The Top 4 Shoe Essentials Every Girl Should Own

Whether or not you’re a shoe addict, you have to acknowledge their potential. The right pair of shoes can make an outfit and take it to a whole new level, whereas the wrong pair of shoes can make you look like got dressed in the dark. If you’re not shoe obsessed and willing to buy every pair of shoes you like, the question then becomes: what shoes do I need? We can help you with that.

The Pump

The pump is universally sexy–and professional if you pick your heel height correctly. It can be worn at night to a party, or to work. If you have the right pair, the transition from day to night is seamless. I know we all love Steve Madden, but he does not make good pumps. Those things are rocking a 6 inch stiletto heel most of the time, and under no circumstances should they be worn during the day. Heels are something to splurge on, so save up your money and wait for a sale at Nordstrom’s and go check out some Joan & David or Stuart Weitzman heels; their colors are beautiful and the quality will last you years. 

The Nude Flat

Flats are generally something that looks better off than they do on. Unless you have tiny feet, flats can seem pretty unappealing. But the nude flat is a chic basic that can go with almost any outfit, and add a nice polished finish. Look for a shoe that’s patent and has more of a creamy rather than brown nude – this color will go well with more outfits. Price doesn’t matter here, because no matter how well you treat your flats, they’re going to get beaten up. That being said, don’t trade in comfort for a low price tag.

The Tall Brown Boot

Whether it’s a riding boot, or a more slouchy style, a tall brown boot is a – if not the – shoe wardrobe essential. Tall brown boots can be worn with pretty much anything, except for dresses, because the height of the boots will most likely clash with the length of the dress. But any outfit that involves jeans can be topped off with a pair of boots. Again, not to advocate spending all of your money on shoes, but a quality pair of boots will last you years. I bought my pair of slouchy brown boots in the 10th grade, and I haven’t had to replace them yet–they look like they’re brand new. So pick a style that suits you, be it the preppy riding boot or more of a slouchy boho style, and shop around for a good pair.  It’s more than a worthwhile investment.

The Short Boot

This is the shoe that people often have several versions of; the combat boot, the short bootie, the high heeled bootie, etc. Depending on your style, the short boot can be anything you want it to be. If you’re into the moto look, go for a black studded lace up. If you’re into country music, buy some short cowboy boots. Personally, I find that the neutral bootie–be it brown, black, grey, etc, is the easiest to pair with an outfit and always ends up looking cute. If you really want to amp up your style, go for the high-heeled bootie; especially for the fall and winter seasons, rockin’ a high heeled bootie will get you major fashion credit.

Photo by Alex O’brien