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Imagine having to choose from just FIVE pairs of shoes for school, for work, for parties, for the gym, for the beach, for dates, for EVERYTHING. You’d never have to buy another pair again. Impossible, right? Think again.
Welcome to the…
The Fashionista’s Survivalist (Minimalist) Guide to Shoes
Here’s what you’ll need:
1. Flats (Casual)
You’ll want at least one flat pair of shoes that will closely resemble the feeling of being barefoot without becoming a total hippie. Hey, there’s nothing wrong with going barefoot (or being a hippie)—in fact, I am barefoot probably 90% of the time! However, there are certain places and stores that require you to wear shoes to show that you are somewhat “civilized.” Of course, we all know they just want proof that you have enough money to buy something at their store!
You’ll want flats when you’ve had a long day at work or at school. They also come in handy when you’re pregnant (me!) and are feeling a bit wobbly. You’ll want flats on the beach, and you’ll want them to just feel comfortable overall!
Shoes in this category: Flip-flops, ballet flats, boat shoes, sandals.
2. Open-toed (casual to semi-formal)
Open-toed shoes can be flat or have heels. You will want something open-toed when the weather is too hot or for casual or semi-casual wear, when showing your toes is acceptable. During the summer, open-toed shoes are all I wear. The general rule of thumb is to hide your toes for formal or business attire. Depending on what you do for a living, that can be very infrequent. So go crazy with open-toed shoes!
Shoes in this category: Sandals, gladiators, platforms, flatforms, wedges.
3. Sneakers
Sure you can run with flats, but the safest shoes to wear for anything athletic are sneakers. There are different types of sneakers for different sports and activities, however (e.g., tennis shoes, running shoes, golf shoes, hiking shoes, etc.), but you can, in my opinion, own just one type of sneakers and still be able to do most sports!
Of course, flatforms and wedged sneakers do not count as athletic sneakers! I am definitely guilty of trying to pass my wedged sneakers off as sports wear at the gym!
Shoes in this category: Any type of athletic shoes
4. Boots
Depending on the climate, boots are actually optional. I used to live in a tropical country, and I never wore boots. Now that I live where snow can get to my knees, boots are necessary! You’ll need something that can you get wet in, especially when the weather is too cold to be bare legged.
Shoes in this category: Rain boots, hiking boots, snow boots.
5. Closed-toed (semi-formal to formal)
This is a must, especially for formal or business attire, and not to mention for the fall and winter. Like I said above, the rule of thumb is to cover your toes when in this type of setting. Who follows clothing rules anymore, though? Certainly not me, but it’d be helpful to know these things if i were trying to be hired by an old fashioned company, where attention to detail is of utmost importance!
You can certainly own closed-toed casual shoes, but remember, this is a “survival-list” for the bare minimum! The heels do not necessarily need to be sky high, but since we’ve already covered flats, you’ll need something that is closed-toed but not sneakers or boots! Plus: You are being extra modest by shielding yourself from people with a foot fetish! Just kidding.
Shoes in this category: Pumps, Mary Janes, brogues, oxfords, stilettos, etc.
If you at least do 2 out of the 4 activities below, you’ll want to own a good pair of solid pumps:
Check out this fabulous lifesaver below. Literally, one pair of pumps is all you will probably ever need with these new revolutionary shoes by Albertine Shoes.
Don’t believe it? Watch this cute video below:
There you have it. Just four types of shoes you’ll ever need in your entire lifetime. I did say types and not pairs, right? ;-)
QUESTION: What is your favorite type of shoe or favorite shoe? What can’t you live without?
Disclaimer: Although this may be sponsored, all opinions are 100% my own.
