034: A Hammer, a Wrench, and a Kitten Heel.

Shoes as a tool in your wardrobe

Sep 30, 2024

Shoes are a small but mighty tool in your wardrobe that shouldn’t be underestimated. They are pivotal in making the conversation of an outfit, and I am here to show you how.

I realised that shoes function as a polishing agent in my wardrobe. That is, they are a tool I use to add polish to an outfit and infuse a chic touch. I opt for smarter shoes, such as a loafer or a ballet flat, because a lot of my clothes are on the baggier side. Wearing a baggy pair of jeans and an oversized jacket will leave me feeling frumpy if I pair them with a sneaker or a chunky boot. With the more formal leaning shoe choice, it balances out the overall outfit and does not allow the scale to tip too hard towards either end. Using my shoes as a way to contradict the rest of my outfit ensures that they are multi-dimensional and therefore more compelling overall.

The above is specific to my wardrobe, but this works with any shoe choice. If you find that your outfits are on the smart side, then consider switching your shoe choice to a chunkier one, for example, and see how this helps add a more dynamic edge to your outfits. If your outfits are on the sexier side and you want to wear a heel with your outfits, consider a square toe or major platform to offset the obvious and most in line choice, as this added friction adds more personality to your looks.

Hades jumper, Cos skirt, Adidas sneakers, Le Monde Beryl pumps, Massimo Dutti clutch.

Both outfits above have the exact same components, but the shoe choice takes them down two different lanes. The trainers in the first outfit work to bring a casual edge to the classic skirt and sweater combination, making it appropriate for running around and getting through your errands. However, the pointed toe pumps in the second outfit immediately elevate it and make the outfit smart enough to transition from day to night. The pointed toe is a more glamorous offering, with its narrow edge demanding to be taken seriously, and this gives your outfit more of a formal edge. Something as simple as a shoe swap allows your outfit to have a completely different message, and this is a testament to the importance of your shoe choice.

Hope you have a great week and speak to you soon :)