Must-Have Shoes

Shoes are an essential piece to any outfit. Having the right shoes can make the difference between a killer look and an outfit gone wrong. I learned early on that making wise shoe selections are important, as the shoe can either last you season after season or go out of style as quickly as it came in. As a person who wears a women’s shoe size of 4.5, my option of styles are limited and I'm often times restricted to pricier shoes. Shoe stores that sell the most inexpensive shoes (ranging from $20-30) only carry size 5 and up so I’m usually left to purchase shoes in tiny sizes from Nordstrom that can cost over $100 per pair. Therefore, it is crucial that I make wise shoe decisions for the amount of money I spend.

Although I love shoes of all styles, colors, patterns, designs, you name it, I have narrowed down 4 must have shoe styles that every girl should own. With these styles you will be covered for every occasion in your life. My tips on choosing classic shoes that will stand the test of time is great for everybody; the girl who is looking to build a solid foundation for her shoe closet, the girl on a budget, or the girl like me with small feet and limited options.

#1 - The Classic Pump

The most versatile shoe in my closet is the classic pump. A round toe or pointy toe is really up to your own preference. I find that the pump is a great style for every occasion. Most importantly pumps are professional enough for work and job interviews, yet stylish enough for the nightlife or going out on a date. When choosing a pump appropriate for both work and going out, I would invest in a closed toe pump. In addition, I recommend a 3 or 4-inch heel because a height like that can go from professional to sexy and back. The two colors I must have in my closet are a nude pump and a black pump. A nude pump elongates your legs and can be worn with more neutral and lighter colors, while the sexy black heel is perfect for darker colored clothing items.

#2 - Boots

The second must have shoe style in my closet is a boot. I love knee-high boots most because they’re casual yet very fashionable. Depending on the particular style of your boot, you can dress them up or down, you can wear them with your pants tucked in or out, and with shorts, leggings, or jeans. Boots are fabulous for the chilly fall season and the cold winter season because they will keep your feet warm. Choose a classic boot style, it will last you multiple fall and winter seasons. With boots, again, I would stick with black or neutral colors for more versatility.

#3 - The Ballerina Flat

The third style of shoe I recommend is the classic ballerina flat. Flats are casual and comfortable for when you don’t want to wear a heel, yet still provides your look with a mature and feminine quality. Flats come in a variety of styles with embellishments and patterns. Although those bows or rhinestone designs can be appealing, you can get more wear out of a classic basic design that has style longevity through multiple seasons. Choose a black or nude color to better complete your look.

#4 - Flat Sandals

The last style I recommend as a shoe closet staple is a flat sandal. Flat sandals are awesome for warm weather seasons like spring and summer. Like ballerina flats, some flat sandals have embellishments like flowers that can be cute at the moment, but go out of style quickly. A plain basic sandal stays fashionable and can last you years. Since sandals are worn during warmer seasons where we tend to wear more light colors, I would choose a nude colored sandal.

After building a basic shoe closet with these classic styles, it's easier to begin exploring and experimenting with edgier styles. Having a solid base first really helps.


The greatest element about fashion is that it is an outlet for self expression. Everybody has their own fashion sense and eye for what is beautiful. I gravitate more towards classic, chic, and sometimes edgy women's shoe selections. Whereas other people may gravitate towards a cute or athletic style. I appreciate all types of shoes. This post is just my personal advice based on my lifestyle, experience, and taste. 


I hope this information is helpful for some. Happy shoe shopping!