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I’ve tried to google for a comprehensive list of shoes that every woman should own more times than I’d like to admit. There’s something oddly calming and comforting to me about a good list. Clear action (i.e. purchase) items that don’t seem quite as daunting as scrolling through pages and pages of online shopping, only to possibly end up spending hard-earned money on something that I won’t end up wearing. Unfortunately, I have yet to be satisfied with any of the lists of shoe essentials I’ve found, so, after a significant amount of internal reflection and thought about what a good wardrobe needs, I’ve created my own. Take a look, read through my styling tips, and let me know what you think in the comments!
Classic Black Pumps
I know, I knowww: groundbreaking start to your list of essential shoes, Becky. But just hear me out. Whether they’re a simple piece meant to tone down a statement outfit, giving an otherwise masculine outfit some feminine daintiness, or just being your go-to shoes for date night, the classic black pump is a must for everyone. If you’re looking to get the most use out of them, I’d recommend finding the sweet spot where the heels aren’t too high for the office, but are still high enough you could wear them for a girl’s night out. And comfort. Never forget about comfort! This pair of shoes is going to be your go-to for everything, so you want them to fit like a glove.
If you’re on a budget, I’d recommend shopping at places like Aldo, DSW, 6pm, and Nine West. I used to own a pair from BCBG and they were both comfortable and lasted me a long time before I had to get rid of them. Now I have a pair from Kate Spade, but I’m hoping to save up for a pair from Manolo Blahnik one day.
If you have a larger budget and are looking for high quality, cult classics include the Manolo Blahnik BB, the Jimmy Choo Romy, the Stuart Weitzman Nouveau, and the Christian Louboutin Pigalles. As iconic as they are, I would not recommend the Louboutins if you’re looking to just have the one pair of classic black pumps, since they are insanely uncomfortable and that does not a go-to shoe make. Damn, they’re sexy though, right?
Ballet Flats
The right pair of ballet flats can put the ultimate Parisian touch on a casual outfit. Find the right pair for you, and you can bounce around all day feeling like Audrey Hepburn in front of the Eiffel Tower… too much? You get the idea. The obvious pairing is to wear them with cropped skinny pants and a Breton stripe shirt, but let’s face it: these shoes go with pretty much anything.
While the ultimate pair of ballet flats would, in my opinion, be Chanel (a girl can dream, right?), Repetto is probably the most famous for the shoe, since they’re an actual ballet company. I prefer the model with the pointed toe, but it’s obviously up to you to decide what you like more on your own foot. Anniel is another go-to brand for ballerina style, and J. Crew has a great range of colors and patterns in a more affordable price range.
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