8 Pairs Of Shoes Every Woman Needs
Everyone who knows me well knows that I’m a shoe lover and I’m always searching for the perfect pair of shoes that have the two C’s. They must be Cute and they must be Comfortable, and when I can score on both of these, I truly feel like I’ve hit the jackpot.
The right pair of shoes can make or break your whole day. Shoes can make you feel great when they pull your outfit together, or they can make you miserable forcing you to limp around town in pain. It’s not until we actually wear a new pair of shoes that we realize whether the shoes are a big hit or a big mistake. I’m sure we’re all guilty of buying a pair for a special event that are perfect for that special outfit, but by the end of the night you just want to chuck them in the garbage because your feet are killing you.
Over the years I've come to the conclusion that there are 8 “must have” styles that every gal needs in her closet. Once you find the right pair of each - both cute and comfortable - you’ll never need to shop for shoes again, but don’t let that stop you!
Black Pumps
A feminine and classic pair of black pumps are a must for everyone. This is the LBD of shoes. They are perfect to dress up jeans and a blazer and are chic enough to wear with almost any dress. Make sure to seek out a comfortable pair with a heel that is not too high to wear during the day, but high enough to wear out on the town at night. If you want to splurge on the ultimate classic black pump, you can’t go wrong with the Manolo Blahnik BB, the Jimmy Choo Romy and the Stuart Weitzman Nouveau. Kate Spade, J. Crew and Aldo make some great-looking shoes on the affordable side as well.
Ballet Flats
A great-looking pair of ballet flats can make the most casual pair of cropped jeans and oversized men’s button down shirt look incredibly chic. Flats are a practical shoe for traveling and daytime wear. J.Crew, Chanel and Chloe all make great pairs and you will find a range of styles, colors, and prices. Repetto, an actual ballet company, also makes a good looking flat.
Sneakers
Sneakers are not so much a “want” purchase as they are a “NEED” purchase. Everyone needs at least one pair of comfortable and classic sneakers. If you seek out a fashionable pair, they can take you beyond your morning workout as well. My favorite sneakers for a real workout are Asics. Then I have a more fashionable pair for those days I’m feeling “feh” or have a million things to get done. Nike, Adidas, Converse and Superga all make good looking shoes that won’t break the bank, while at the same time there are many brands of designer sneakers in upscale retail stores that are incredibly pricey.
Wedges
Wedges are the most comfortable heels you can buy. They are the perfect pair to keep you looking great and feeling tall, or tall-er. If you’re a fan of the classic style, you’re in for a treat with a pair of Stuart Weitzman’s but other brands that offer great options are Jimmy Choo, Prada and Dolce Vita.
Flat Sandals
Flat sandals are a summer favorite when it’s hot outside and your feet just want to be bare. There is a huge variety of styles and colors to choose from, and it’s always fun to pick out a trendy pair when the weather warms up in spring. Some go-to brands for comfortable and stylish sandals are Birkenstock (most of them slides with the buckled double strap), Manolo Blahnik, Sam Edelman and Bandolino.
Heeled Sandals
Heeled sandals can be worn day or night and (in California at least) they are not simply just for summer. The right heeled sandal can take you from casual to more formal occasions depending on the style. Stuart Weitzman has some great styles as do Loeffler Randall, Jimmy Choo, Prada and Manolo Blahnik.
Chelsea Boots
Chelsea Boots are a great option to a flat shoe especially if you want to wear socks. They’re classic and a little bit tomboyish but are “on point” when worn with a pair of jeans and a cashmere sweater. It’s actually my favorite accessory once the weather cools down. I would recommend checking out Isabel Marant, Alexander Wang, Saint Laurent and Sam Edelman.
No matter if it’s open or closed toe, the heeled bootie is the perfect shoe for winter, spring or fall and a night on the town. Paired with skinny jeans and a chunky sweater or a sweater dress and tights, this boot is a dressier option than the Chelsea boot. Check out options from Chloe, Jimmy Choo, Gianvito Rossi and Rag and Bone. I’m a huge fan of the open toed Mason Margiella bootie; they’re Cute and Comfortable (the 2 C’s) and I can walk for miles in them and still be a happy camper.
What do you fashionistas think of this list? Did I miss a pair that you think should have made my list? What are your favorite shoes and why? Let me know in the comments.