9 Shoes That Never Go Out of Style

Micro trends come and go, and while we'll never shame you for buying something trendy you truly love, you’re better off investing in a pair that has stood the test of time. Lest you think the rotation could get boring, there are at least nine different styles you can keep in your closet and turn to season after season. 

You don’t have to splurge to curate a closet of versatile, high-quality shoes. Some of our favorite sneakers — like Adidas Stan Smiths and classic Converse — and ring in at $100 or less, and you can get great boots and sandals for a bargain too. When it comes to building a repertoire of staple styles, it’s less about which brand you buy and more about the silhouette and quality of any given pair. The question to ask yourself is: Will you wear them enough to justify the cost?

So, which shoes are worth keeping in (or adding to) your collection? Below, we’ve rounded up our forever go-tos.

White Sneakers

Whether you're wearing a pair of baggy jeans, leggings, or even a breezy dress, nothing makes an outfit feel casual yet cool like a crisp white pair of sneakers. Certain styles have remained in rotation for years, including Meghan Markle’s beloved Adidas Stan Smiths, classic Converse kicks, and the ubiquitous slip-on Vans. Bonus points: Each pair we just listed is under $150.

Pointed-Toe Pumps

Every so often, heels receive a trend-forward update — perhaps the toe becomes more rounded, or it’s all about the platform. Keeping up can feel overwhelming, but you'll never go wrong with a timeless pointed-toe pump. The silhouette not only elongates the leg, but it continues to pop up as a celebrity (and royal) favorite.

Loafers

Preppy fashion may be reinvented in new iterations (hello, Wednesday-core), but no matter your preferred spin on the trend, loafers continue to be part of the mix. The style is a timeless alternative to heels or sneakers when it comes to office or business attire, and it comes across as equally sleek and stylish.

Heeled Sandals

If you fear classic pumps look out of place with an outfit, swap ’em for two-strap sandals. Since so much of the foot is exposed with this simple shoe, it makes your legs look extra long and redirects all the attention to your clothes. Invest in a neutral or metallic pair, like celeb-loved brand Larroudé’s silver Dolly sandal, that will go with almost anything in your closet.

Combat Boots

There’s a reason Dr. Martens have been a fashion staple for decades: Black combat boots will instantly add the missing piece to any look. They're casual enough to pair with your favorite jeans, yet versatile enough to toughen up a frilly dress. For a more understated option, check out this ultra-comfy André Assous pair.

Over-the-Knee Boots

Sure, knee-high boots have risen in popularity (again), but over-the-knee styles aren’t going anywhere. They’re just too convenient when it comes to all-weather fashion, since that longer length provides extra warmth and coverage on chillier days — especially if you're wearing a skirt or dress.

Strappy Sandals

Whether you prefer the affordable comfort of Teva’s best-sellers or a more traditionally stylish pair, strappy sandals take the spot as summer’s most popular shoe. Minimalistic designs will place the rest of your outfit in the spotlight, while something with criss-cross details can spice up a basic shorts-and-tank combo.

Ballet Flats

A great pair of ballet flats is dainty, comfortable, and simple enough to wear with almost anything, be it a formal date-night ensemble or a low-key, everyday look. Whether you opt for a bow-festooned style or Mary Jane version, you’re bound to keep coming back to them.

Cowboy Boots

Metallic or muted, knee-high or cropped — cowboy boots are the statement shoe that will breathe new life into your wardrobe, no matter the time of year. Style them with a tee and denim cutoffs for a casual, model-off-duty look, or wear them with a slip dress for the rugged-meets-refined effect.

ncG1vNJzZmivp6x7qrrSrbClnV6YvK57yJymp6GTYsCpu8SsZLCnoqm1brXNr5ysrJ2au7V5lGxsb3BjbA%3D%3D