The Lesser-Known Shoe Brands I'm Shopping Instead of Zara

Finding affordable shoes that are both stylish and comfortable can sometimes feel like an impossible task. We all have our favourite high-street brands, whether it's Zara, Topshop or Dune, but those under-the-radar labels can be harder to track down. That's where Who What Wear comes in.

I love the thrill of stumbling upon a brand that most people don't know about, I love it even more when it's unexpectedly affordable. Over the last 12 months, I've been keeping a beady eye out for those shoe styles that won't break the bank and have whittled down my selection to four that tick all the boxes. 

Some are new on the scene, and others are old timers that have been catapulted into the spotlight—we're looking at you Teva. So whether you need a pair of simple sandals for your summer holidays (see Ancient Greek Sandals) or fancy a pair of trend-led flats to elevate your weekend look (hello, Charles & Keith), scroll down to see and shop our lesser-known shoe brand edit. 

From Mary Janes and strappy heels to ankle boots and brogues, Charles & Keith is the shoe brand that has it all. Regularly spotted on fashion's finest, it's the style insiders worst kept secret.

Your dad might own a pair, and you'll probably find them in all good camping stores, but Tevas are the unexpected sandal brand that has been embraced by the fashion crowd this year. It's time to channel your inner geek chic. 

You might not have heard of them, but you'll probably recognise Vagabond's designs from street style shots and Instagram feeds. The brand's boots got plenty of love last winter, but now we're lusting after their chunky sandals and elegant kitten heels.

Ask any fashion editor where their favourite holiday shoes are from, and they'll probably say Ancient Greek Sandals. Reflecting the designers' love of Ancient Greek sculpture and mythology, these handmade leather sandals have a trend-led twist.

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