The eternal dilemma: you want to run errands, go shopping or sightseeing and look stylish – but you want comfy feet.
Do you go with comfy (but naff) trainers? Strappy (but hardly stylish) walking sandals?
If, like me, you’re hankering after comfort more and more these days, remember you don’t HAVE to compromise on style when it comes to shoes for everyday wear. There are loads of options for stylish shoes that are designed to be as comfortable as **** AS WELL as looking good.
Now I REALLY wanted to call this post “the art of smart footwear” as it rhymed and sounded cute… it’s actually more about style than just being smart. Though to be fair, these yellow trainers* are pretty smart too.
They’re from comfy shoe experts Josef Seibel, who I mentioned in an outfit post at the beginning of April when I wore a pair of their ankle boots that they kindly gifted to me back in March. I was so impressed by the comfort AND style of those boots that I jumped at the chance to work with them on an in-depth post about their brand, hoping you’d like to hear more about them too!
Disclosure: This is a paid partnership with Josef Seibel (click here for my full disclosure). The post contains affiliate links which means if you click through and buy I may receive a small commission at no cost to you. Any items listed as* were gifted within the last 12 months.
(These might just be the coolest – and most colourful – pair of trainers that I own…!)
The brand was new-to-me earlier in the year, but before I accepted anything from them I checked out the online reviews of their shoes. It seemed that people LOVE their shoes, which are known for their comfort.
Josef Seibel is “one of Europe’s longest established shoe manufacturers… Built to the highest quality, Josef Seibel footwear offers the highest level of comfort for all day, everyday wear” – seems everyone who buys their shoes agrees with that statement.
What I was looking for this time was a pair of stylish, brightly coloured trainers [sneakers] that would do my bold colour choice outfits justice (black or grey just wouldn’t cut the mustard) that could also be worn for things like shopping and sightseeing. I do a LOT of walking and carrying bags and suitcases in my weird and wonderful job as a full-time blogger, and although I love my classic white trainers, sometimes I want something that reflects my colourful style a bit more.
I love my white trainers, but they HAVE been done to death by every influencer and her dog.
Enter the Josef Seibel Caren 06 trainers in yellow*.
These trainers have smart detailing like a laser-cut pattern on the sides and metallic suede on the heel. They’re super-squidgy (that’s the technical term) and the leather is buttery soft. They were comfy right from the first wear, and I’ve worn them to walk into town several times and for the whole day over the bank holiday weekend when we went to a family fundraiser day at our local rugby club.
Because the trainers are not like your usual [dad] trainers, I can wear them with my typical springtime day wear (as here: floral trousers, orange blazer, coral vest top) and they don’t look out of place.
I think they look kinda perfect.
A SELECTION OF JOSEF SEIBEL TRAINERS YOU MIGHT LIKE:
If yellow isn’t your colour there are plenty of other colours – and plenty of other styles – to choose from (a few examples above). Do check out the things people have said about their collections… seems people leave nothing but glowing reviews for their shoes.
My only criticism: Josef Seibel don’t have many pairs in orange at the moment. Let’s hope they add some orange lace-ups to their collection next year…!
On a side note, did you know that May is National Walking Month? Get outside and enjoy the warmer temperatures, the birds singing and the sound of wind in the trees. Try and find at least 20 minutes to enjoy a walk before breakfast, a walk during your lunch hour or a walk to the shops (rather than taking the car).
Next week I’m off to the same fitness and detox retreat that I went to in September – two hours of walking (well, it’s more like brutal HIKING) a day is included in our regime. I can’t recommend walking enough (make sure it’s brisk walking, not an amble) for overall fitness…!
DO YOU INSIST ON SHOES THAT ARE AS STYLISH AS THEY ARE COMFORTABLE? WHAT DO YOU LOOK FOR IN AN EVERYDAY WALKING SHOE? COMMENT BELOW…
Trainers: Josef Seibel*
Jacket: Topshop (alternative)
Trousers: F&F Clothing (I like these and these)
Vest top: F&F Clothing (similar)
Bag: Accessorize (similar)
Sunglasses: Mango (love these orange and pink ones)
Earrings: Asos (alternative)
Fitness Tracker: FitBit Charge 3
SHOP THE ENTIRE LOOK:
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I’m really conflicted about these. Yes, they look good, and I have a similar-ish pair in beige from Geox, although minus the flowers, which are not my thing. But I worry when wearing them that they just look a bit old ladyish whereas proper ugly trainers or white Stan Smiths just look much cooler. I am considerably older than you, so probably shouldn’t worry about all this, but somehow I do. And I must admit, I rather like an ugly shoe.
Author
I know what you mean, Ruth – Stan Smiths ARE cool (I have some myself!), but it’s really down to your personal style, and quite simply whether you just like them or not. I’ve long since stopped worrying about how I look to others, and I tell you – it’s liberating. For example I have no qualms about constantly looking for skirts and trousers with elasticated waistbands; they’re comfy and practical, and that’s all that matters to me.
So the bottom line is: if you like it (whatever it is), wear it. If you don’t, don’t. Forget what everyone thinks!! C xx
Love your trainers. I have one pair of Nike trainers that I have worn off my feet – they aren’t very stylish so I will definitely check these out. They look so cool with your outfit. Enjoy your retreat. Can’t wait to read all about it.
Alison
xx
Author
I love that there are comfy AND stylish options out there, Alison – I know what it’s like to have beloved trainers that eventually fall off your feet, though!! lol 😉
Thank you xx
Catherine, these trainers are AMAZING! I absolutely love the style and the color is to die for. Brilliant outfit, too! So colorful and happy, you just make me smile.
Shelbee
http://www.shelbeeontheedge.com
Author
Thanks Shelbee – they couldn’t BE any happier, could they?!! 😉
As a teacher I know all about the need for comfortable shoes. Being a teacher and being small, I stay away from trainers in my outfits to school. That has got an extra bonus: whenever I put on a pair of trainers, I know it’s a moment to relax or explore new territories far away from the classroom…I love yours Catherine. I am sure you will wear them a lot. Love, Lieske
Author
I’ve already worn them loads, Lieske! I like how you never wear trainers in the classroom to keep your non-teacher life separate… that’s a great idea! Thank you sweetie x
Catherine, I am SO with you on wearing comfy shoes. I’ve always liked white sneakers (or trainers as you say), but the many versions and colors available now make them even easier to wear. These yellow ones you’re sharing are so cute! Love the rest of the outfit, too!
xx Darlene
Author
Thanks Darlene – I love the fact that brands make comfy shoes that also LOOK good, and in fabulous colours too! x
So with you Catherine about comfy footwear ! I am older than you & I have a mental battle going on in my head ……fashion versus comfort !!!! – usually comfort wins as I can’t do heels or totally flats anymore ! These look nice and you’ve ticked both boxes with them, can I ask do you think this brand is true to size ? I bought some plain own brand Next ones with the intention of putting insoles in them, but really need to invest in a better pair for longer wear periods.
Author
Karen here’s your comment – it DID go through! I’ve replied on the other post xx
Adorable trainers Catherine! Or should I call them sneakers now that I live in the U.S? You’re so right about the importance of comfy footwear when running errands, it makes all the difference. My comfy trainers are metallic pink so they match pretty much anything I wear although now I’ve seen your tangerine pair I may add a citrus twist to my rather small collection of one 😉
Author
I tend to call them sneakers too, MT… though as Josef Seibel call them trainers I thought I’d respect that and go with it!! 😉
I like the idea of metallic pink – maybe you and I need to swap?! Thanks mate x
That outfit is amazing! Love the bright colors!
Author
Thanks Stephanie! I’m never one to shy away from them… 😉
A great colourful outfit, love the trousers – anything floral and I’m all over it! Thanks for sharing and hosting the #linkup. Jacqui Mummabstylish
Author
Hehe yes you and me both!! Thanks Jacqui x
Josef Seibel shoes never fail … super-comfy, and quirkily stylish too.
Can recommend, for anyone who’s not tried them (yet)!
Author
Ahhh another fan! Thanks Susan, good to hear from another person who thinks they’re so flippin’ comfy…!
I’m sorry, I linked up a non outfit photo.
What a fantastic colors you’re always wearing.
Author
Not to worry, Nancy! Thank you, you know how I love a bold colour… x
P.S Forgot to say…. super cool that you’re going back to that place for a cleanse / detox again! Look forward to reading all about your second visit x
Author
I’m really looking forward to it Suzy! I’ll be putting lots about it on Instagram stories this time so do follow along there…!
Such a fun colorful outfit! I need to move beyond my white tennis shoes for sure. Extra love and heart eyes for that fringe purse!
Author
Thank you Chrissy – I do love my white ones too but I needed a change, and a bright colour was the order of the day. The comfort is a MASSIVE bonus!
OMG they’re GORGEOUS! Fab colour and the detailing on the side is super cute too. I’m all about flat shoes – especially trainers these days. My bunions just can’t hack heels any more! I must say I’m absolutely LOVING your outfit here, Catherine. Especially those trousers <3
hugs
Suzy xxx
http://www.suzyturner.com
Author
Thank you so much lovely Suzy – I was so happy to see a bright yellow pair! Now just to get them to make orange 😉
I don’t wear trainers but I really like the pattern on these and how soft the leather looks.
Author
They are SUPER soft, Laurie – if ever a pair was to get you to convert, this would be them, surely?! 😀
Oh I DO love a bright trainer! These are darling, and work so well with your outfit. The tiny cutout flowers on the sides are just asking to be worn with floral trousers or a floral skirt. I bet you get loads of wear out of these, and yep, you sure could use them in orange too! xx
Author
They’re a great colour, aren’t they Lisa?! And so buttery soft!! Thank you, and yes I’m keeping my fingers crossed for a tangerine version soon…! 😉