Shoe Basics: 15 Must Have Shoes Every Woman Should Own.

BY ROSELLE KWAN MARIANO.
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Ask any girl if she can trim down her shoe collection to just a few pairs, and she will freak out. However, even if you have several thousand shoes in your shoe closet like Celine Dion, you will still feel unsatisfied if you don’t have the essentials.

No, this article isn’t about how many shoes you should own. It’s about what staple shoe styles you should always have on your shoe rack at any given moment — no matter how young, old, extravagant, or frugal you are.
We’ve narrowed down the essentials to a realistic number that won’t get violent reactions from shoe lovers. We know you can’t settle with just 5 pairs or be content with 10. So, after careful thought and consideration, we’re recommending 15 shoe styles to collect.
This is a relatively small number, but we guarantee that these basics will get you through all four seasons and help you look fashionable. Keep this list in mind, and compare it with what you have. You can find the shoes we’re featuring below at Shopbop.

1. Classic Black Pumps.
Classic black pumps are a must for any girl, no matter the age. You can wear them with dresses, jeans, shorts, and practically anything in your closet.
You’ll need them for your graduation, for work, for a party, or for a red carpet appearance. And if you’re fond of wearing black like Angelina Jolie, you’ll need those black pumps even more. Seriously, not having at least one pair of that is considered a sin in our books.

2. Nude Heels.
Nude heels are a girl’s best friend. They elongate your legs, and they go with just about anything in your closet. You don’t have to have the most expensive pair; just grab the ones that are tall but comfortable enough to walk around in.
Trust us, you’ll be putting those nude heels in heavy rotation all year round. Best to go with peep-toes or classic pumps with this particular shoe-have.

3. Bold Animal-Print or Exotic-Skin Heels.
Face it, animal prints, whether snake print or cheetah print, have become a perennial classic in fashion. It’s not a fad anymore.
In fact, you can sport animal prints at any time of the year. When it comes to shoes, a pair of bold animal-print heels is a must in your closet. It will give even the simplest of outfits a megadose of drama.

4. Sexy Ankle-Strap Sandals.
You’ll need a pair of these shoes for your jeans, shorts, and red carpet frocks. They’re timeless and they’re infinitely sexy.
Consider the ankle-strap sandals a go-to for almost any occasion. Just check out how Rihanna styled her Manolo Blahnik “Chaos” sandals if you need tips on how to wear them.

5. Fancy Metallic Heels.
Fancy statement heels that turn heads and take the spotlight are necessary for special occasions that require you to dress to the nines. We’re talking black-tie soirees and the Oscars here.
The great thing about these shoes is that you can also use them to dress up casual pieces like jeans. Go with classic gold or silver hues that are versatile. Pick a pair that will complement the cocktail dresses in your closet.

6. Ankle Boots.
We can’t think of anyone who doesn’t have good ol’ ankle boots in her closet. They’re very reliable, especially when you want to look edgy and cool. Always pick a pair that flatters your legs and feels comfortable on your feet.
We recommend that you grab boots in classic or neutral hues like black or brown. Ankle boots go with just about any outfit, whether it’s a dress or jeans, and this is precisely the reason why you must own at least a pair.

7. Flat Leather Sandals.
Flat strappy sandals are a must-have during spring and summer. If you like taking trips to tropical destinations or you enjoy basking in the French Riviera sun, then all the more that you will need a pair.
You can wear them with jeans, summer dresses, or short shorts. Go with strappy sandals in tan, taupe, or brown.

8. Go-To Sneakers.
Yes, even if you’re a 60-year-old nana, trust us when we say you’re bound to need a pair of sneakers, whether for completing a certain look, for traveling, or for running errands.
While Converse Chuck Taylor kicks are the popular choice for most people, we fancy and recommend the Superga “Cotu” classic sneakers. The silhouette of these shoes is more feminine and flattering.

9. Ballerina Flats.
We’ve yet to meet a girl who doesn’t own a pair of ballet flats. When it comes to go-to shoes, ballet flats are the most popular choice. They’re comfortable and feminine, and they give you that too-cool-to-dress-up vibe.
Ballet flats are always on heavy rotation in any girl’s closet, not just because they’re easy-to-wear but also because they go well with your everyday wear.

10. Pointy Flats.
Pointy flats are just as comfortable as ballet flats. But on top of that, they’re more feminine and a lot dressier, and they give your look a more polished and sophisticated feel. Because of the silhouette, pointy flats are also more flattering to wear.
If you’re petite, these shoes are a must. And if you want to take it a little further, pick a pair that comes in a neutral color close to your skin tone. Doing so will make your legs look even longer.

11. Wedge Sandals.
Need we say why you need a pair? Wedge sandals are great with day dresses, shorts, skirts, and maxi frocks. They’re also necessary for beach parties (heels dig into the sand; wedges don’t).
Pick wedge sandals in neutral colors so you can pair them with various outfits.

12. Tall Boots.
Whether heeled or flat, tall boots are necessary for your wardrobe, especially once the cold seasons set in. While they’re not as versatile as ankle boots, you will need a pair to keep your legs warm.
Besides, tall boots are sexy, whether you wear them with jeans or short skirts. To make sure you get a lot of mileage out of them, get them in classic black or brown.

13. Oxfords.
There’s something about these men-inspired shoes that make them essential.
Oxfords or brogues give your outfit a laid-back vibe that is unique and irreplaceable. Worn with feminine pieces, they make you look infinitely chic. All the more reason to own a pair, would you agree?

14. Open-Toe Booties.
Like the oxfords, open-toe booties give your look a certain oomph that’s both sexy and edgy. Truth be told, we never thought these shoes would turn into a classic. Nowadays, however, they’re the perfect alternative to heeled ankle boots.
And just like the predecessor, you can wear them with almost anything — for as long as they come in a wearable and versatile color.

15. All-Weather Boots.
Need we explain why you need a pair of all-weather boots? They’re necessary for wet days. But just because the weather isn’t cooperating doesn’t mean you can’t look fashionable in your rain gear.
If you want waterproof boots, grab ones that are just as sleek and sophisticated as you are — like the Sloosh Italy Original rain boots below. They seem perfect. What do you think?

(source : https://www.yournextshoes.com/shoe-basics-staple-shoes/)