Shapen Poppy Review
Affiliate Link: Buy Shapen Poppy
Discount Code: BAREFOOTBRIT5
The Shapen Poppy is an elegant barefoot shoe, specifically designed for formal occasions. With its combination of a thin sole, premium materials, and a minimalist aesthetic, the Poppy stands out as the world’s first barefoot pump, perfect for those who prioritise style and barefoot comfort. Let’s dive into the specifics of this unique design and see how it performs in terms of comfort, durability, and overall suitability for special events.
Barefoot Feel
The 3mm thin sole of the Shapen Poppy offers exceptional ground connectivity, a hallmark of barefoot shoes. This sole thickness strikes a balance between providing protection and enabling a close-to-the-ground experience, making it ideal for formal occasions where maintaining a natural foot movement is still desired. Unlike most conventional pumps, the Poppy lets your feet experience the freedom and flexibility barefoot wearers cherish, without compromising on elegance. Whether you’re standing for long periods or moving across different surfaces, this thin sole delivers a tactile experience that’s rare for shoes of this category.
Leather Quality and Flexibility
One of the standout features of the Poppy is its use of premium leather, which provides not only a luxurious look but also a soft, flexible fit. The leather quickly moulds to your foot’s shape, enhancing comfort with every wear. As someone with wide feet, I found the wide version particularly accommodating. Initially, my tailor’s bunion caused a slight tightness, but after wearing the shoes around the house with an extra pair of socks, the leather stretched to perfection. This kind of adaptability is crucial for those with foot issues, allowing for a custom fit over time.
Durability and Comfort
Despite its delicate design, the Shapen Poppy is impressively durable. The high-quality leather retains its shape and finish even after multiple wears. I wore mine to a family wedding in Perth, Australia, and from morning until midnight, they performed beautifully. The shoes didn’t rub or cause any discomfort, which is a major plus for formal events where you’re on your feet for long periods. In comparison to traditional heels, which often become unbearable after a few hours, the Poppy provided all-day comfort without the need for a shoe change. I found it amusing when other women at the wedding switched to flip-flops after the ceremony, while I happily danced the night away in my Poppies!
Sizing and Fit
The sizing is another highlight, as Shapen offers both regular and wide options. I opted for the EU38 wide, and for reference, my feet measure 24.2cm. The wide version fit perfectly on my left foot, but the right needed some breaking in due to my tailor’s bunion – this was a simple procedure where I just wore a couple of socks on that one foot for a few hours when I just received the Poppies. For anyone concerned about sizing, it’s essential to follow the size guide carefully, especially if you have foot irregularities or prefer a roomier fit.
The variable strap design is a lovely feature, allowing for a customised fit around the ankle, and the option to purchase decorative accessories means you can switch up the look to match different outfits. This flexibility makes the Poppy not just a one-time event shoe but a versatile addition to your wardrobe. You can simply slip out the standard leather strap for another ankle decoration of your choice.
Colour Choices and Styling
One of the aspects I particularly love about the Shapen Poppy is the range of colour options. There are several available now on the Shapen website, from classic neutrals to bolder tones, which means there’s something to suit every occasion. I went for a more understated colour for the wedding, but I can see myself picking up another pair in a different shade for other events – I love the new pink and yellow options.
Ordering Process and Returns
If you’re purchasing from the UK, you have two main options. You can order directly from Shapen, and as long as your order is under £135, you won’t have to worry about customs fees. Alternatively, if you prefer a more localised experience with easy returns, Happy Little Soles carries the Poppy and other Shapen models in stock, offering free returns on all orders. The delivery process from Happy Little Soles was efficient, and their customer service is top-notch, making it a hassle-free experience.
Verdict
The Shapen Poppy is the perfect combination of elegance, comfort, and barefoot functionality. Whether you’re attending a wedding, a formal dinner, or any special occasion, these pumps offer a level of comfort that most heels simply can’t match. The ability of the leather to stretch and conform to your foot, combined with the minimalist 3mm sole, makes these a standout option for anyone looking for barefoot shoes that don’t sacrifice style.
For those in the market for formal barefoot footwear, the Shapen Poppy is a brilliant investment. Just be sure to select the right size and width, and you’ll have a shoe that looks stunning while providing the natural foot movement we all seek.
Affiliate Link: Buy Shapen Poppy direct or from Happy Little Soles
Discount Code: BAREFOOTBRIT5 or BAREFOOTBRIT – Shapen website and at Happy Little Soles!
Brit👣
