I've been on a mission--YES, I have a lot of these...-over the past few months to really analyze my shoe wardrobe. I know, not the most important thing in the world to consider or ponder over but I've been specifically interested curating a closet that is cohesive, minimal, and well loved. So, shoes naturally are a piece to consider. Since January, I analyzed the shoes I did have and then made a list of the shoes I felt I needed for the Spring/Summer months--AND as you know that's what this post is focused on. I've collected a few items and feel pretty accomplished with what I've got! These are just a few styles of shoes I feel really cover most of my needs for spring/summer and also fit the vibe or look I strive towards. I would describe my aesthetic as minimal, classic, girly with a slight touch of edge here and there. Your collection may be different and that's absolutely okay! I'm happy to say that I've been getting pretty much equal wear time out of all of these pairs. So, again these are just some basics, some styles I wanted to have to build my wardrobe from here. I'm looking forward to adding in some pops of color--maybe a nice pair of red pointed flats etc--but that probably wont happen until next Spring/Summer. My current Spring/Summer Wardrobe consists of the following styles:
- Sandals
- These are an absolute staple. Everyone has a neutral color that they feel suits them best, for me that's brown. About 2 years ago, these were the only spring/summer shoes I owned. The pair pictured has literally been worn everyday for the past two summers. No, they aren't a crazy statement piece but absolutely an essential. Also, I absolutely hate flip flops--totally a personal preference--so these are my casual flip flop equivalent.
- Slip ons- NOTICE I have three different versions of this style. I live it these. Which has shocked me completely. If you asked me even a year ago I would have thought they were too casual or too sporty. As soon as I purchased my first pair I was proved wrong. There is nothing better than not having to worry about buckles or laces.
- Loafers
- These have been through hell and back. I purchased them a summer ago from Target because I desperately wanted the Gucci ones--they are STILL something I lust over-- but I wasn't sure if I'd actually pull them off or wear the style often enough. These have proven to me that if one day--hopefully sometime this summer/fall--I treat myself to the real deal I will wear them religiously. I'm even at the point where the tip of each shoe is pealing I continue to color them in with Sharpie to make them wearable!
- Sandals
- Slip on sandals have changed my whole outlook on sandals. Again, as I mentioned above I thought my hatred of flip flops would forever remove me from the world of easy warm weather shoes! I purchased these the last few months and have fallen in love. The color is phenomenal, a reddish brown that looks beautiful with feminine white tops and light washed jeans <3.
- Sneakers
- Steve Madden how you have stollen my heart. I'm absolutely thrilled to have these. They are comfortable, classy, casual, and stylish. I first saw my sister in these and new that I needed them almost instantly when I started to steal them and wear them when she wasn't looking :)-- and just so you know I never steal her shoes. This was a first experience for me but I'm happy she inspired me.
- White Sneakers
- It has taken me a full year to find the perfect pair of white sneakers. Prior to this pair of Keds I owned a pair of Old Skool Vans. Which, I did really love BUT I ran into a few problems. I wasn't able to clean them as well as I wanted too--and the sales guy in the store actually sold me a cleaner that after using, and staining my shoes a pee yellow color, I found out online that it isn't meant for white shoes--and they just weren't as breathable as I wanted them to be. I purchased these Keds online, they are absolutely perfect and everything I could hope for: easily washable--they are leather, so I just wipe them down, lightweight, and have cute/minimal gold accents--I am OBSESSED with gold.
- Espadrilles
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- Okay, so these are my out there shoes of the summer....I know what your thinking they aren't very bold.. or ..super different, but for me this style is out of my comfort zone. I've never thought I could pull this style of shoe off, so this summer I'm putting them to the test! Of course, to make the transition a bit easier on myself I picked a color I'm very comfortable with, black. Here is the simple pair I that I purchased at TJ Maxx . I've been testing them out to see how much I wear them to decide whether or not I splurge on a more expensive pair in the future. It's still to be determined, I'll keep you posted
- Heeled Sandals
- These, these shoes give me life. They are a kind of heeled sandal option which is perfect when you want to make an everyday outfit look a bit more special. I love to wear these with jeans-- sometimes a dark skinny when I want to look more clean cut and sometimes a ripped light wash skinny to keep things more casual. Also, who doesn't love feeling taller?! Any excuse I have to wear a shoe that gives me a couple of extra inches I'm fully in support of.
*I'm not majorly going to go into styles/prices for my exact pairs because everyone has their own budget and brands they like! This is just supposed to get you thinking about shoes styles you have/want and get the juices flowing.
There is one style I'm still on the hunt for, a light weight strappy sandal that is a bit more light and delicate (compared to the sandals I currently have). I'll update you whenever I get my hands on the perfect pair.
Here are some tips I can offer:
- Find practical options that you love <3 that also work for your lifestyle.
- When trying a new style find cheaper alternatives until you really know you are going to get good wear out of them.
- Invest in timeless pieces you will reach for over and over again.
- Start by getting some basics and then add in some statement options.
