Some girls may be worried about finding the perfect man to start dating before the major holidays come around, but I’m more worried about finding my next favorite pair of shoes. Ladies, if you place as much importance on accessorizing and putting an outfit together from head to toe as I do, you know that choosing shoes for each outfit is an art. However, with most of us having limited space in our college closets, it isn’t always easy to have an extensive collection from which to choose. This shouldn’t stop anyone from having the perfect outfit, though, so here are a few suggestions on what shoes to keep in your closets (at home and in school) to never feel like your outfit is missing its cherry on top.
1. Black Stilettos: Keeping these pumps in your closet is a must! They are my go-to for any professional event (which is particularly important for juniors and seniors, as these events are more prevalent for upperclassmen). They also work well to dress up an outfit quickly before going from your internship to a night out with friends.
2. Metallic Flats: But not too metallic! A silver or gold pair of flats always adds some flair to casual day-to-day outfits and keeps them fun and original. Plus, metallic colors count as neutrals, so these shoes will go with everything!
3. Black or White Sneakers: These shoes are no longer reserved for pairing with workout leggings; we all know of the recent(ish) trend to wear sneakers with regular outfits. However, this tends to work better when you’re not using neon-colored running shoes with a blush-colored floral dress. For this reason, stick to black, white, or a similarly neutral color when it comes to sneakers you want to use on the regular. This will make you look trendy and cool, and will also allow for great comfort throughout your day.
4. Booties: Again, buy these in a neutral color. These are my go-to shoes when I’m looking for a bit of a heel, but not too much, and also for when I want to dress an outfit up a little while still keeping the look casual. They are multifunctional and are almost always appropriate, but only if you have the ability to make them actually mesh with your outfit, which is why having them in a neutral color works best. This doesn’t mean that you have to buy them in black or brown, though! Instead, try to look for a grey or beige pair that you like; these colors are still neutrals but are also less typical than black, meaning your shoes will get noticed and complimented more.
5. Espadrille Wedge: These work well to create a chic but casual look when going to class, work, or dinner. It also helps that it is easy to find a pair that will be surprisingly comfortable. Besides, these shoes are classics, so they always come back in style, which is a huge bonus!
6. Peep-Toe Heels: The perfect pair of shoes to make you feel like a true lady every time! Every girl needs these to add that feminine touch to an outfit. Color recommendation? A light neutral like blush or taupe.
7. Sandals: Living in Malibu, you never know when the weather will call for a more breezy look. Be prepared with having the perfect pair of sandals to go with any summery outfit. Since these are fun daytime shoes, there typically aren’t many limits on appropriate colors, so choose the pair that you like best!
8. Pointed-Toe Flats: These are a must for days when you want to dress up an outfit but not have to deal with the pain that often comes after wearing heels for all of twenty minutes. These flats will never fail you!
9. Oxfords: These make any casual outfit look chic and trendy. Wear these and people will automatically consider you fashion-forward.
10. Red Pumps: You will be surprised by how often you will wear these! They add the perfect amount of pop to any outfit and you will undoubtedly be complimented on them. Red is a power color! Wear red clothes, red lipstick, and of course, red shoes!
There you have it, collegiettes. Take these suggestions in stride and be ready for any occasion with not only the perfect outfit but the perfect shoe, too!