserve some accessorizing and bling. With gorgeous color options and adorable beading, these wedges not only give you a few inches in height but reviewers say they're incredibly comfortable, too! A pair of Adidas Cloudform running sneakers that many reviewers have basically sworn are the comfiest sneakers they've ever owned. They're flexible, breathable, and cushioned — literally everything you could want in a pair of sneakers. You will find yourself wearing these to work, the city, and just about anywhere else you can because they're almost too comfortable not to take advantage of! Toms slip-ons because they're known as classics for a reason — and no, it's not JUST because of how effortlessly cute and versatile they can be. They're durable, they're flexible, and seriously, with so many color options to choose from, they can basically match anything. Some low wedge flats for those of you who need a cute pair of shoes for a fun night out, but actually want to be able to feel your feet by the end of the night. With a supportive cushioned insole and a low heel, these bad boys are perfect to pair with your favorite jeans or best dress for a day out on the town. Ballet flats with oh-so-freakin' cute floral cutouts so your feet will be able to breathe without you having to resort to wearing your flip-flops. Reviewers swear there's no break-in period required, so you can wear this cutesy-meets-classy pair with no pain! Platform sneakers if you find yourself most comfortable with a bit of height but still crave the casual sneaker look. They've got durable, anti-slip soles and cushioned insoles — all while being incredibly stylish!
Buzz Feed
18-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
29 Pairs Of Shoes Reviewers Say Are Actually So Comfortable
JW Pei mule sandals that look straight off the runway thanks to their sculptural shape and head-turning colors. But don't be fooled — this isn't a beauty-over-comfort situation. The kitten heel keeps things walkable, and some reviewers even note they're good to wear for concerts *and* don't pinch. Basically, they're your new go-to for any event where showing up and showing out is required. Slip-on sneakers for anyone who flat-out refuses to untie their laces and ends up crushing the backs of their shoes instead. These are made for your chaotic but stylish lifestyle — lightweight, comfy, roomy in all the right places, and cute enough to wear while sightseeing or sprinting through TSA. Promising review: "I love this shoe. I have had numerous comments about where did I get them and how cute they are. They are comfortable and very stylish. I like the worn-out look, so these are just what I like!! I've been wearing them with shorts, but I think they'll look great with jeans. They are very casual shoes but still cute." —debbie them from Amazon for $18.30+ (available in sizes 5–11 and in 30 colors and patterns). A Sorel strappy sandal that looks heavy but feels surprisingly lightweight, so you won't mind walking in them. The secret? A cushy molded EVA footbed with a luxe leather top cover that'll keep your feet happy all day long — whether you're power walking through errands or pretending your sidewalk is a runway. Promising review: "These shoes are perfect! I was looking for a summer sandal that I could walk in/dance in while also being comfortable. I have flat feet and weak ankles so it was a gamble, but these are so cute and comfy. I will definitely check out their other shoes. I see that other people pointed this out, and it's important to note, the ankle strap Velcro is pretty loose so you may need to readjust a few times, but it's not inconvenient enough to return." —FlatfootedGet them from Sorel for $135 (available in sizes 5–12 and in four colors) or from Amazon for $110.13+ (available in sizes 5–12 and in 10 colors). Floral ballet flats — these breezy little beauties have flower cutouts that let your feet breathe (perfect if your dogs tend to bark in the heat). They're lightweight and rollable, so they're easy to toss in your tote for summer commuting or slip on when you're ditching your sneakers at your desk. Braided heel sandals you can actually wear without your feet throbbing in pain. They look just like the coveted Dolce Vita pair, but without the price tag, and are perfect for everything from date nights to dancing 'til your feet fall off (but in comfort, of course). Cutout mules with a pointed toe and a fab cutout to give an extra oomph to your everyday fits. They're chic *and* comfortable — what's not to love? Zou Xou Shoes is a Black woman-owned business that has been creating handcrafted shoes by Argentinian shoemakers since 2015. The styles are easy and classic so they can be worn for years. These mules are handmade to order in European sizes, and they suggest sizing up. So, if you wear a US 8, choose a 39. Promising review: "These shoes are great! The leather is soft and comfortable — no breaking in necessary." —Eileen chaoGet them from Zou Xou Shoes on Etsy for $254 (available in European sizes 36-42). A pair of Toms cutout sandals, aka living proof that heels can be comfortable. With built-in arch support and soft footbed, one reviewer wore them for six hours on concrete — no knee, ankle, or foot pain in sight. And with a design this chic, you'll be wondering how your closet ever survived without them. A pair of veryyy comfy mesh sneakers so you can add some serious styling points to your 'fits thanks to their bright colors and cool design. Reviewers have worn them while hiking, running 5Ks, and even standing for up to 18 hours straight! A pair of platform sandals that'll still give you that height boost without the usual heel-induced regret. It's designed with a rubber composite sole with a unique diamond pattern to disperse friction away from the foot and amp up the comfort. They're the perfect blend of retro vibes with a modern touch. In other words: welcome to your sandals era. Rhinestone-pointed slip-on mules with a backless design and a touch of bling for effortless style. The arch and heel support help you stay comfortable all day, making them perfect for slaying your workday outfits or even heading to a ~fancy~ dinner. Allbirds Tree Runners that offer great ventilation courtesy of the lightweight, breathable eucalyptus tree fiber material. The insole foam is moisture wicking, heat regulating, *and* odor reducing so your feet can stay comfortable even if your feet get sweaty. Bonus points: you can just toss 'em in the washing machine as needed! Just be sure not to put them in the dryer; let them air dry after washing. Promising review: "Why did I wait so long??? I wish I could wear these shoes all day for everything! They're so comfortable and lightweight." —Stone, them from Allbirds for $98 (available in whole sizes 5–11 and 21 colors). Teva sandals with three different adjustability points so you can have the perfect fit around your foot before heading to the beach, lake, or river. The quick-drying webbing (made from recycled materials) means you can go right into the water without sounding like Squidward with every step afterwards. A pair of buttery-soft Everlane flats featuring an improved fit and extra insole cushioning, so when you accidentally hit 10,000 steps in a day, you won't be asking yourself why you chose today (of all days) to break in a pair of uncomfortable shoes. They mold to your feet over time, so don't be surprised if you forget to take them off — 'cause they're that comfortable. Promising review: "I absolutely love the day gloves, and I have them in several colors. They are stylish and comfortable right out of the box. They're great for work. Fit is true to size." —ndog99Get them from Everlane for $148 (available in sizes 5–11 and in 10 colors and styles). Or some budget-friendly classic ballet flats boasting over 48,000 5-star ratings. These are designed to cushion and relieve pressure with 🎶 every step you take 🎶 thanks to the heel pillow. Plus, the insoles are padded memory foam, so it's no wonder that some reviewers keep these in their purses as an alternative to their painful heels! A pair of stylish block-heel mules with a supportive insole and plush foam padding that feel comfortable from the very first (!) wear. They're designed to stay securely on your foot while you're out and about, but still let you effortlessly slide them off the second you're ready to kick back and relax. A pair of anti-slip Bow mules reviewers say are perfect for dressing up for both fancier events (like a summertime wedding) or dressing down for something more casual. The soft flannel upper and surprisingly comfy sole make them ideal for when you want to look cute without committing to sky-high heels. Sam Edelman loafers that'll make you look like the guy in finance, trust fund, 6'5, blue eyes — these are the perfect office shoe since they'll go with dresses, skirts, and slacks! One reviewer even said these are a great alternative to Gucci loafers. Huarache sandals with a design so good, it may just hypnotize you into buying them. They're handmade in Mexico with 100% leather, so these beauties mold to your feet with each wear. It'll leave you with a pair that's not just comfy, but also uniquely yours! Macarena Collection is a small business based in Buena Park, California! All of the shoes are handmade by Mexican artisans. Since they only make whole sizes, they suggest sizing down if you're in between as the shoes will stretch and mold to your feet as you wear them. Promising review: "Can I give these 1,000 stars? They are soooooo comfortable!!! I was afraid because my feet are on the wider side, but oh my do they fit absolutely amazingly well!! Don't hesitate to buy them!! I love them! I love them! I Love them!!" —Jennifer BaezGet them from Macarena Collection on Etsy for $48.74 (originally $64.99; available in whole sizes 5–10). Tioseban sneakers that basically feel like wearing comfortable socks, all because of the stretchy, breathable mesh top that expands with your foot as you walk! You can easily slip these on as you head out the door for any casual or last-minute look. Sizing up a half size if you have wide feet is review: "I like these shoes so much I bought two pairs. My feet are very narrow, and I have trouble finding shoes that fit without coming off my heels. These have the comfort band that makes them very comfortable." —Jane from MAGet them from Amazon for $23.99+ (available in sizes 5–13, wide, and in 32 colors). A pair of machine washable (!!) Rothy's lace-up sneakers, made with a contoured footbed for cloud-level comfort and all-day support. White sneakers are the shoe of the summer, and these are a step above — crisp, comfy, and easy to keep clean. Got a scuff? Just spot treat and toss 'em in the wash. A pair of braided sandals designed with premium nylon to help reduce rubbing blisters, so you won't be questioning all your life choices after a day on your feet. Even better, reviewers say they're super cushioned, water resistant, and hold up well over time! Promising review: "These sandals are incredibly comfortable! I was so relieved they fit well because I'm sometimes an 8.5 but there aren't half sizes, but these fit perfectly! I thought it was so funny reading their website and their warning says 'don't buy these sandals if you don't want compliments.' Well, the first day I wore my sandals I got tons of compliments and every time I thought of their warning. It's so true these are unique and brilliantly styled sandals. The quality is wonderful! I'm 100% satisfied and happy with these sandals! The customer service is also phenomenal!" —ShoreShankGet them from Amazon for $34.95+ (available in whole sizes 5–11 and in 25 colors). A pair of lightweight flatform sandals for a durable shoe that also doubles as a fashion statement. It has a grooved outsole for improved traction, a soft interior, and it's made with breathable leather, which is just perfect for people who have sweaty feet. Now, if you find yourself walking up and down the steps of Positano this summer, your feet won't be crying by the time you make it back to the tour bus — these are built for beauty and endurance! Or some Reef sandals that look just as stylish, but *these* are made with a waterproof material. The dual-density footbed offers enhanced arch support, so it feels like you're walking on you feel like you're walking on something super soft and bouncy all day long. And if (or when) you get caught in a surprise rainstorm, no worries — you won't be the one yelling "MY NEW SHOES." These were built for it. Dr. Martens platform sandals reviewers say feel like "walking on supportive clouds". Despite the chunky sole, they're surprisingly lightweight, so don't be shocked if you catch yourself skipping with joy after realizing you've found the perfect summer shoe. A pair of square-toe ballet flats that bring all the elegance of a dance shoe without the toe-crushing pain. They're graceful on the outside, secretly cushy on the inside, and topped with a sweet little bow for extra charm. Real ballerinas might just eye them with envy... Especially when they see your toes have room to breathe. Some fuzzy memory foam slippers with an open-toe design that keeps them pretty breathable (no overheating here). The soles are waterproof and anti-slip, so you can actually wear them out of the house. People may just think you have tiny chinchillas wrapped around you! A pair of leather sandals that'll give you serious nostalgia for the ones you wore as a kid. Except these are way softer, comfier, and a whole lot chicer. The pillowy sole is so comfortable, you'll want to walk for days... don't say we didn't warn you. 👀 A pair of slip-on mules for an easy out-the-door shoe that's still timeless and elegant. Wear this for work, dinner with friends, or even a quick errand — one reviewer says they feel like walking around in "soft slippers"! These are also similar to (and way cheaper than) Madewell's sold-out Gemma mules. Promising review: "I was so happy to find stylish shoes to fit my small feet! Size 5. That is not an easy feat these days. I love the shoes. When I first put them on, I did not think they were going to be comfortable. However, after I had worn them for just a short while, I realized they were actually very very comfortable. They are also not smooth on the bottom but have a sole that has slight ridges, and therefore not slippery, which you find with some flats. I purchased the brown, which is a really pretty color and goes well with so many styles. I will definitely be purchasing additional pairs in different colors." —Karen Hulshouser Get them from Amazon for $41.01 (available in sizes 5-12 and five colors and patterns). Steve Madden chunky sneakers if you miss your old Fila phase but want to elevate it a bit. They've got the same bold vibe with a serious height boost, tons of comfort, and the versatility to match any trendsetting outfit. Sure, you'll post them on the 'gram, but don't be surprised if they become your everyday go-to. They're too stylish not to! What wearing comfortable and cute shoes feels like: Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.
Daily Mirror
15-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
These Sienna Miller-approved waterproof boots are perfect for summer festivals
Coming with celebrities', like Sienna Miller and Cara Delevingne, stamp of approval, these waterproof ankle boots could be your new best friend for the festival season Sienna Miller was seen wearing a particular pair of waterproof ankle boot s at Glastonbury 2018, and these shoes don't skimp on style for durability and practicality. Described as classic winter duck boots with modern urban styling, these shoes from Sorel are a sworn favourite of Sienna's for getting through the uneven and muddy terrain of festival grounds. Coming in three colourways and sizes spanning 3 to 10, with half sizes available, Sienna's loved Women's Out N About IV Classic Waterproof Boots are currently fully stocked in all shades and sizes. Their popularity is no secret, and as festival season approaches, now's the time to get yours before they sell out. These celebrity-loved shoes are a new iteration of classic duck boots with updated comfort and style. Equipped with a waterproof upper and vulcanised rubber shell, these shoes provide protection from the weather even on rainy days. Constructed from waterproof full-grain leather and suede, these boots feature a heel pull tab that makes them easy to put on and take off. They also boast a traditional lace closure for the most comfortable and secure fit and a waterproof vulcanised rubber shell to keep your feet protected from turbulent weather and wet environments. With cushioned midsoles and moulded rubber outsoles, these shoes win points for comfort and traction, making them ideal for days spent on your feet or walking great distances. Equipped with a Moulded PU Steadysole midsole and footbeds, these boots prioritise your comfort while you're on the move. These Sienna Miller-loved boots retail for £110 and come in three colourways to best match your Glastonbury outfit's aesthetic as you head off to the iconic festival this summer. For alternative waterproof boot options, check out these iconic Greyfield Mid Lace-Up Boots for Women in Black from Timberland, which are currently on offer for £54 down from £90. Elsewhere, these Berghaus Women's Exped Trek 2.0 Tech Boots are available for the reduced price of £71.50, down from £130, on Amazon. Both of these options have been praised for their comfort, but also promise similar waterproof and durable construction that can survive the festival season.
