Wardrobe Essentials that Won't Break the Bank - Part 2: Shoes

Marilyn Monroe once said “give a girl the right shoes and she can conquer the world” and this is true - to a less dramatic degree. Shoes can make or break an outfit and feeling good in your shoes will change the way you walk and feel throughout your work day, gala event etc. I love a bold and daring shoe, but in the vein of “simplifying” and budgeting, let’s stick to essentials that every closet needs. With these in your wardrobe, you will never NOT have a great looking shoe to go with your outfit.This is Part Two of a three-part series - this week is all about shoes:Flats – flats have come a long way from the ballet variety and some beautiful, more substantial designs (penny loafer, brogue, tassel) can take you from work to dinner without you having to change anything above the ankles. Ted Baker “Cadeen” Flat - pictured ($145), Zara “Penny Loafers” ($59.90), Sole Society Embellished Flat ($89)Classic Pumps – Black and nude (matte or patent) will generally cover all of your bases. If you have low pain tolerance when it comes to pumps, then try a more comfortable heel. I am personally a glutton for punishment so I will suffer for fashion. If that ISN’T you, opt for low, chunky or wedge heels to keep you from reaching for your flats. Some brilliant designers have even made some stylish pumps with comfort in mind. Sounds too good to be true, but it does exist! Cole Haan “Catalina” Wedge ($170 USD), Aldo “Unenan” ($85) or Michael Kors “MK Flex Mid Pump” - pictured ($138) for a comfy heelBlack Heeled Booties – these are appropriate for more than half the year and worth the investment. They are versatile and look great with jeans, but can also add a funk factor to a cute dress or skirt. I highly suggest you get something comfortable because these are shoes you will get a ton of wear out of. Michael Kors “Brandy” - pictured ($179.98 on sale at Browns Shoes), Aldo “Ransome” ($58 on sale), Zara “High Heel with Pull Tab” ($119)Nude Strappy Sandals – when you need to add some glam, nothing does it better than the iconic Manolo Blahnik “Chaos” ankle strap sandal. I know most of you would probably rather make rent this month, so I am here to tell you that thankfully there are many other designers making their own  version of this shoe for a fraction of the price. These can dress up any outfit and are simple and classy enough to take you through a whole year of special events. Even pair them with jeans when the weather is nice! Steve Madden “Stecy” heels - pictured ($90) or Nine West “Mana” heels ($135).Stay tuned next week for Part Three, essential accessories for your wardrobe. MeVest Blog Contributor, Tracy Fu from preshrunk.ca