Marie Claire Fashion Director Nina Garcia always reminded readers of her best-selling books that if you were to splurge on any item, make it shoes. That pretty much explains why Jimmy Choo and Christian Louboutin make so much money. I, too, am guilty of fantasizing about those drool-worthy heels. While labels like Giuseppe Zanotti, Brian Atwood and Sergio Rossi have their own groups of wealthy followers, the rest of us struggle to find more affordable alternatives while singing to the words of Travie McCoy and Bruno Mars' "Billionaire".
Of all the items in your closet, footwear has got to be the one that is subject to the most wear and tear being worn on your feet. Many may argue that that would be the very reason why they don't spend a whole lot of money on shoes.
But I am an advocate for "every dollar spent counts towards quality", but that is not to say that every expensive item is permanently damage-free. I am also certainly not saying that I only buy expensive shoes. Rather, cheaper shoes have a higher possibility that they are made out of cheap and thus less durable materials while brands renowned for their footwear and charge more for them may use real leather instead of synthetic leather (which is effectively plastic), for instance. The key to shoe-shopping is hence, not to look solely at the price tag, but to balance cost and how well-made the shoes are. Always triple-check your shoes for defects, paying particular attention to seams, the soles as well as insoles, heels (if applicable) and embellishments that may fall off. Poorly made shoes, no matter how costly, look cheap.
Certain shoes we can afford to look for bargains, such as summer sandals, since the purpose of less expensive footwear is to serve as matching accessories to our various outfits. So, go get them in different colours, styles and designs - have fun! There are, however, several pairs of shoes which are absolutely versatile and must exist in your wardrobe - and yes, definitely worth the investment.
Black Heels
These goes with virtually everything and anything. They glam up an outfit instantly, even if you're just wearing a t-shirt over a pair of jeans, see Olivia Palermo. Plus, you can choose from the many styles available: pumps, peep-toes, mary-janes, pointy or round-toed, patent, leather, suede - the options are endless!
Ballet Flats
A casual pair of shoes that make any outfit look sweet - I particularly love those that feature a dainty bow. These are easy to match and doesn't hurt even when you've spent an entire day on your feet shopping. Get them in both basic and striking colours! Pick pointy ones for an elongating effect but round-toed ones are more versatile and girlie. Note that pairs with overly flat insoles can lead to discomfort after long hours of walking because of the poor support they give your back. Invest in a quality pair of ballet flats with cushioned insoles, you'll be amazed at the difference they make.
Nude Heels
I've learnt that besides the black heels, nude heels are the next most versatile pair of shoes any girl should own. They go with practically everything but they don't look as heavy as the black ones, plus they make your legs look longer. Sounds like the perfect pair of shoes to me and so definitely worth pumping slightly more money into a good pair that are made to last. Take them from formal to casual - no problem.
Statement Shoes
Finally, everyone needs a pair of head-turning, statement shoes. This would work particularly well with an outfit that's made up of basic colours such as black, white, grey and other neutral tones. Of course, use your creativity to mix and match, and to create an interesting look. Get a pair of brightly coloured stiletto pumps. Walk on the wild side with animal print - leopard, snake (cobra's been made hot by Burberry for this spring), zebra. Look out for fun elements such as embellishments, zippers, etc. The City's Olivia Palermo sets perfect examples for us all.
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