CATWALK WORTHY CREEPERS

Spring 2011 saw Prada pioneer chunky soled footwear with their creeper brogues, but who would've guessed they were paving the way to an explosive return of the classically iconic brothel creeper? Donned originally by soldiers in the post-WWII era, brothel creepers are most famous for their association with the Teddy Boy culture of the 1950s. Traditionally worn with drainpipe trousers and drape jackets, the creeper quickly became a distinguishing factor in an already highly recognisable silhouette.

Yet with Prada at the forefront of footwear revolution, and androgyny at its peak, creepers are no longer just for boys. Fall 2011 catwalks shook under the clomping footsteps of so many heavy-soled shoes as designers manned up their collections with a hefty dose of crepe soles, leather and suede. While Ashish models bore black leather single soles graffitied with slogans such as "Hug Me" and worn with ripped up jeans and spider web-print tights, Damir Doma chose pointed creepers to complete his collection.

The classic creeper took its fair share of the limelight, but that isn't to say that adaptations weren't welcomed with open arms. Never one to be upstaged, Burberry Prorsum took the creeper to a whole new level (quite literally) with their wedged version of the beloved original. Featuring latticed black leather and secured with shining silver buckles, these reinvented beauties were hefted down the runway with exceptional vigor as the British-based luxury brand proved that making a trend your own is the best way to do it.

Aside from the aesthetic plus sides of owning your own, if you're looking to add a little extra height without the cost of comfort, brothel creepers are without a doubt the shoes for you.