If there’s one thing that everyone –man or woman, adult or child, fat or skinny, fashionista or average joe– is willing to let hang out during the summer months, it’s their…FEET. Things are heating up now, but instead of talking weather, let’s discuss shoes: the brilliant invention that has kept us from involuntarily firewalking every time we cross asphalt or cemented sidewalks (I might only be speaking to an Arizonan audience on this one).
Summertime is when people, including myself, love to let their feet step out. The shoes I plan on wearing over the next few months are closet favorites that I’ve had for some time:
- Deena & Ozzy Minimal Blocked Heel Sandal (sold out)
- Steve Madden Vamp (available here)
- Converse Chuck Taylor High Top Sneakers (available here)
- DV by Dolce Vita Diandra Gladiator Sandal (available here)
- Steve Madden Cruzz Sandal (sold out)
- Nicole Club white sandals (thrifted)
As you can see, I gravitate toward dark shoes, but I’m currently on the hunt for a brown sandal and a light-colored shoe with a funky print. OK, now I’ll address the big white elephant in the photo. Is it just me or are white sandals hard to pull off without looking like a little girl? I’ve struggled for almost TWO years to style the made-in-Brazil beauties pictured above that I found at a thrift store for only $2.
Yes, they do (unfortunately) have velcro closures, but can we agree that they have chic potential? Think: walking the cobbled streets of France wearing a flowy maxi dress and floppy hat, carrying a baguette and book in an oversized tote bag, and sporting these sandals. Did you see it? There’s potential. This summer I am on a personal mission to incorporate these sandals into more outfits. How would you style them?
I’ve noticed that with age, my preference has gone to simplicity. I want basics. Pieces with timeless silhouettes that I can wear for years without worrying about if they pass the trend report. In my opinion, a sturdy pair of sneakers, sandals and flats are musts for any lady interested in fashion and style. At least one pair of each and preferably in neutral colors and you’re pretty much set for the season.
Check out 20 shoes available for under $100 that were made for summer strutting: