When it comes to finding practical basics, we're good at stockpiling the perfect white tees or jeans. However, when it comes to shoes, we could use a little more work. How tempting is it to spend money on a pair of zebra-print Manolo Blahniks rather than a pair of smart loafers? Living in London (where your feet take a battering from all the walking) and being a minimalist, I've come to appreciate the pairs I can rely on. I love shoes that go with just about anything. They don't need to be flashy; they just have to work. I'm talking about the kinds that make up the bones of your footwear wardrobe.
From Birkenstocks to strappy heels to the perfect Chelsea boots, there are certain styles that just feel like they've always been there for us. These are the ones you'll repeat-buy, repair and wear for years. Trends come and go, but these shoes are simple enough to always work—no matter your personal style. Keep scrolling to shop the most reliable of shoes and create the perfect capsule wardrobe just for your feet.
THE LOAFERS
THE HEELS
THE TRAINERS
THE SANDALS
THE BOOTS
THE BALLET FLATS
THE OXFORDS
Feature Image: @brittanybathgate
Up Next: How to Build a Capsule Wardrobe That Will Last a Lifetime
-
Simone Ashley Is in the Fast LaneSince her breakout role in Bridgerton, our Spring Issue cover star has quickly risen to A-list status. Up next, she masters the rom-com leading lady.
-
The Spring 2025 Shopping Guide: Where to Buy the Biggest Trends of the SeasonYour short list of the season's key buys.
-
I Hate to Admit It, But After Purging My Closet, I Had to Rebuy These 8 Hero PiecesHere's what I learned after my closet identity crisis.
-
I Asked Women Whose Style I Admire About Their Capsule Wardrobes—They Shared These Golden RulesHere's the tea.
-
I'm Telling All My Friends About the Elevated Brand NYC's Coolest Fashion People Already Know AboutNow you're in the loop too.
-
I'm Giving the Shoppers What They Want—31 Chic Items From Zara, J.Crew, Nordstrom, and COSPre-spring staples ahead.
-
I'm Ready to Embrace a Capsule Wardrobe—29 Madewell Items I'm Starting WithIt has nonbasic basics on lock.
-
It's Only February, But Parisians Have Already Chosen Their 5 Go-To Wardrobe Staples of 2025Chic on repeat.
-
Sorry, White Tops—Kendall Jenner and Hailey Bieber Are Making a Case for This Elegant AltIt girl approved.
-
The Only 38 Classic Fashion Pieces That Matter NowAnd forever.
