If you’re anything like (past) me, you have a huge collection of shoes (and clothes) but always need to get something new for different occasions because I felt like I own nothing. I have been practicing quality over quantity for about 3 years now and while my wardrobe is currently small and has holes in it because I refuse to spend my money on something if it’s not perfect, I believe have it figured out when it comes to shoes. So, what shoes should every woman own? Enjoy the list and share your thoughts below.

Classic Trainers

A good, clean pair of classic trainers. Trainers have trends like all other fashion categories and by all means, fall into a trend if you want to, but not before you own a pair of classic trainers that will literally never go out of style. For this reason, I think the best trainers for woman are the classic Converse Chuck Taylor sneaker. They are cute with a summer dress or shorts and stylish with jeans or active wear. And if you do like something a bit beyond the basic, they come in many variants of the original style. The beauty is that they are never trending so never in fashion, and will never go out. They are also very reasonably priced and great shoes for any age group!

I’m partial to white like most women, but have just fallen in love with the beige too. However, I don’t think they have to be white if you’re a gal who prefers bright colours or black, Converse has a shoe for you.

Pumps in Nude and Black

Pumps can be worn to the office, out on the town with a dress, out to lunch with jeans, everywhere. Most luxury designer pumps don’t come with features designed to be comfortable, but I found the holy grail of pumps and it’s called the “Perfect Pump” by Sarah Flint. These are the most comfortable stiletto heels in the world. They have a memory foam footbed, anatomical arch support and a slightly wider toe box so they shouldn’t pinch your toes. I’ve spent whole days running around the city in mine and I’m seriously thinking of adding another pair to my collection. Get yourself a pair in nude and in black and you’ll find yourself reaching for them time and time again.

1. Available in 3 heel heights – 50mm, 85mm and 100mm
2. They are also available in a round toe version “Perfect Round Toe Pump” (70mm heigh) with all the same features that make it “Perfect”.
3. Nude options include a light beige calf leather and a deeper chocolate brown suede which is absolutely stunning!
4. Handmade Italian leather shoes that come in 100%recyclable and plastic free packaging.
5. I have a $50 discount for you if you shop here or you can enter SARAHFLINT-BANIKKILASKA at the checkout at sarahflint.com

Versatile Sandals

I love a block sandal. Much like the pump, they can be worn day or night, casually or elegantly, and best of all, they don’t get stuck in the grass. I suggest starting with a metallic, it’s neutral, can be worn beautifully with a fancy black dress, or with jeans and a cute summer top. The best block sandals are:

1. I have to suggest the Perfect Block Sandal by Sarah Flint once again because it’s made with the same technology that makes the pump perfect and ultra comfortable, so it’s the obvious choice (that and I have a discount for you if buy Sarah Flint shoes here or enter code SARAHFLINT-BANIKKILASKA at the checkout). It also comes in three heel heights: 30mm, 60mm and 90mm so you’ll find something perfect for you. When I first tried mine on(I have the 60mm) I thought I had died and gone to heaven. They are the softest shoes.
2. Nine West Sandy Sandals in Rose. These are a similar silhouette and a very cute rose gold. A bit different to the usual golds and silvers.
3. Gucci GG Metallic laminate leather mid-heel sandal. For something a little bit extra but still versatile in the same way as the others, check these beauties out! The crinkled effect on the leather and wavy strap over the foot adds a touch of difference to a daily simple silhouette. The GG hardware adding a bit more bling doesn’t hurt either.

Flats

Flats are trickier than you might think. I’m a day to day sneakers gal and actually didn’t own flats for the longest time! The problem was, that a few times a year, I’d need a pair of shoes that wasn’t trainers and I’d end up having to wear heels and looking over dressed. So if you’re wondering what is the best flat shoes that will stand the test of time, have a look at the list below.

1. Manolo Blahnik Hangisi buckle detail flats. These are high on my personal Wishlist. These are iconic and will always be chic. Personally, I think a pointed toe is always more flattering and if I had to choose between these or the iconic Chanel Ballet Flat, the Manolo’s are far more beautiful.
2. Speaking of pointed toe flats, I can’t not mention Sarah Flint’s Natalie flat here. It’s their most popular shoe (and another one in my collection so I’m speaking from experience). It’s a stunning shoe, incredibly well made and available in lots of colours and even a slingback option.
3. Salvatore Ferragamo Viva Flats – I’m so happy Ferragamo have released these. They are masters at quality footwear but the Vara and Varina feel quite dated. This new style (I’m biased given I love a pointy toe) is so refreshing, and available in gorgeous colours as well as black, of course.
4. If pointed toes aren’t your thing, then I have another Sarah Flint style to suggest with a gorgeous almost shaped toe. It’s called the Sachetto and gives Chanel vibes with the capped toe if that’s your style. Very elegant and available in a variety of colours.
5. Of course your flats don’t have to be ballet flats, a loafer is just as timeless so go for that if it fits in with your style more! I love these chunky ones from Tod’s.

That’s it for my must have shoes! I will do a seperate post especially for boots, but let me know what you think of these, whether you own any and can share some insight and what do you think is missing?

Til next time!

Nikki x