Categories: Fashion

Top Shoe Styles To Invest In During Your Twenties

When you’re growing up and outgrowing of shoes every year, splurging on nice pieces (that you’re probably going to ruin by running through the garden anyway) doesn’t seem like a worthwhile investment. As you hit your twenties, however, curating a shoe collection that fits your style and is versatile enough to cover the functions you’ll need to attend becomes something to consider. Here are seven staple styles every girl should have in her wardrobe!

1. The Classic Black Heel

A nice black heel will seamlessly take you from the workplace to a night out ⁠— a trek you’ll likely be making often as you start your professional journey. A classic example is Prada’s Pointy Toe Pump and if there is any item on this list to really invest in, it’s this one. A black pump will never go out of style, and the better quality you buy now, the longer it will last. Having said that, an investment doesn’t have to mean a month’s rent and you can find similar, well-made styles from brands such as Banana Republic.

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2. A Nude Pump

Growing up, I never had nude heels as I always opted for a black pair or a boldly colored one to match my exact outfit (those pairs got exactly as much wear out of them as you’d expect). Nowadays, a nude heel is my go-to pick for fancy outfits, formal wear, and even as an unexpected touch of fun if I’m wearing all black. The Sam Edelman Patti Strappy Sandal heel retails for $100 and is a brand that has been recognized not only as fashion-forward but also as extremely comfortable if you’re wearing these for long events or long workdays.

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3. From Grunge to Glamour: Ankle Boots

I’m always surprised by the amount of wear I get out of my ankle boots, finding them an easy way to spice up an otherwise ordinary jean-based outfit. Pick whether black or brown works best for your wardrobe, and find a comfortable brand you won’t wear out. The best part about wearing booties is that you get the height of a heel without the foot soreness to go with it.

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4. Upgrade to Classy Sneakers

Trade your converse and Adidas sneakers in for something a little more refined. Depending on your style, you may have tons of sneakers still kicking around in your closet and that’s totally fine. I’m just advocating for investing in at least one pair you wouldn’t take to the park. These sneakers can be work to work on casual days or just on errand runs, but they help you look and feel a little more sophisticated as you go about your days.

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5. Casual Flats

Goodbye flip-flops, hello sandals. Grab yourself a pair of brown sandals that you can wear to the beach or out shopping with your girls. Whether you’re into the gladiator look or something a little simpler, this is a great piece to showcase your style while still buying something that could last you a decade.

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6. Pop of Color Flats

While this article is focused on looking your age and finding shoes that match your evolving lifestyle, you’re still only in your twenties. Your shoes should still reflect who you are and your willingness to take risks and look fun, and there’s no better way to do that than to pick a pair of sensible flats — and buy them in a crazy color. The number of all-black outfits I’ve felt great in because of a cobalt flat is unreal, and I can’t see that changing anytime soon.

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7. Personality Piece

Finally, spend some time searching for really nice, somewhat fancy shoes. Whether this is an unconventional heel you’ve been eyeing, a sustainable leather shoe from the Italian leather markets themselves, or a well-made and thought out pair of oxfords, pick a piece you can wear to look and feel expensive, refined, and like yourself.

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