We've already waxed poetic about the classic clothing items you should never purge from your wardrobe (like a blazer or skinny jeans), and that story generated so many conversations that I felt it might be helpful to expand into another wardrobe staple: shoes. While shoe trends come and go, there are some styles you can let go of with little chance you'll want to wear them again (I'm looking at you, wedge sneakers), and there are other styles you're guaranteed to regret within months of tossing them.
Now I'm not talking about shoe styles that are totally thrashed. If you've worn a pair of shoes out past the point of repair, then, by all means, get rid of them. But if it's one of the styles I'm about to discuss, do yourself a favour and replace them with a new pair ASAP.
The below five styles are arguably the best shoe investments you could make because these simple, classic looks will always be on-trend and an important part of your wardrobe. From polished pumps to sleek black ankle boots, keep reading to see and shop the five shoes you should never ditch.
1. MONOTONE PUMPS
A good pair of sophisticated, solid-coloured pumps is the shoe equivalent of a great pair of skinny jeans. They might not be the trendiest piece in your wardrobe, but they're one of the most versatile. Monotone pumps can dress up jeans for evening drinks or make an office outfit feel ten times more polished as soon as you slip them on.
Shop the shoes:
These classy pumps will elevate every look.
I've been spotting these all over Instagram lately.
Such a fun pop of colour for the warmer months.
Opt for a lower heel if you're not confident walking in stilettos.
2. FLAT SANDALS
Every summer, you'll find yourself reaching for your chicest pair of flat sandals. Whether it's jetting off on a tropical holiday or just heading to an alfresco brunch, this shoe style is an absolute necessity for the warmer months.
Shop the shoes:
Fisherman sandals will be everywhere this summer.
Comfortable, practical and so chic.
I love the thick straps and gold buckles on this pair. It's all in the details.
The slight flatform will give you a little height without sacrificing your comfort.
3. CLASSIC SNEAKERS
Classic sneakers like Converse, Vans, and Adidas will always be a cool-girl wardrobe staple. Pair them with jeans, leggings, skirts, dresses—you name it. We love that they add an effortless air to any outfit. Plus, they're insanely comfortable and make the ideal travel shoes. You're pretty much guaranteed to end up repurchasing if you made the mistake of tossing these already (speaking from personal experience).
Shop the shoes:
These it-sneakers are selling out everywhere, so scoop them up while you have the chance.
The Chuck 70 has a slightly thicker sole than regular Converse.
Influencers are just as obsessed as ever with these sustainable kicks.
Embrace your inner skater girl.
4. BLACK ANKLE BOOTS
Name a more classic cold-weather shoe style than black ankle boots. Seriously. If you live in the UK, a good pair of black ankle boots is as essential to your year-round wardrobe as a white button-down or black blazer. They'll likely be the most-worn footwear in your closet, so do yourself a favour and hold on to these.
Shop the shoes:
So sleek.
This subtle western shape is a wearable way into the cowboy boot trend.
It doesn't get more classic than Chelsea boots.
These will work with jeans, dresses, skirts—you name it.
5. BALLET FLATS
Ballet flats are one of those shoe trends that we can see sticking around and never truly going out of style. They may seem like a short-lived trend because all of a sudden they've popped up everywhere, but think about it: ballerina-inspired pumps have been a thing for decades, and they go with literally everything. In other words, you can't go wrong with this everyday shoe.
Shop the shoes:
Possibly the finest ballet flats on the high street right now.
These make me feel really nostalgic.
This backless design is perfect for spring/summer.
Liven up your outfit with a splash of red.
Next up, the biggest spring/summer 2023 fashion trends to know.
This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
