Sure Brightly Colored Shoes are Fun, But are they Practical?
Well, we probably all know the answer to that question.
Let's face it, black, tan, beige, navy and other shades in the neutral rainbow are going to be far easier to work into your wardrobe. They'll see you through season after season, and year after year. And if you're going to take a chance, why not just go with red? It's sexy, versatile, and never goes out of style.
So does that mean you shouldn't buy into the brightly colored shoe trend?
Not necessarily. It just means that, as with any footwear trend, you should actually consider whether or not the shoe fits -- before you actually buy it.
Whether or not you should dive head first into this season's sea of brightly colored footwear depends largely on how you answer the following questions.
- Are you going to buy more than one or two new pair of shoes this season?
- Does your shoe closet already have enough basics, and need a shot of personality?
- Are you the type of person who will actually wear brightly colored shoes?
- Do you often wear colorful, black, or white clothes or accessories?
- Are you okay with the idea that shoes you buy this season not work with next fall's clothes, and might be horribly outdated next year?
If answered "yes" to most of those questions, then you don't need me to tell you to go out and get yourself a pair of orange pumps, because I know you've already bought some.
But if the person I described above doesn't sound a thing like you, then no matter how much you're secretly jonesing for those patent yellow sling-backs, you'll likely resent that purchase a few weeks down the road.
Now, I myself am a lover of all things colorful, and the last thing I want to do is discourage any blossoming risk-takers -- God knows, I love a convert.
So, if you're really willing to risk it, start with baby steps. Buy an affordable pair, in a style you adore, and a color that goes with at least one item you already own -- and commit to wearing them this week. That way, you'll at least get one good wear out of them, and the next time the bright shoes trend comes up the pike, you'll already know you gave it your all.
Pictured: Steve Madden "Percy" (Buy Direct)
Image provided SteveMadden.com
Comments
I’m usually a very adventurous shopper but I”m nervous about a pair of red suede Betsey Johnson ankle boots (The Willa II) they are adorable! But I’m scared to death to wear them! I’m a performer so they’ll be great for stage but I want to wear them on the street and not look like I’m trying too hard. Any suggestions?
Susan, Susan, Susan,
those boots are killer, and you seem to adore them, but something must be holding you back. Let’s break it down.
Red is a versatile color, that’s always fashionable, and, as you said, you can always wear them on stage.
I don’t really know what your budget is like, but I assume if they were too far out of your price range, you wouldn’t even be considering them. If they are too much of an extravagance, you might want to consider trying a pair of less expensive red boots first, and see how you do with them before committing to the more expensive ones.
The style is nothing that’s too “out there,” so I don’t think you have to worry that people will think you got all freaky on them or anything.
And since you’re not a usually a nervous shopper, I assume you’re not a conservative dresser either, and therefore I’m assuming they’ll work with the rest of your wardrobe.
So then. If this really all comes down to fear of wearing the color, my suggestion is to think of all the wonderful shoes and boots you’ll be able to wear once you get past that fear. Put on the boots, throw your shoulders back, and don’t ever let on that you’re uncomfortable … don’t ever let them smell your fear … you’re nerves will pass, and you’ll never look back. You’re now a woman who can, and does wear red shoes.
We should probably have another session though before you move on to, say, orange or purple shoes.
Let us know what you decide, and how it works out.
Best,
Desiree