Growing up, the author always had trouble finding the right shoe size to accommodate her large feet. She recalls a humorous incident at a department store where she accidentally tripped her mother while waiting for her to finish shopping, attracting a mix of embarrassment, laughter, and frustration. As a teenager, she found comfort in classic shoe styles such as Converse high-tops, ballet flats, and men’s penny loafers. However, as she entered the workforce, she faced challenges finding proper evening heels for events like the Met Gala. After years of experimenting with different sizes and styles, she realized she had been wearing the wrong size shoe all along.
In 2022, while preparing for the post-pandemic Met Gala, the author discovered that her feet had grown to a size 42, much larger than the size 40 she had believed herself to be. She reflects on the limitations the fashion industry has historically placed on shoe sizes, with size 40 and 41 being the largest available for women’s shoes due to economic reasons. Fortunately, there has been a shift towards more inclusive sizing in recent years, allowing individuals with larger feet to find more options in the market. The author recounts her experiences sourcing shoes for celebrities and colleagues with feet in the 41-plus club, highlighting the importance of accessibility in the fashion industry.
The author discusses her love for size-inclusive shoes from brands like Chanel, Prada, and Manolo Blahnik, which have helped her navigate her newfound size 42 feet with confidence. She acknowledges the significance of carrying backup shoes in her XL tote during events like the Met Gala, where last-minute emergencies might arise for herself or fellow 41-plus friends. Embracing her larger feet has become a journey of self-discovery and empowerment, as she adapts to the changing landscape of shoe sizes in the fashion world.
The author explores the trend of oversized and exaggerated shoe styles from designers like Balenciaga and Loewe, which challenge traditional notions of footwear. These clodhopper designs, such as supersized sneakers and puffy pumps, have gained popularity in the fashion industry and on social media platforms like TikTok. While these avant-garde designs may not be for everyone, they signal a shift towards embracing unique and unconventional shoe aesthetics in the post-pandemic fashion landscape. The author muses on this trend, revealing a new appreciation for bold and statement-making footwear styles.
In conclusion, the author reflects on her personal journey of reconciling her large feet with the ever-changing world of fashion and footwear. From childhood mishaps to professional challenges, she has navigated the complexities of finding the right shoe size while maintaining her sense of style and confidence. As the fashion industry evolves to be more inclusive and diverse, she embraces her size 42 feet with pride and openness to new shoe trends and styles. Embracing her big feet has become a symbol of self-acceptance and empowerment, highlighting the beauty of individuality and uniqueness in the world of fashion.
