Fit to be tied: Why lace-up shoes are summer’s most sultry trend

Make a playful statement and bind your ankles with a dramatic bow

At House of Holland, gingham dresses were paired with corresponding pointed heels that bound the ankle

From ballet flats to lace-up heels, this season the best footwear is all tied up and it’s a trend that’s showing no signs of slowing down.

Replacing single straps, lace-up shoes that criss-cross and wrap around the ankle are the style du jour that’s equal parts girlish and suggestive.

It’s a look that’s dominated the fashion industry ever since Miu Miu’s buckled ballet flats hit the scene and this season was no exception as designers trotted a love affair with lace-ups.

At House of Holland, gingham drop-waist dresses in red, purple, and orange were paired with corresponding pointed heels that bound the ankle. While, models at Givenchy wore lace-up sandals with thick socks in red, brown or purple alongside fitted dresses and boss suits with swingy flared trousers.

In contrast, tied-up booties were the lustworthy look at Versace where a club-friendly collection saw bad girls stomp the runway in cropped MA-1 jackets, and bodycon clothes.

Also seen at J.W. Anderson, half the models sported lace-up mid-calf boots in suede and leather while others opted for girlish ballet pump heels that fastened demurely around the ankle with reedy cords.

A trend that makes a playful addition to any shoe collection, the good news is that lace-up shoes not only took great when styled for a night out on the town but promise to add a little dimension to trousers and work-friendly garb too.

So, how should you be styling them?

For lazy days by the beach or a bohemian festival fuelled vibe, pair yours with a floaty summer dress or refined 70s inspired accessories.

Models at Givenchy wore lace-up sandals with thick socks in red, brown or purple (Getty Images)

Likewise, don’t be afraid to introduce them to the boardroom by pairing with sleek trousers and a tucked-in sharp shirt for a look that oozes confidence.

Whatever you choose to wear them with, it’s important to make sure it’s a cropped style that exposes the ankle so the wrap detail doesn’t get completely lost in translation.