Why “No Trainers” Sent Me Shoe Shopping

“No trainers.” There is a certain point — and I'm sure everyone comes across it at some point — maybe at a new restaurant, bar, work event, club, birthday or other celebration, or even while traveling abroad. And amongst the dress code, you hear it: “No trainers.”

The dress code sounds perfect. You already have your favorite dress, those cool trousers and that specific top you’ve been waiting to wear. You’re excited. Then it echoes: “No trainers.”

Image via @styledbysaree

The Panic of “No Trainers”

You think of the flats you've had forever and realize you haven't worn them since you were a tween. Then there are the flip-flops that are, well, just flip-flops and definitely not appropriate, or the heels you wore to prom a while ago.

Suddenly, you realize you own no shoes. Usually, you'd throw on a pair of casual trainers that just work, but now you can't. So, in conclusion, you own no shoes. Since when do you own no shoes?

You're panicking. You're spiraling. At least I was.

 Image via @ayeyiathome

And this was the exact catalyst that sent me on the hunt for my perfect heel. Because why am I this old, have done a reasonable amount with my life, and don't own the perfect shoe?

I wanted shoes that could fit every category: dressed up or down, worn to work, the club, brunch or dinner. I was intimidated by the shape, the height and the style. How should they fit? How high is too high? Should the heel feel like it's about to snap? What should they feel like? What should I feel like? Are they ever going to be comfortable? Does everyone just suffer in silence? Should I do the same?

Image via @ayeyiathome

There are so many factors to consider when choosing a shoe, and in this case, a heel. I decided I needed one — firstly because I didn't already own any, and secondly because I wanted to feel like a heel could make me feel capable, powerful, confident, elegant, beautiful and charismatic all at once.

I hadn't realized the countless options, or the slight yet obvious differences between every shoe I tried on. It was exhausting and intimidating, and then I found the one.

The shoe.

Image via @ayeyiathome

Finding the One

Eventually, I found a brown kitten heel, relatively close to the ground, with a well-supported heel on the thicker side. So far, I've worn them to my birthday dinner, a university presentation and a friend's birthday brunch, and with every wear, I felt more like myself than ever.

My birthday dinner was nothing short of special, I'd never felt more academically prepared, and I've never carried a friend's birthday cake with such poise. Nothing was missing.

Image via @ayeyiathome

The hunt for the perfect shoe can be a difficult one, especially for a first-timer. It's not just about the fit or the color; it's about how the shoe makes you feel. Unfortunately, I can't outline the specifics of that feeling, but you'll know when it's right.

Good luck, and happy heel hunting to all.