Wardrobe Essentials: The Shoe Edit

Okay, so I'm kicking this series off with shoes because we've got to have them and well, they are my favorite! I'm addicted to shoes and as pretty as the little rainbow of Manolo's is above it's not where we need to start. Once you have your essentials, you can add a pair at a time! 

I can't stress quality and fit enough. So whatever you choose, buy the best you can absolutely afford and take care of them. I have some YSL Tributes and a few Jimmy Choos I have been wearing for well over 7 years now. Now let's move on to what you need. While these are just my opinions, I feel every woman needs these items in her arsenal of wardrobe essentials. It's necessary so you no longer have to fret over what to wear. While I love adding new pieces to my wardrobe, I can say without a doubt that I always have something to wear and I credit that to putting my beliefs about wardrobe essentials in to practice. So, in no particular order, here it is: black pumps, nude pumps, leopard pump, nude sandals, back sandals, neutral slide, neutral espadrille, neutral loafer and white sneaker. So before you buy that super "fun shoe", make sure you have your bases covered with these first! And if you don't have any, start with a pump vs. the sandal; so much more polished and highly versatile. I have listed my picks in representing every price point to help you out. If you have any questions, just ask! You will also find this under the the shop section of the blog!

How to style them? These shoes are the backbone of your wardrobe. The nude pump and sandal go with absolutely everything. So when in doubt, go with that option. Black, while classic is not so subtle and I prefer if with all black or a contrast to all white. Think of the leopard as a neutral. This is when you want more impact; like dressing up jeans and a sweater or adding interest to a dress. I love wearing mine with cashmere sweaters, jeans and a colorful bag; it makes an otherwise plain look a little more fun. Espadrilles are perfect for summer. They lend a little more polish without going for an all out heel. White sneakers and slides...well, because sometimes you just want to be super casual. I gravitate towards these on the weekend. Loafers have become my new go to. They add polish to any look but are still like wearing your house slippers. 

Side note: I gravitate towards nude a lot. I'm short and I believe it helps to lengthen the leg. So you can always weight this heavier in one direction as long as you at least have a nice black/nude pump and sandal. 

Now go edit your shoes and make sure you have your bases covered. Once you do, you can add a pretty pair or two like above!