Women Shoes & Boots

Ghillie flats, which are the women's version of the ghillie brogue with the same crossed lacing but a lighter sole, are the traditional choice for dancing and formal wear. Beyond that, plain leather brogues, ankle boots and knee boots all pair correctly with a tartan skirt without being specifically Highland.

Ghillie flats for Highland dancing, formal Highland events and anywhere the outfit is explicitly traditional. Brogues for everyday tartan wear, because they are more comfortable for long periods and read as ordinary shoes. If you are buying for a ceilidh or a dance class, you want ghillies.

Match the shoe to the hem. Flats and ankle boots with knee length and above. A low heel or knee boot with midi and long lengths, since a flat shoe under a long hem shortens the line. Keep the leather one solid colour taken from the darker tones in the sett.

Polish with a neutral or matching cream rather than a heavy wax, since brogueing traps wax in the punched holes and shows it as white residue. Stuff with paper after wear to hold the shape while they dry. Never place them near a radiator, which hardens and cracks the leather permanently.

Ghillie flats, which have the same crossed lacing as a men's ghillie brogue on a thin flexible sole that lets the foot point and roll. Ordinary flats will not grip or flex correctly. If you are buying for a dance class or a competition, confirm the required style with the teacher first.

Wear them indoors for an hour at a time over the two weeks before, with the socks you intend to wear on the day. Leather moulds to the foot with warmth and pressure rather than with time in a box. Never try to speed it up with water or heat, which distorts the shape.