Like accessories, or the perfect jacket, shoes can really tie an entire look together, so the idea of having “too many shoes” almost feels like a silencing of fashion freedom.
However, if you don’t have the space or money to create a full shoe closet, you may have “too many shoes” in the mundane sense of the word. It’s unfortunate, but true. Luckily, you can have all, if not almost all, of your bases covered with these types of shoes below. Welcome to the mini capsule wardrobe of shoewear.
Flats
A standard ballet flat is an excellent choice for comfortable workwear that can span outfits for nearly every season. They go great with anything, from skirts to trousers to summery dresses, and have the ability to be dressed up or down depending on what you’re doing that day.
Sneakers
A good old-fashioned sneaker is always a must-have in your closet, as they’re often the finishing touch for any good casual outfit. If you’re a hiker or a generally outdoorsy type, you can also make your sneakers multi-purpose, blending fashion and function. Your best bet is to get a high-quality breathable shoe that you can stand or walk in for hours, without worrying about sore feet at the end of the day.
Boots
Boots are a very personal topic for many, as they tend to be the go-to when cold weather strikes. Chelsea boot varieties are usually your best bet for multiple looks, as they can do well with casual, work-friendly, or even nightwear. We’d recommend getting a little bit of a heel on them for the sake of your more fashion-forward days, but these versatile shoes can look good and hold up quite well for years to come.
Heels
Just like the little black dress, a no-nonsense heel that you can pull from your closet is crucial for any formal event. The ideal heel won’t crush your toes, is in a neutral shade that will go with just about any outfit, and won’t turn you into a wobbling mess after a few hours. A two or three-inch heel is the sweet spot for day-to-night wear.
Sandals
If you live somewhere with hot weather, you need a good pair of shoes to keep you cool! A sandal, like a Birkenstock, also has the pleasure of versatility, easily worn with dresses as well as jean shorts, and will last you a very long time. However, if you prefer the outdoorsy life, a velcro-based sandal that you can hike around in may be a better option.
Other Tips
- Pick shoes in colors that go with the rest of your outfits. This way, you can really make sure your shoes will match a variety of your outfits.
- Keep rain boots, snow boots, gym shoes, and other functional-forward type shoes out of this list. They are required to keep you safe and secure, and shouldn’t have to take up space in your capsule wardrobe.
- This is not a cut-and-dry method! If you have a preference for other shoes, like loafers, you can always add them to your list. Swap, add, or remove styles as needed.
