With summer event season in full swing, finding a pair of chic shoes that look elegant but won’t leave you regretting your life choices by lunchtime can feel like an impossible task. That’s why a recent outing from Carole Middleton caught my attention.

The Princess of Wales’s mother was spotted wearing a chic pair of Emmy London pumps at Royal Ascot last week, proving that comfortable occasionwear doesn’t have to compromise on style. Better still, the shoes come from a British label adored by both her daughter, Princess Catherine, and Zara Tindall, who have regularly stepped out in Emmy London’s timeless designs over the years.

And if you’re searching for a versatile heel that will work just as well for royal events, weddings and race days as it will for summer parties, these might just be the ultimate seasonal investment.

Crafted from soft cashmere suede, the elegant slingback design comes in a versatile pale grey shade that will pair effortlessly with everything from floral dresses to tailored occasionwear. The shoe features a sophisticated pointed-toe silhouette, which instantly elongates the leg, while the low block heel provides welcome comfort for long days on your feet.

One of the details I particularly love is the adjustable covered buckle fastening, which gives the shoe a polished finish while ensuring a secure fit throughout the day. For shoppers who prefer a darker option, the style is also available in navy, offering the same elegant silhouette in a classic shade that will never date.

It’s easy to see why the design appealed to Carole, 71. The understated shape feels incredibly refined, while the practical block heel makes it ideal for navigating grass, cobbles and racecourses without sinking into the ground - a challenge many stiletto wearers know all too well.

Available in sizes 2 to 9, including half sizes, the design caters for a wide range of shoppers and offers a far more personalised fit than many occasion shoes on the market.

As wedding invitations continue to land and summer events fill the calendar, investing in a timeless pair of neutral heels suddenly feels less like a luxury and more like a necessity. And if Carole Middleton’s latest Royal Ascot appearance proved anything, it’s that sometimes the hardest-working pieces in your wardrobe are also the most understated.