Summertime calls for a wardrobe spruce up, and one of my favourite ways to add some new magic to my style without spending a bomb, is to invest in new statement sandals and shoes for the season. Footwear can make or break your outfit, and add a whole new dimension to it – after all, a class black dress worn with sneakers has a totally different feel from the same dress worn with strappy gold high heels, or leather ankle boots.
When it comes to high quality, stylish and affordable footwear, Charles & Keith is one of my go-to brands. And so, when I was looking to update my shoe collection this year, that was my first stop. The first pair that caught my eye were the Floral Embroidered Slip Ons. The sheer elegance of the design, combined with the nautical feel and on-trend embroidery motifs, make these shoes look significantly more expensive than they are. The best part about this pair is the versatility – they look ultra-chic with a white jeans and white t-shirt combination but could also be worn on holiday with a swimsuit and kaftan after you’ve frolicked in the pool and want a look that is effortless but put together.
As I was browsing through the Charles & Keith website, the Rope Detail Mules really tickled my fancy. Mules have made a major comeback in the last two years, and with good reason. This updated version of the classic style features rope and fringe detailing, along with a black and white printed block heel, which adds some extra pizzazz to your bottom half. Again, these shoes are extremely versatile and could be paired with a little back dress, or a white shirt and blue jeans ensemble. As if that wasn’t enough, they’re also super comfortable, so you can easily wear them from morning to night without any problems. What more does a girl need?
Now, if you’re on the hunt for a more formal summertime shoe, the Basket Weave Ankle Strap Mules are an ideal option. They’re everything I want in a pair of heels – texture and detail, a heel that is high but not too high, and an ankle strap for support and comfort. Throw these on with a silky slip-style dress, or use them to dress up jeans and t-shirt combination, and you’re good to go!
Another shoe brand that I have been crushing on lately is Moda In Pelle. When I feasted my eyes on the Loello Orange Leather sandals, I knew I had to have them. This pair is perfect for adding a summertime pop of colour to your outfits and can instantly spice up a relatively bland ensemble and become the showstopper. Plus, the adjustable ankle strap and sturdy block heel mean that they are comfortable enough for you to prance around town all day long! I would pair these with a flirty summer dress or wide leg palazzo-style pants, keeping the rest of my outfit simple and letting the shoes do the talking.
If you’re for flats instead of block heels, the Noello style of sandal by Moda in Pelle is an excellent option. I opted for the navy and red colour combination, but they are available in many different hues, including the vibrant pink and orange palette from above. They’re classic, stylish and practical – a rare combination when it comes to footwear. I would pair these with cut-off jeans and white shirt, but the truth is that you can wear them with almost anything in your wardrobe – which makes this pair a winner in my books.
Whatever your style when it comes to footwear, remember that quality is key, and it’s usually worth investing a little bit more to get sturdy, reliable shoes and sandals that will last you a while. Plus, scuffed soles, visible glue and bare threads is never, ever a good look. And remember the famous words of Marilyn Monroe: “Give a girl the right shoes, and she can conquer the world.” Amen!
