I have been told, “I am not like you. I am not a woman who has a ‘shoe thang’ (and definitely not as intense as your shoe adoration). I don’t need a closet full of shoes. I have a few pairs and that is all I need.”
Others have said, “I love shoes. I have many pairs of high heels, but no dress flats” or “I have many pairs of tennis shoes, yet no high heels.”
The issue for both groups of women is having the essential shoes. If you look in your closet and there are twenty pairs of sneakers, two pairs of flats and no other dress shoe, ask yourself if you are prepared for those last-minute events that can happen in life. If you only own a pair of black loafers, a pair of brown flats, and a pair of sneakers, I can say with confidence and without hesitation that you are not prepared for those unexpected events that seem to pop up in a busy woman’s life. A business dinner with a client who just happened to be in town and needs your advice now, a night out with the girls to help lift a friend’s spirits, or an invite out from a guy you had no idea even knew you existed. Those are just a few events that can creep up on you when you least expect them. Then there are all the many events we get invited to with advance notice. It is better to be prepared for all these events before they happen instead of having to spend the money and time trying to purchase appropriate shoes for them the day before, or worse, the day of.
Whether you are a shoe lover or not, there are ten essential shoes that every woman must keep in her closet.

10. Slippers: After a long day of being on your feet, running errands, and playing superwoman, there is nothing like slipping a pair of cushiony comfortable pillows on tired, achy feet.

9. Trainers: Ladies, maintaining your health is a priority. Losing excess weight is not only good for your heart, it will also help you be more comfortable when wearing high heels. One simple way to get healthy is to take a walk.

8. Winter Boots: For those of us who live in areas where snow falls every winter, these are very necessary to have in your closet. Nothing is worse than cold wet feet on a cold wet day.

7. Dress Boots: These boots are dressy enough for work or an evening out with friends, yet practical enough for the cool weather.

6. Flip-flops: Not just for the beach. However, they are also not for an evening out at a restaurant or a night dancing in a club (I have seen this; *shaking my head).

5. Sandals: For those hot summer days and to show off that new pedicure.

4. Flats: Perfect for some shopping at the mall, lunch with your girlfriends, and an afternoon movie with your boyfriend.

3. Kitten Heels: For those days when you just do not want to wear a high heel yet you want to still look nice. This style is very classy and timeless.

2. Pumps: A classic pair of black pumps is essential, especially for a woman who does not have a large selection of heels. They are good for all seasons and go with many outfits from a skirt to a pair of jeans.

1. Stilettos: This is a pair heels at least four inches or higher. Ladies, these heels have many purposes. Let me give you the top three:
a. For the single woman: Have every head in the place turn to watch as you strut across the floor. These shoes will make your hips sway in a seductive manner and give your legs that long, shapely, and sexy look. Stilettos will give you an ego boost. In stilettos you will know you are sexy, strong, and empowered. They also give off the warning “All losers please do not approach.”
b. For the woman in a relationship: Spice up the bedroom with a pair of stilettos and some lingerie. Your mate will be thinking about you in those heels for the rest of the week and be willing to do anything to get you to put them back on your feet.
c. Stilettos are also known as the freak-’em heels. They go well with the freak-’em dress. When your man is getting on your last strong nerve, when the divorce has been finalized, or when you have finally accepted that the relationship is over, get your girls together, put on your freak-’em outfit, and enjoy yourself. His lost girlfriend, you are wonderful.
Those are my general choices for the essential shoes every woman should have in her closet. If you own only one pair of each shoe listed, you should be well prepared for any occasion to which a busy woman may find herself invited. Of course, depending on your region, your need for some shoes on this list may differ; for example, a snow boot may not be necessary if you live in Miami. Adjust this list according to your area.
Also, if your budget will allow, do not limit yourself to only one pair of each shoe. While the basic black pump is acceptable and can be worn with most outfits, why not purchase a pair of metallic pumps to liven up that little black dress or pant suit? Another type of heels to own is a pair that will make you stand out from the crowd. “Make-a-statement heels,” as I call them. Maybe a bright and fun pair. Or a pair that is different because of the detailing or heel design. This type of heel is perfect for wearing on those days you need a boost to your self-esteem. The stares and comments you receive will have you smiling from ear to ear and feeling great.
What are your essential must have shoes in your closet?









I love your list! it’s very thorough. I think I have every one of them as well. I wish I had more room in my closet, because I really don’t think a girl can have too many shoes.
Oh wait, I don’t have the 4″ stilettos. Next time I go shoe shopping I’ll try some on just for you! Well, I do have some but they’re only 3″. Does that count?
Heather Fonseca recently posted..Ravishing Red
I wrote four inches just for those who are a little shy of the higher heel. When you go shopping and try the 5-inch heel on make sure to take plenty of pictures (Did you notice the 5?) haha
Love the boots you listed. Something, sort of a middle ground between your two picks, I am in love with is the Madden Girl Zoiiee boots.
Moral of the story? There is always room for more shoes! =)
Rachel Halstead recently posted..Madden Girl Zoiiee | Black, Brown or Tan
Great list! A little info for everyone. ;0)
Tamika D. recently posted..Rocky Horror Masquerade Ball