Building a Shoe Wardrobe: Part 3 The Evening

Christian Louboutin Very Croise Sandal

Now that we have discussed the importance of a basic black pump and a ballet flat, it’s time to discuss another important facet of building a shoe wardrobe: the evening shoe. I really think it's a good idea to have at least one or two timeless evening shoe options. First of all, if you have an event come up, it's nice to already own a shoe that works with most everything, so you can just focus on buying a dress. In addition, a beautiful evening shoe can transform a plain little black dress into a much dressier outfit. So if you're in a jam with a last-minute event, you can toss on that LBD and gorgeous pair of satin sandals, and you're all set.

In my mind, nothing can ruin a beautiful evening look, like putting on a pair of inappropriate shoes with an evening gown. And when I say inappropriate, I’m thinking of pairing something like a delicate chiffon gown with a a pair of office-appropriate black pumps or a chunky platform sandal. Perfectly wearable in other scenarios, but they just do not work with a gown.

Another issue with evening sandals is comfort. I have ended so many evenings with aching, blistered feet. Granted any 5-inch shoe is going to be somewhat uncomfortable if you’re standing in them all night, but make sure any shoes you pick are somewhat tolerable. For example, if you mainly wear flats, don’t pick evening shoes with 4- to 5-inch heels. A heel of 2 or 3 inches is just fine.

It is impossible to pick a shoe that is going to work with any evening dress you might one day wear, but stick to something as neutral as possible like black, silver or gold. I adore evening shoes in vibrant reds or turquoise, but if you’re just building your shoe wardrobe and want to maximize your shoe investment, go for something neutral that you can get maximum wear out of. Later on you can add in some more unique choices. It is also nice to have a sandal and pump to choose from.

Building a Shoe Wardrobe: Part 2 The Ballet Flat

Anybody who knows me, knows how I adore a high heel. I can’t get enough of them. I used to wear them regardless of circumstances, even when my feet ached and I could barely walk. Now that I’ve gotten a little older and have a toddler, I gladly embrace stylish flats, and they have a very important part in any woman’s wardrobe. I encourage you to wear flats when appropriate—don’t end up in sneakers in desperation because you had to toss the heels. Rather feel free to wear stylish flats.
I would suggest investing in some well-made flats in neutral colors: black, browns, cream and even metallics, which I consider a neutral. From there you can branch out into vibrant colors with embellishments. But it’s always nice to know you have a basic black flat to pull out when you need it! If you’ve never tried Lanvin ballet flats, you simply must! Bridget Assil of Madison in Beverly Hills raved about Lanvin flats, and since I bought a pair from her, I have lived in them! They are the most comfortable flats I’ve ever worn! In my choices, I also included the Cole Haan Air Bria flat. I absolutely love them. They manage to combine the look of a ballet flat with a more athletic feel and the comfort of a sneaker! I’m ordering myself a pair!
Here are a few choices that I think would be a great addition to your wardrobe! Stay tuned for our next installment!

Building a Shoe Wardrobe: Part 1 The Black Pump

Christian Louboutin Platform Pump


If you read any style book, there is always a list of items that one needs to build a basic wardrobe. They usually include things like a little black dress, well-fitting jeans and a trench coat, to name a few. It’s also usually advised to invest your money in these basics, making sure they are well made, of good quality, fit well and will stand the test of time.

Shoes make up a very important component of what you wear. I’ll admit that it’s usually the first thing I check out when people watching. If you’re just now entering the world of designer shoes or you desperately need to edit your wardrobe, this is the article for you. Also if you find yourself buying pair after pair of cheaper shoes, it might be a good idea to cut back and save your money for a few pair of really good shoes.

We’ve compiled a list of what we consider to be the basics that every woman should own. I would suggest investing more on these pieces, but I’ve included some less expensive options as well, but they’re all well made shoes.

The first (and I’d say one of the most important) shoes on our list, is a black pump. When I say black pump, I think anything basic works, whether it be peep-toe, patent or a sling-back, but try to not pick something too trendy. You want to be able to wear these shoes 5 years from now. If you’ve haven’t had the privilege of owning a pair of Christian Louboutins, and you want to, I think a Louboutin black pump is a great purchase! My first foray into the designer world was a pair of black patent slingback loubies, and I adore them! Personally I prefer a higher heel, but buy something you will feel comfortable wearing in many settings from work to a night out. If you're unsteady on higher heels or the shoes are extremely painful, go for a lower heel in the 2-3-inch range. My favorite of the shoes listed is the Christian Louboutin Platform Pump. I think they are gorgeous!