These days, I find myself buying fewer clothes and more shoes. Okay, that’s a lie. I’ve always bought lots of shoes. But now, I am seeing even more how important they are. Almost more important than clothes. Almost. A flawless pair of shoes can turn basics into an outfit, and with a well-edited shoe wardrobe, your style is unstoppable. Here, the 12 shoes every woman should own. (Not that I’m suggesting you stop at 12…)
1. Black Pumps
So important, I did a whole post on picking the perfect classic pair. Once you have that covered, though, go crazy and make your second pair drop-dead glamorous.
2. Ankle Strap Sandals
Possibly the hottest thing you can put on your feet. If you are petite, or have short legs, stick to a nude or neutral pair to avoid making your legs look shorter.
3. Black Ankle Boots
These are my winter go-to’s. Try them with anything that’s too prissy, proper or dull, and they add instant edge.
4. Cool Sneakers
I have spent my entire life shunning sneakers and all that they imply (i.e. movement) but their current trendiness, and the way stylish moms like Lena Antonacci pull them off, has made me reconsider. These are by style blogger The Man Repeller for Superga, and they are black satin. Which basically means that I must own them. When styled properly, the right trainers can be worn with all of your weekend essentials, from shorts and jeans to maxi dresses.
5. Ballet Flats
The quintessential casual flat, ballets are so feminine and stylish and timeless. My favorites are by French label Repetto (the Cendrillon is timeless) and Bloch.
6. Stacked Heel Sandals
A stacked heel sandal is a great compromise. Dressier than a flat sandal, but comfortable enough to wear all day.
7. Leopard Pumps
My love of leopard has been well documented, and no shoe list is complete without it, in my opinion. It’s the instant transformer. Pair your leopard pumps with any solid color outfit and you’re instantly chic; mix it up with other prints and you’re a trendsetter.
8. Metallic Pumps
Forget nude pumps (theoretically, of course – don’t toss them or anything). These are the true neutrals, and when I have to narrow shoes down for a trip (the tragedy!) I always take a metallic, because they are more versatile than black, and often, much more stylish.
9. Boldly Colored Pumps
I am so obsessed with my new-ish SJP red satin “Lady” pumps. They are so flawless they nearly bring tears to my eyes. (What? You don’t cry over beautiful shoes?) Anyway, the right pair of colored pumps takes your neutrals to the next level, and are often the single most impactful purchase you can make to instantly, easily upgrade your style.
10. Rain Boots
Living in Florida, where torrential downpours are a regular occurrence, I have learned the hard way to find cute shoes that can withstand the rain, hence my collection of shiny footwear. I love my Melissa pumps and my Kate Spade flats and my Burberry boots. A sleek pair of rain boots holds up in snow as well, and whether you opt for one of Hunter‘s stylishly glossy styles, or this preppy pair from Ralph Lauren, they are an essential classic you’ll wear for years!
11. Flat Tall Boots
Riding boots are comfortable enough to wear all day, with virtually everything, and cute enough to look like you haven’t given up. They are the perfect foil for a dress that is too dressy or too predictable.
12. Flat Sandals
In Florida, the quintessential flat sandal is by Jack Rogers, but if they’re not your thing, there are zillions of others to choose from, including fashion insider brands like Ancient Greek and K. Jacques. They’re a warm-weather essential!
I hope I’ve inspired you try a style you’ve never considered before. Which of these essentials is missing from your shoe wardrobe?
Nada Manley says
That sounds perfect! This list is just a jumping off point and you absolutely have to make it your own!
Bonnie Boyd says
Hi Nada! I love these fun posts with pictures of a group of items under discussion!
I noticed that, although these are great for a working woman, or one who attends dressy meetings,…. They are not really the 12 needed for me, as a retiree. Fully 1/3 of the 12 choices here won’t work for me for/on a normal daily routine throughout the month. Then also, there is location. Being in the hot states brings it’s own needs. I think a flat shoe with cut outs instead of one of the heels works good for in between casual or shopping or non-dressy to casual events; mine are Mary Jane style. And a pretty Mule/Slide with a low to medium heel can go dressy or nice, and even to a beach ….; and I would change the metallic shoe to a metallic sandal that can dress up or down. Does that sound right for me? Remember we live in a Travel trailer now as Nomads, lol…
Bonnie Boyd