The Three Shoes I Wear All Summer

Several weeks ago, I started the long, sad process of parting with my old wardrobe. I will never wear the same size I did when I was 30. How many pencil dresses does a woman who works from home need? And at what point does a girl have enough shoes that just collect dust waiting for a place to go? And thus, my beloved clothes and I are to be parted.

The truth is that I could make it through summer with just three pairs of shoes. I can pretend that I need different options, but I really don’t. So in partnership with DSW, I present the three pairs of summer shoes that I really wear.

Gold Sandals // There are a couple of summer weddings on my calendar this year, so I need a shoe that is comfortable enough to stand in for an entire cocktail hour, looks great, and can be worn with dressy attire or more casual choices.

This block heel gold sandal from Mix No. 6 is a fantastic option. The heel is more shapely than a standard block heel. The straps are a bit more delicate, and I like that I get a little lift without walking on stilts, because I simply don’t get the high heel practice I used to. For $35, I really don’t know how I could do better.

Bright Sneakers // My collection of summer t-shirt dresses needs a boost, and these pink and red Puma Club II sneakers are just the thing to give it to me. I have become a devotee of a cool sneaker, which lets me chase my kid through a jungle gym in style. Loving the idea of a colored sneaker, but maybe not this combination? The Pumas come in a few other colorways. Adidas always has some brighter options. And these Nike Pacifics bring the vintage vibes.

Brown Flat Sandals // If you looked on my feet in any summer since 2007, you would find a pair of simple, brown, flat sandals. I want a rubber sole for cushion and I want a shoe that stays on my foot. These Nisolo huaraches give me eight-month shoe that has the feel of a sandal with the stability of a shoe.

I had a pair of these years ago, and I wore them out. They take a little while to break in, but once they’re broken to your foot, they’re incredible. Plus, they look as good in April as they do in July as they do in October.

Prefer a “real” slide sandal? These Coach sandals are a nice option. For vacation, I love these cork sandals from Journee.

One Other Option // If none of these are for you, I recommend a cool espadrille. These espadrille wedges sandals are a good option for a stable, summery shoe that is versatile enough to wear with many outfits. Or, if you prefer a loafer style, these Soludos are the winners.

{this post was written in partnership with DSW. the retailer paid me a flat fee to write the post but did not direct or approve the content. the ideas and choices are my own. this post contains affiliate links that may generate commission for the author}