why caged sandals have become my favourite footwear — That’s Not My Age

Photograph: Clara Molden for the Daily Telegraph

Does a deep appreciation for laid-back neutrals and fisherman sandals make me a Coastal Grandmother? I hope not. By now, I’m sure you have heard about the latest TikTok trend, popularised by a 26-year-old Californian who doesn’t live by the coast. Apparently, geography is not an issue and neither is being an actual grandma. The trend is based around the aesthetic of Nancy Meyers’ films, The Hamptons lifestyle and expensively-dressed women like Diane Keaton and Meryl Streep. Think wide-leg, wafty chinos and luxury cashmere or cotton knitwear, in neutral colours and natural fibres. Not a pinny in sight. My very own Coastal Grandmother was never seen without one…According to Glamour, Nancy Meyers recently shared an article stating that Coastal Grandmother videos have been viewed a billion times on TikTok, saying, ‘That’s a lot of views for a pair of khaki pants, a GAP sweater, and a bucket hat!’ You’re not kidding.

Socks and sandals at Toast

My foray into fisherman sandals fortunately has nothing to do with #coastalgrandmothers and TikTok fads, but everything to do with practicality and timelessness. Unlike my Teva’s and Birki’s, fisherman’s sandals lend a more elegant edge and are versatile enough to wear with cotton dresses, full skirts and a favourite pair of jeans. And the most important requirement of all: maximum bunion protection. No one wants to see my knobbly feet and to be quite honest, I would prefer to keep my podiatry problems covered. There’s also no need for a fresh pedicure  – and these sandals even look good with socks. Yes, really!

Some of my favourite fisherman sandals can be found at Hereu, a lovely Spanish label which excels in very cool, understated leather accessories (also available at Matchesfashion.com and Farfetch.com).The best-selling Pesca is a winner and comes in seven different shades, alongside a heeled and a chunky sole option. Russell & Bromley are running a lovely, classic leather version  called the Siracuse which is what I’m wearing in the photograph.  Check out J Crew simple shiny sandals, now half price in the sale (from $70). If you’re after a more eco-conscious option Blackhorse Lane Atelier has just launched a vegetable- tanned leather sandal in red, navy, black, camel and dark brown (£125), Grenson has a version of the classic, caged design, almost sold out in tan leather but still available in black (it’s a little bit like the shoes my dad used to wear for Crown Green Bowling) and US sustainable brand Everlane have a cool, everyday style with a thick sole. I’m also into the chunkier styles, like this sturdy pair from Oliver Bonas and the Loch style at Dune (both dupes of the very pricey designer sandals at The Row).

The Pesca sandal – Hereu

I’ve definitely become a fisherman’s friend this summer.  More on the Coastal Grandmother trend HERE.

PS I think it should be fisherman’s sandals but everyone else is using the singular…

STYLE NOTES

In the top photo I’m wearing my own cotton shirt from Arket ( it’s a couple of years old, but they do have a similar shade in linen, this summer). Loaned for the Telegraph shoot: The wide-leg trousers are from COS. Leather Siracuse sandals are by Russell & Bromley. Earrings are Bar Jewellery. Salo sunglasses by A. Kjaerbede at Wolf & Badger.

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