In view of how women these days like clothes that are “edgy” or, in favour of Instagram, over-the-top, pretty is as appealing as granny underpants. In fact, pretty has less a place in fashion now that ephemeral is arguably lost in a sea of sporty get-ups that no longer only dominate in the domain of the athlete. This month’s “Pretty Chic” Vogue may asks to differ, but, on the ground, it really is quite different.

The floral print on Bottega Veneta’s signature intrecciato finish of the above shoe, the ‘Trippie’ pump, is, therefore, refreshing because it appears as you thought pretty has gone back to the prairie. Dainty floral print is, however, having a moment, thanks to Vetements, but this is prettiness that can be connected to the kooky stance of Courtney Love rather than the haughty bearing of, say, Elizabeth Bennet.

There’s something extra appealing about Bottega Veneta’s child-like flowers—they appear on the unique intrecciato weave which is usually in plain, solid colours, as seen in their ubiquitous bags. In fact, woven leather and florals usually associated with folk art are a pairing that is consistent with the trend towards craft, or craft-like finish.

However, what may not widen the Trippie pump’s appeal is its utterly vanilla shape that the brand describes as “classic”, but women may find a little too yesteryear. The patent calfskin shoes with modest 8-cm (3.1”) heels, for some, may recall those worn by their grandmothers to tea dances of the ’50s. However, a throwback in our present time of looks indeterminate may not be such a bad thing.

Bottega Veneta ‘Trippie’ pumps, SGD1,010, are available at Bottega Veneta stores at ION Orchard and The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands. Photos: Bottega Veneta