The Shoes Make the Outfit
Photos by Marquel Patton of Marque Makes. Shot in Old Town Alexandria, VA.
Shoes are an often underrated flash of personality in every outfit, but they can be easily overlooked. They get scuffed, sweaty, and downright dirty in most cases, which makes it seem as though wearing shoes is ultimately more practical than inspirational. In my work with women, I find some ladies prefer shoes with a wow-factor without much consideration for comfort, and others believe comfort is everything— style secondary. I find when we combine a wow-factor that suits our signature style with comfort, we better serve our wardrobe and our feet.
So, do the shoes really make the outfit? The mother of a dear friend of mine, who I adored, was famous for saying this. I remember seeing her in a t-shirt, a-line pencil skirt, and patent flats at an event. I complimented her shoes (so cute!) and she leaned over and whispered with a twinkle in her eye that they were from TJ Maxx, signaling that great style doesn’t have to break the bank. Her intentionally simple t-shirt and skirt created visual space to make room for her sassy shoes. The shiny flats added sophistication and femininity. The shoes really do make [or break] the outfit!
When you have a simple variety of different shoes for the different contexts you visit each week, it extends the possibilities to create looks for different contexts with just one simple swap. It also helps to have a Spring/ Summer selection and a Fall / Winter selection if you live in a place with all seasons. Some of my favorite places to find well-made shoes at a reasonable price are T.J. Maxx, Saks Off Fifth / Gilt, Nordstrom Rack, Amazon, 6pm, and Ross. Outlets and consignment/ thrift shops often have great options too!
I’m wearing a favorite outfit of mine with a few different pairs of shoes to show the visual difference it makes when you swap your footwear! A navy pinstripe jersey blazer, light wash straight leg jeans, and sturdy white t-shirt are the perfect backdrop to showcase this idea.
OUTFIT DETAILS
Tee— Uniqlo
Jeans— Levi’s 501 Straight
Sandals—Marc Fisher
Heels— Sam Edelman
Espadrilles— (similar)
Sunglasses— Dezi
Bag— Madewell (similar)
FUNKY FLATS
Whether studded sandals, colorful flats, or jeweled mules, comfortable funky flats are key in your shoe wardrobe. That way, something as simple as jeans and a t-shirt has instant personality, and you can still move freely. These Marc Fisher sandals are probably my most worn shoe to date. I have paired them with dresses, skirts, jeans, swimwear, and found they easily can be worn day or night. Since they’re leather, they have held up really well with lots of walking. A great black leather sandal like these feels a little more fun with the studs. Check out this pair of pave rhinestone flats that have been my favorite for Sunday Best outfits!
TIMELESS ESPADRILLES
I found these espadrille wedges at my local T.J. Maxx almost a decade ago and they are still kickin’ (literally)! The straps are leather, and the wedge heel is so comfortable. Espadrilles are such a timeless option to wear with really any outfit because they always look European chic, and never dated. A classic black, white, or tan will match a variety of outfits too. These are a staple in my closet whether I’m looking to dress up some jeans or add a classic/ preppy vibe to a more bohemian printed sundress. Every summer, you’ll find versions of these around most stores, but I would recommend looking for a pair with a simple wedge or even flat style and ankle tie strap. They are so elegant, yet never feel fussy.
STRAPPY HEELS
My strappy heel section of my closet does not get as much wear as I’d like, so I like to dress up casual outfits with an unexpected twist. These chunky heels are a bit more trendy than I usually go for, but I loved the green earth tones and croc heel. Sometimes it pays to have just one pair of super trendy shoes per season to add freshness and a modern touch to your usual favorite outfits. I love how these shoes look like you must be doing something fun while wearing them — isn’t that what personal style is all about? A strappy heel can showcase your fun side, while sticking to your signature style. Have fun with heel styles and colors too!
OTHER STYLES
There are other shoe styles I love for Spring and Summer that are not pictured here. They include, pointy toe flats or mules, ballet flats, booties, simple white sneakers, and ankle strap anything. I tend to have a mix of practical colors and shapes, think a black leather court heel, with some trendy shapes, like a strappy kitten heel which is very of-the-moment, to have a variety of options. Shoes are fun, and they really add a layer of style to an ordinary outfit that can’t be beat.