APPLE PODCASTS | SPOTIFY | GOOGLE PODCASTS

I hope you’re ready to talk about footwear, my friend! Because today’s episode is jam-packed with some of my best tips and simplest strategies to get your shoe collection in check.

Thanks to a question that came in from our girl, Breda, we’re tackling common struggles like curating a versatile assortment of shoes when comfort comes first. Yes, there are options other than basic trainers. I’m also addressing points like how much to invest in your shoes, what to keep in mind when deciding which types of shoes you must have in your closet, AND I’m handing over a quick list of 9 classic shoe styles that will give you a great jumping off point to rounding out your shoe collection. 

After this episode, you’ll be able to breathe (and walk!) easy knowing exactly what you need to step out in style.

❶ Invest What You Can

When it comes to high-quality purchases, shoes and handbags are typically your two best investments. 

I’m not suggesting you drop $795 on a pair of Manolo’s if that’s not in your budget. It’s not in mine either, my dear. But as with everything, less is more. Invest what you can in fewer, but better shoes for your collection.  

This is especially true if you have an Elegant style. Expensive (looking) shoes will elevate your entire outfit. 

❷ Beauty Is NOT Pain

For our first wedding anniversary, my husband Neil and I headed to Mexico. One night, we decided to set out for the clubs in Cancún. Can you already tell this story happened over a decade ago?

In typical Heather fashion, I slipped on a cute dress and… wait for it… matching blue, sky-high stilettos that must have been at least 4-5″. 

My outfit looked great. But by the end of the evening, I looked ridiculous.

After just a couple hours of club hopping and attempting to navigate the cobblestone streets of Cancún, passersby would’ve assumed I had a few too many tequila shots. I literally could not walk in those beautiful nightmares. And it only took me that ONE experience to learn that beauty is NOT pain … at least when it comes to shoes. 

They are, after all, made for walking. So do yourself a favor and make a pact to only wear what makes you look and feel good. 

❸ Build Your Shoe Collection Strategically

A few things to keep in mind as you map out your ultimate shoe collection…

1. Consult your calendar – As a WFH wife and mom to a very active 5-year-old boy, I don’t buy many stilettos these days. Think about the events in your typical week and be realistic about what you need to take your feet to and fro.
2. What do you reach (or wish) for? – When you’re getting dressed, make a mental note whenever you find yourself wishing you had an alternate pair of shoes on hand. You can prioritize your shopping list by which kind you want to reach for most often.
3. Stick to your style – Shoes make a statement, so please don’t overlook them! It’s important that your collection reflects and aligns with your signature style. Take the following “classics” and put your own unique spin on them. (Unless you have a Classic style, in which case, you’re welcome for the shopping list!

❹ Consider the Classics

You know I’m All. About. Personalization. So I offer you the following Basic (with a B) shoe collection list on one condition: Please, friend, make it your own.

You need to infuse your personal style, your location, and your life into your shopping decisions or you’ll wind up with a closet full of clothes and nothing to wear. Shoes included. That said, I hope this quick list gives you a good jumping off point, because it does run the gamut on a good variety of everyday needs and occasions:

1. Black (or nude) pump
2. Tall (black or brown) boots
3. Ankle boots
4. All-weather boots
5. Evening shoe (black or navy)
6. Dressy sandal (metallic or nude)
7. Neutral, everyday flat
8. Basic trainers
9. Everyday sandal

This list of 9 will have you covered for practically any and every occasion you can imagine.  But again, customize it!  Make it your own!  And do with it what you will.

❺ Make a Statement

Brace yourself.  I’m going to contradict myself for a moment. While I strive to help you buy less, I’ll always advocate for adding a statement shoe (or 2, or 3, or 10) into your collection –if it suits you.

Colorful, patterned, and sculptural shoes are a great way to punch up an outfit and create a more memorable look! Shoes can easily be used to express your style, throw in a pop of color, and dress a look up or down.  It’s extremely helpful to have variety in this department.  Not that you need my permission to do anything, but it’s fully granted if you want to pick up on some “just for fun” pairs.

As always, make sure your basics and essentials are all taken care of, stick to your budget, and don’t go hog wild! Be intentional, even with your statement shoes. Invest in your best colors, styles that will seamlessly mix and match with what’s in your wardrobe, and that will work for what’s on your calendar. It doesn’t make sense to buy even the most beautiful shoes if no one will ever see you wear them.

I hope these tips have inspired you to hit the streets with footwear that makes you look (and feel) FABULOUS!

Breda, thanks again for sending in this question and making sure we covered this important facet of your wardrobe here on the podcast. I can’t wait to hear or see what questions you’ll send in next!  For now, my friend, happy shoe shopping!