Style and substance

2018 will go down in fashion history as the year that minimalist accessories outshone their blingy counterparts. When it comes to shoes in particular, pared-back styles with a vintage nostalgia are the most coveted right now – as the runways and our Instagram feeds can strongly attest to. With the trend showing no signs of slowing down for 2019, it’s important you get to know By Far, the breakout star of this ’90s redux.

The ultra-refined Bulgarian accessory brand has already gained a cult following of Hollywood heavyweights and agenda-setting fashion influencers in the two-and-a-bit years since its launch. It’s ‘barely there’ square-toed sandals, chic booties and mini bags have been spotted on everyone from Elsa Hosk, Kendall Jenner and Gigi and Bella Hadid, to Karlie Kloss and Michelle Obama. Beloved for their stylish simplicity and refined silhouettes, they have tapped into the zeitgeist for understated sophistication and a more grown-up sensuality.

Founded by twin sisters Valentina Bezuhanova and Sabina Gyosheva and their best friend Denitsa Bumbarova, the trio impressively espouse style with substance; all of their shoes are handmade in the same family-run factory from a mix of premium and sustainable Italian leather and suede, while there is a sense that each style is crafted with love and an innate desire to revive that cool-girl ’90s nonchalance. There is a charming backstory to the brand name, too – By Far is derived from the first letters of each of their son’s names: Filip (Valentina’s son), Alek (Sabina’s son) and Roman (Denitsa’s son).

Having already stood the test of time, ‘naked’ sandals are the type of shoes that you’ll return to year after year for weddings, special occasions, or to simply elevate your officewear. They are the perfect finishing touch to silk slip dresses, ’90s-style ‘mom’ jeans and retro flares. This season, the brand’s cult block-heeled ‘Tanya’ mules come in a chic tan suede, as well as the highly sought-after patent neutrals, and an on-trend snake print. For kitten-heel devotees, the ‘Thalia’ shoe will tick all your boxes; it comes in classic black and cream, as well as a playful hot pink. Carrie Bradshaw fans will love the strappy ‘Brigette’ sandal, which comes in dusty blue, blush pink, black and snakeskin. And directional dressers will appreciate the architectural, triangular heel of the ‘Sonia’ mule in midnight blue or snake print. By Far is definitely one to watch – and wear – in 2019.