We are half-way through the summer and summer should be about sunshine, confidence, and feeling good in your own skin; especially for our girls and teens. But for those that have bigger feet and need large size shoes, it can sometimes feel like the season of sandals, flip flops and light dresses is only made for others.
As a mum of a daughter who needs large-size shoes, I’ve felt this first-hand. Shoe shopping isn’t joyful; it’s limited. We go from store to store and get the same answer: We don't stock your size. So most of the time, we have to settle for the single option, if we're lucky, or men shoes. And she’s only a teen.
This post is about supporting girls that need large size shoes, and supporting you, as a parent or guardian; especially in summer.
Let’s dive into a few ways we can help our girl or teen feel good in what they wear; especially when it comes to shoes.
1. Acknowledge the challenge
Start by naming it, without shame.
Girls that need large size shoes often internalise the idea that something is “wrong” just because their size isn’t widely available.
Let your daughter know this isn’t just her. Lots of girls that need large size shoes wear UK size 6+ from as young as 9 or 10. It’s normal, it’s natural, and it’s nothing to feel awkward about. We are all different. The struggle isn’t her body; it’s the market that hasn’t caught up.
2. Focus on comfort first
The summer months often mean sandals, flip-flops, and light shoes, but these can be a nightmare if your child is wearing something that doesn't fit properly.
Shoes that are too tight or too flat can lead to discomfort, blisters, or even long-term posture problems. That’s why comfortable shoes for growing feet are essential. If you’re shopping around, look for brands that prioritise:
· Foot shape, not just size
· Adjustable straps or supportive backs
· Breathable materials to keep feet cool
· Arch support for developing bones
Even better, get your daughter involved in understanding her own needs; talk about foot width, arch height, and how shoes should feel, not just look. (I do this with clothes as well.)
3. Measure : Don’t guess
Most of us stop measuring feet after early childhood, but growth doesn’t stop there. In fact, our feet change all the time, which means that even after 18, we should really measure our feet annually. And a size 9 in one brand may feel totally different in another.
That’s why we’ve created a foot measuring guide to help girls and teens measure their feet accurately at home. It covers length, width, and other important details like ball girth and toe shape — especially helpful for girls that need large size shoes who need more than just a number.
(You can download the guide here; it’s free and easy to follow.)
4. Support style
It’s okay to want pretty shoes. In fact, it’s normal. Many teenage girls (including mine) want shoes that reflect their personality and their social group, bright, sporty, subtle, bold.
But when you’re stuck in the adult or men’s sections due to size, the styles can feel a long way off… (And we’re changing that.)
For now, that might mean searching a little harder and sticking to white or black shoes. You can empower her by asking what she likes and how she would design her own shoes. What colours make her feel good? What outfit is her “happy place”?
Your encouragement goes a long way.
5. Share real stories
It’s one thing to say “you’re not alone.” It’s another to see it.
Talk openly about the challenges of finding shoes for girls that need large size shoes; whether it's your daughter, your niece, or your younger self. I talk about it all the time with other parents, and we all say the same thing: why is it so hard?
I had myself the same problem. UK Size 6 or 7 wasn’t available in the children’s section when I was growing up.
We’re building a community where girls that need large size shoes feel seen, supported, and celebrated; and you’re already part of that just by reading this.
6. Start with What feels Good
If nothing fits quite right this summer, don’t let that define her whole look. Focus on what does make her feel great:
· A favourite outfit
· Painted toenails
· Ankle bracelets or fun socks
· A confident walk
Help her reclaim joy in the season — even if she’s wearing shoes she doesn’t like. Remind her she isn’t the problem. Her confidence is bigger than any shoe.
7. Help shape what’s coming next
We know the struggle — because we’ve lived it. That’s why Lofty Little Boutique was born: to design shoes that actually fit the girls and teens that brands have forgotten.
We’re not selling shoes just yet, but we are listening. If your daughter wears UK size 6+, we want to hear from you.
👉 Join our Measure Your Feet Campaign
👉 Send your measurements and sign up for our Feet Squad
👉 Help us build the shoes your daughter deserves
Final thoughts
Summer should feel easy, not frustrating. And while finding the right shoes might still take some effort, there’s strength in knowing your daughter isn’t alone — and better things are on the way.
With the right support, education, and a bit of style confidence, girls that need large size shoes can step into summer feeling seen, comfortable, and unstoppable.
Let’s help them do exactly that. 🌼
With love,
Vanessa
Founder, Lofty Little Boutique
Mum to a girl with UK size 9,5 feet EU 43-44 — who deserves shoes her size.