One Editor Reveals How Many Shoes You Should Really Own

I'm not about to tell you that you should own a million pairs of shoes. Quite the opposite, in fact—no one wants to find themselves in a Carrie Bradshaw situation, no matter how dreamy it might seem at the outset. I consider myself a minimalist when it comes to my wardrobe. I rarely have any colour in it and tend to stick to the basics: grey, black, blue, camel, white and khaki. I do deviate sometimes, but that has to be for a special occasion (e.g., a pink dress I bought for a wedding-guest look).

I apply this fairly strict rule to my shoe wardrobe, too, as I want to reduce the stress I have selecting my outfit in the morning. Now, if you have the kind of shoe obsession that means you can't go a month without buying a new pair, that's fair enough. However, if you're keen to know how many you should own to keep looking chic and never under-dressed but without loads of clutter, then read on for my simple guide—because this amount clearly can work. Keep scrolling for one editor's tips on how many shoes you should really own…

2 Pairs of Sneakers

Style Notes: There's no escaping that trainers have become a part of everyone's wardrobes—and not just the ones you work out in. Pair box-fresh white sneakers with dresses, skirts, and even suits for a smart/casual style. But don't forget you need a pair for working out as well.

2 Pairs of Comfortable Heels

Style Notes: Our love for heels hasn't waned so much that we'd ever get rid of them totally, but our lust for sky-scrapped stilettos has. Instead, try block heels in a bold colour. Not only will you still get the height, but you'll be able to walk more confidently in them too.

1 Pair of Fashion Heels

Style Notes: Okay, this one can be optional, but you know those shoes that make everyone stare and then ask you where you got them from? That's the kind of footwear I'm talking about here. Whether that's a pair of super-high heels in a bright hue or just incredible embellishments, don't be afraid to keep a "wow" pair stashed in your wardrobe for when you want to stand out.

1 Pair of Ankle Boots

Style Notes: Who doesn't own a pair of ankle boots? Seriously, though, come the autumn, that's all you'll find me wearing. (I'm actually wearing a pair right now—thanks, nonexistent summer.) Whether they're in black or brown or a bolder colour, there are plenty to choose from. Want more? Check out our guide to the best ankle boots right now.

1 Pair of Loafers

Style Notes: Another trend that has skyrocketed ever since Alessandro Michele took over at Gucci is loafers. If you can't afford the high-end prices, look to the high street for just-as-cool styles. Ideal for the office when you don't want to wear heels.

1 Pair of Fancy Flats

Style Notes: So you've worn your sneakers, your loafers and your comfy heels to the office already this week. But you've got two more days to get through. To help keep your workwear attire exciting, invest in some fancy flats. Also great for when you don't want to wear heels on a night out.

One Pair of Flat Sandals

Style Notes: Come summer, don't panic—buy the first pair of sandals you see. Instead, make sure you have some you come back to every season that last. I've had the same pair of Birkenstocks for three years, and they're still going strong (and happily, they're on trend).

1 Pair of Heeled Sandals

Style Notes: The heels you need for summer parties and weddings—you can go as high or as low as you want. Try metallics or barely there sandals to be seriously elegant.

1 Pair of Boots for Bad Weather

Style Notes: Good news, comfy shoe lovers: Dr. Martens are set to be huge this coming season. But if that's not your thing, then just a pair of flat boots will work, because I don't need to tell you that wet feet are not chic.

Total: 11 Pairs of Shoes

Next up: the biggest autumn/winter 2017 fashion trends you need to know about.