Do you have a wardrobe full of shoes or just a few to get the job done?
I’m somewhere in the middle. I appreciate beautiful shoes, but I also want to own shoes that I can wear with multiple outfits and get a lot of use out of.
It can be overwhelming (and expensive) to have a shoe to fit every imaginable wardrobe need. Narrowing it down to a few staple shoes that you will reach for time and time again will give you the confidence to create beautiful outfits every day!
Today I want to share with you 7 essential shoes to include in your Type 2 wardrobe.
1: Wedge Heel
I prefer a wedge heel over a basic pump. A wedge is a classic Type 2 design line that will support you in creating dressier looks. Take a look at the color of your favorite dresses and skirts to determine if neutral gray or taupe would be a better fit. Or go for a soft pink or green to add some color.
You can determine what heel height would be best based on your comfort preferences. (Most Type 2s choose a lower heel height.) If you prefer a pump over a wedge, honor that preference and choose a great neutral color so you can be sure to get many uses out of it.
2: Dressier Flats
A simple flat could become your everyday, go-to shoe. Go with a neutral brown or gray, or choose a softer color like nude or blush pink.
For added detail, look for a flat with accents such as a bow, buckle, or gem. Choose your favorite toe line: oval, rounded, or soft point (my personal fave). And make sure they are comfy!
3: Ankle Boots
Years ago I was hesitant to try an ankle boot, I thought my ankles would get chilly!
I love my ankle boots. They aren’t as bulky as tall boots, but still offer more coverage than a flat or sneaker. They are my most worn shoe this season since they look great with both jeans, skirts, and dresses! (And my ankles are staying warm, btw.)
4: Riding Boots
If you live in a cold climate, you’ll definitely want to invest in a pair of riding boots. They offer protection and warmth, and they also look great with skinny jeans and a relaxed-fit sweater. They’re usually made with a lower heel, so they’re also comfortable!
I have both gray and taupe and wear my taupe boots more. You can decide if you want a slouchy or more structured design line. I prefer less bulk on the lower half of my body, so I choose a boot that is a little sleeker in the design line.
5: Patterned Shoe
Adding pattern to your shoes creates a “connecting factor” and is such a fun touch! You’ll look like the most fashionable lady on the block. And because of all the colors in the pattern, they can be worn with a wide range of outfits!
6: Casual Flats or Sneakers
I’m not talking gym shoes—I’m talking stylish comfort. There are so many options when it comes to on-the-go comfort shoes. This would be a fun place to pull in some color and add even more pattern.
You’ll want to make sure that you get ankle socks for these shoes, or find a pair that doesn’t need to be worn with socks. Otherwise, they’ll look bulky and unpolished.
7: Sandals
Is it summer yet?! My toes love to breathe, so my feet love sandals.
The key here is comfort. I have gone through a lot of uncomfortable sandals – too bulky, too tight, the toe fits weird, too scratchy, etc. So make sure you buy a fit and fabric you know you’ll love. The sandals shown below can be worn up or down – very versatile.
Want even more shoe inspiration?
As you know, shoes can make or break an outfit. You want to get it right! Did you know that as a Lifestyle member, you get access to our StyleInspire boards? Twice a week, we publish a brand new board of Type 2 styles, shoes, clothes, and accessories to make shopping so simple for you!
Check out the StyleInspire boards here!
Now I’d love to hear from you. Do you own these 7 essential shoes? What’s missing from your shoe collection? What would you add to the list? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Love this! I’m finding I wear my booties a lot more than my knee high or higher boots, too. Easier to put on. This is great – and I love the feature of being able to just click on any image to bring me to the buying site. Thanks, Anne, once again, for another really helpful and fun post! 🙂
The tall gray scrunch boots are great. Would love to find a pair.
Click on the picture and it will take you right to that pair! They are less than $20.
I started DYT a few months ago and have now acquired my first: riding boots, ankle boots, and wedge heels. I also replaced a lot of black footwear with grey, slate and taupe. I can’t believe how much it’s opened up for me. I’ve never been into shoes, but not having the right shoe type was preventing me from trying out certain types of outfits (i.e., leggings) or causing me to feel extremely uncomfortable, knowing that certain things didn’t look right. I would know I needed different shoes, but also really needed someone to walk me through it (no pun intended, haha)! Now that I have the basics covered I can try new styles and take other risks, all while staying in a very cozy comfort zone.
Glad we could ‘walk’ you through this Nancy! Enjoy!
I just got some wedge pumps, which I have always wanted for dressier occasions. I love flats the most but some outfits just look better with a heel! I also got some ankle boots this winter and I do love them! They are a soft faux suede with a thicker heel. I have found taupe goes really well with both grey and brown, so I have kept my eye out for this color. I would love to find some grey tall boots. I have tall boots in brown which I love, but sometimes I could use a grey pair. Now that winter is half over there may be some great sales on boots coming up!
Anne, thanks so much for creating this for us T2 women. My shoe wardrobe is lacking tall boots, unless I count my Sorel boots. My addition to the list: a Merrell slide called Encore Ice, so cozy I often use them instead of slippers in the house. Especially like that the soles on are dark grey not black; soles are the hardest component to find in T2. Lodjia
You are welcome! I’m glad you found this helpful!
I like bottom 2 of the 3 ankle boots but nothing else really .. I like a bit more funky, edgy yet elegant kitten heel (1 – 1/2 in. ) For dress shoes (work or dress casual) I lov3 this heel & look – elegantly funky…. perhaps i’m 2nd T3, don’t know yet … 😉