Tired of trying to choose between comfort and fashion? Here are three classic shoe styles that will keep you on-trend for summer.
Not everyone can wear gladiator sandals that have straps up to mid-calf, nor does everyone feel comfortable in Birkenstocks. But there is a graceful middle ground when it comes to shoes; here are three classic styles that can reflect current summer fashion without being gaudy or ridiculously uncomfortable.
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The Peeptoe Pump – From Day to Evening
This classic shoe has been popular since the 1950s and is still lovely, appropriate for work, and just sexy enough to keep the wearer feeling confident and beautiful. Newport News has a wonderful pair of peep-toe pumps for under $40, in two classic colors: nude, with pink insoles, and black patent, with an insole of summery yellow.
Victoria’s Secret also carries some gorgeous peep-toe slingbacks, like these, which are only $49 and come in three vacation-ready colors, white, yellow, and cobalt blue. These have 5″ heels, but the sole is made of thick cork, which is a wonderful shock absorber for the feet.
With a more moderate heel height of 2 3/4″, the peep-toe slingbacks from Nine West come in a delicious array of colors and patterns, and at a low cost of $69, they could become a summer staple, taking the wearer from work to dinner out or even to a resort or on a cruise.
The Versatile Leather Sandal
This is where the savvy shoe-shopper can really show her personality, because there are almost unlimited styles of leather sandals, in all price ranges and every degree of comfort. The key is to keep it simple.
These T-strap sandals from L.L.Bean are a great example of style and simplicity – they are comfortable, classic, and the metallic colors available make them suitable for day or evening. The price is right, too, at $44 a pair.
In a completely different style, but still classic and comfortable, these pretty sandals from Naturalizer Shoe Store are perfect with a peasant-style dress or skirt, or shorts and a girly top. Durably made, these sandals are sturdy enough for a day of shopping or playing out-of-doors.
To satisfy the inner glamazon, the red Calvin Klein “Nova” sandals are spicy enough for a hot night on the town but still cool and comfortable. These are available for $79 at Zappos.com, which features free shipping both ways on all shoes, all the time.
The Strappy Sandal – Almost Barefoot
The idea here is to be as close to barefoot as possible, while still wearing a high heel. It’s best to buy this type of shoe in person so that it’s possible to try on several pairs and be sure they are light and comfortable. If a shoe has a well-made arch and the straps are placed correctly, the shoe should balance perfectly on the foot and not feel like it’s going to fall off.
This pair, from Chadwicks.com, comes in five stylish colors, from classic black to Aegean blue. A steal at only $29.99, Chadwicks offers an even better deal: if a shopper buys two pairs, the price drops ten dollars.
Also from Chadwicks, this variation on that summer staple, the espadrille, combines comfort with style. The 4″ heel is a light wedge, and delicate straps in gold, black, nude, or bronze hold the shoe in place on the foot. Available online for $39.99.
Finally, this strappy sandal from Victoria’s Secret is the Ultimate Big Night Out Shoe. These are shoes Marilyn Monroe herself would have been delighted to wear, and then after her appearance at the party, she could be seen strolling down the beach barefoot with these glittery sandals dangling from one hand.
The woman who has a great pair of shoes in each of these categories can feel fully prepared for whatever this summer has to offer, whether it’s lounging on the deck of a sailboat, shopping in the city, or attending a Big Event. Choosing is half the fun, so make it last!
