Put your best foot forward

Maybe it’s because my feet are so swollen I can’t fit into any of my pre-pregnancy shoes, but lately, I’ve been dreaming about redoing my shoe collection. If you’re anything like me, your own shoe closet is a bit of a mess: old flip flops, worn boots and a collection of dull black work flats. Let’s get out of this shoe rut together!

First, consider your lawyer lifestyle. Do you walk to work, drive or take transit? Are you heading to tons of meetings every day? Walking to court? Or do you have a relatively sedentary job, parked at your desk? Consider the pace of your day, the activities you usually engage in after work and your own preferences. I love heels because of the way they look — so sleek and elegant — but I fully admit that they are neither comfortable nor practical. I don’t want to see any of my dear readers hobbling around on stilettos, cursing me as they nurse their blisters!

Once you’ve taken stock of your lifestyle tendencies, consider what styles will fit best. Generally speaking, I think a basic work “shoedrobe” should be comprised of the following:

• Black flats (one basic round or pointy-toe pair; another with embellishment or cool detailing)

• Black pumps (patent looks great)

• Nude pumps (check these out)

• Black booties (can be transitioned from work to play)

• Riding boots (for walking to and from work in all seasons but summer, and on casual Fridays over skinny jeans)

I know, I know — pretty obvious. But you’d be surprised at how many shoedrobes are missing these essentials. The above styles are classic, elegant, wearable and versatile, regardless of whether you’re a suit, dress or pants girl. Trust me: you can all wear these no matter what your style or lack thereof.

When you consider this list in conjunction with your lifestyle, it may work best for you to replace the nude pumps with nude flats, or to switch the booties for a second pair of black pumps. It’s up to you to buy what you need; the above list is only a guideline.  Now that you know the basics, review your shoe collection and toss out anything that doesn’t work: those sandals from your university formal, shoes that don’t fit, the orange flats you bought on sale and have never worn because you actually hate them. Just put them in the Goodwill bag and forgetaboutthem. Who deserves these more: your closet, or someone less fortunate? Exactly.

Now, take stock of what remains to see what you’re missing, or what needs upgrading. Maybe you already have a pair of nude pumps that actually aren’t so bad when they’re not paired with that hideous rhinestone-encrusted bridesmaid dress. Maybe you can take those old black flats to a shoemaker and have them buffed to look brand new. You may be surprised at what you unearth from your own closet; I know I was. I even found shoes I’d forgotten I own — I buy with the best intentions, only to rely on the same pair most days. Take your own advice, Style Counsel!

Finally, it’s time to shop. This is the fun part (hopefully!). I find shoe shopping stressful at times, since I have a hard time finding shoes that fit properly. Now it’s even worse that I can’t fit into my usual size OR the one up (apparently, my foot shape is now “swollen.” They don’t make sizes for that). Also, true to form, the second you go to the mall actually needing a particular thing, you can’t find it. All that being said, take your list and enjoy yourself.

I recommend starting with The Shoe Company, The Bay, J. Crew and Winners. The Shoe Company always has a good stock of dependable black pumps and flats from brands like Nine West, Enzo Angiolini and Guess at up to 50% off the retail price. Though the shopping experience can be challenging — you have to paw through boxes to find your size — it’s worth it when you save serious money. The Bay, of course, is packed with tons of brands at various price points, so you can’t go wrong spending an afternoon there. Though pricey, J. Crew is my go-to place for clean, classic styles that never go out of fashion and are beautifully made (check these out and try not to salivate on your keyboard). Finally, the price is right at Winners, though the selection can be picked over and you have to be patient.

Once you have your basics down, expand your collection by adding a few flamboyant pairs from time to time. I love these striped bow pumps (and I AM salivating on my keyboard as I write this). For trendier styles, check out Zara or Aldo. When buying “fun” shoes, make sure they are work-appropriate and versatile; can you wear them with a skirt and sweater and your suit? Do they work with the length of your work pants? You want to end up with shoes you actually wear, not a shoe museum.

Hopefully your tootsies will thank me as you show them off in your new footwear. Happy shopping!