This post is not about our favorite picks; it’s about making sure you have the basics.

Lots of shoes are on sale right now and many more are on their way into stores. Before you buy another bright, shiny pair, though, do you have your basics covered? Believe me, I have my eye on lots of other shoes than the ones listed here, but today, I’m asking you to make sure your go-to basics are there, ready to go. Here is our Basic Shoe Wardrobe blueprint, filled mostly with a neutral palette, which you can individualize to your own taste. And, be sensible: if you simply won’t ever wear a flat or a heel, then skip that part.  If you are ALWAYS super casual or dressy, put your money into that category. This blueprint will work for most to give you a guideline and help you take inventory of what you have.

And, lots of shoes are on sale at area stores right now.  Treat yourself to some shopping hours and check out the local boutiques and their offerings!

For more information on any shoe listed below, simply click the picture.

Boots:

I’m a boot girl.  I could own 20 pairs and wear them all.  So, it surprises me when someone says they don’t own any.  Really, you need ten pairs a pair of boots!  A pair of knee high boots is both practical (for warmth) and stylish.  Right now, you can find many on sale.  I find I wear my light brown boots more often than any others, as they look great with skirts, dresses and jeans. But, the “standard” to start with is black.  Go with your gut though; you may be like me, and be more of a brown girl.  And consider having one pair of dressy and one pair of casual.  From there, keep adding….

*To note: if you have larger calves, J Crew carries many styles that come in extended calf sizes.

Weather Boots:

You need rain boots, really.  And it’s good to have one pair of snow boots — even if you bring them out once a year.  This is more about function over fashion, but ones that make you smile are a must.

Rain (you could also do a rain shoe here, but boots are more protective):

Snow:

Black and Nude Heels:

The height of your heel is up to you, but buy some.  They really do make your legs look better!  I fall in love with 5″ heels, but I can’t wear them.  My max is about 3 1/2 inches.  Unlike a couple years ago, shoes are being offered in many heights, so take advantage.

You need a black and a nude heel.  If you can only have one, do the opposite of what you think: go nude.  And, you need one open toed/sandal and one closed toe of each.

Nude:

Black:

Flats:

You need a good pair of stylish walking flats. Put the sneakers away and still have your feet thank you. Do not skimp here buying a cheap pair – you need a good, supportive shoe that will allow you to run all over town. If you have two pairs, make sure one is a fun color.

 

Animal or Snakeskin Patterned:

Before you buy any other pattern, consider a leopard or snakeskin print. Both can be mixed with most any patterns giving them unparalleled versatility in your wardrobe.  If you can swing it, buy a pair of flats and heels.

Stylish Sandals:

Buy a pair of espadrilles, cork or wooden-heeled wedge sandals as the look is very now, yet has staying power. You can walk on grass with these and not sink. The heel heights are all over the place, so have fun with this one and buy one that you simply love.

Throw on sandals:

You know, the kind that can get wet and you can walk in for days.  Make sure you have a bit of height – even half an inch – as it’s better for your feet. These are the shoes that you live in on vacations and weekends and sometimes everyday.

 

You’ll of course need your workout shoes as well.

Okay, now that you have your basics covered, go buy yourself that shoe you are drooling over!