When investing in basic shoes, try to go for quality if your budget allows it. Shoes that you frequently use needs maintenance and cheaper shoes often needs even more visits to the shoemaker. Which basic shoes you need obviously depends a lot on your lifestyle and style in general, still I have put together some suggestions that I belive are essential for most working women.
One of my personal favourites is the riding boot. These boots are great over jeans and tights, but can also be used with a wool dress or skirt. Another boot you should invest in is a very nice pair of heeled ones as they can be used both in the office and for a dinner out. Try to go for a comfortable pair and eventhough higher ones often look nicer, do not EVER make a trade off in comfort. Remember that boots are made for walking, not sitting in a bar. The LK Bennet boot on the picture looks slim and feminine eventhough the heel is mid-height.
Another classic shoe is the basic court. Again, go for a height and model that feels comfortable and reflects your style in general. The Mary Jane model is nice since pumps tend to stretch after a while and the strap will keep the shoe from fitting loosely. Ballerinas, or flats, are a nice complement in your wardrobe since they can be used with almost any piece of clothes. I personally prefer pointed models, as the Jil Sander flats pictured, since they are more flattering for the legs.
Last but not least you need something for special occassions, such as cocktail parties and weddings. This is probably the most tricky part since comfortable ones are hard to find. If possible, go for a covered toe since they can be used both barefooted and with a pantyhose. I suggest you colourwise go for a silver or gold sandal as they are neutral and goes with all outfits. Eventhough you choose a gold sandal, do not be afraid of wearing silver jewelry, or the other way around.
One of my personal favourites is the riding boot. These boots are great over jeans and tights, but can also be used with a wool dress or skirt. Another boot you should invest in is a very nice pair of heeled ones as they can be used both in the office and for a dinner out. Try to go for a comfortable pair and eventhough higher ones often look nicer, do not EVER make a trade off in comfort. Remember that boots are made for walking, not sitting in a bar. The LK Bennet boot on the picture looks slim and feminine eventhough the heel is mid-height.
Another classic shoe is the basic court. Again, go for a height and model that feels comfortable and reflects your style in general. The Mary Jane model is nice since pumps tend to stretch after a while and the strap will keep the shoe from fitting loosely. Ballerinas, or flats, are a nice complement in your wardrobe since they can be used with almost any piece of clothes. I personally prefer pointed models, as the Jil Sander flats pictured, since they are more flattering for the legs.
Last but not least you need something for special occassions, such as cocktail parties and weddings. This is probably the most tricky part since comfortable ones are hard to find. If possible, go for a covered toe since they can be used both barefooted and with a pantyhose. I suggest you colourwise go for a silver or gold sandal as they are neutral and goes with all outfits. Eventhough you choose a gold sandal, do not be afraid of wearing silver jewelry, or the other way around.
Clockwise from left: Church's leather riding boots, Jimmy Choo knee-high boots, LK Bennett Celtic boot in black, Christian Louboutin new decoltissimo 70 distressed pumps, LK Bennett Selina, Christian Louboutin Corto 85 pumps, Jimmy Choo patent flats, Jil Sander pointed spazzalato leather flats, Jimmy Choo brandy mirrored leather slingbacks and LK Bennett Feria.
