I'm a Shoe Expert—5 Classic Pairs That Belong in Every Capsule Wardrobe
When you read the words "capsule wardrobe", images of certain items will probably appear in your mind's eye. A crisp white shirt, perhaps, or a boxy black blazer. The cornerstones of a curated closet are mostly instinctive; think about those pieces you rely on day-to-day, then invest in high-quality iterations.
Shoes are another story, though. With so many tempting flats, boots and stilettos landing each season, this particular category can be difficult to streamline. The overwhelming choice means it's tricky to pinpoint the truly timeless styles. Are ballet flats a transient trend or a love-forever buy? Is it worth splurging on heels you'll only wear on the odd night out?
Well, Team Who What Wear has rallied together to identify five shoes that are worthy of every capsule wardrobe. From understated ankle boots to wear-with-everything trainers, we suggest you add the following pairs to your wish list ASAP.
1. Classic Loafers
Sleek black loafers will serve you year-round, working with everything from office attire to a simple jeans-and-jumper outfit.
Shop loafers:
These fuss-free loafers will go with all the outfits in your repertoire.
If you're wondering whether these are worth the investment, they've been around since the '50s and still show no signs of dating.
2. Black Ankle Boots
Come autumn, there's no finer shoe option than an ankle boot. Play it safe with a pair of flat Chelsea boots or elevate your ensemble (visually and literally) with a heeled silhouette.
Shop boots:
3. Smart Flats
2023 has been the year of flat, but this timeless shoe deserves a place in your long-term capsule wardrobe.
Shop flats:
Massimo Dutti has so many great flats to choose from.
These flexible ballet pumps come in seven colours (including a fun leopard print pair!).
4. White Trainers
Complete your downtime looks with some bright white sneakers. Fresh and modern, the right pair is the key to always looking cool.
Shop trainers:
If you prefer a luxe sneaker, consider this embellished pair.
5. Low Heels
Evening plans? Show up in elegant heels that don't demand you hand over your comfort in return for style.
Shop heels:
Inspired by an archival 1960s design, this high-shine pair is just as easy to incorporate into a modern wardrobe.
Speaking of—I've heard only good things about this high street pair.
Next Up: Every Fashion Person's Favourite Black Boots Are Finally Back in Stock
Bébhinn Campbell is an Edinburgh-based fashion and lifestyle writer. After receiving an Audrey Hepburn box set for her 10th birthday and subsequently swooning over the actor’s wardrobe, Bébhinn felt pretty confident she wanted a career that involved clothes. She started her first blog at age 14—the title was a pun, but we’ll leave it at that—and went on to intern at print and digital publications in Berlin and London, including Dazed & Confused and Indie magazine.
A job at a fashion startup took Bébhinn from Ireland to Scotland in 2019, where she now works as a freelance journalist and copywriter covering everything from travel and interiors to styling advice. As a contributor for Who What Wear, Bébhinn always keeps her eyes peeled for emerging trends and looks worth writing about. She prides herself on her ability to cut through the noise and identify solid investment buys, exciting new brands and updated takes on classic designs.
While she still loves Audrey Hepburn films, these days, Bébhinn’s sartorial taste sits closer to Annie Hall’s and Alexa Chung’s. In her spare time, she’s likely cooing over cute dogs on rescue websites, playing folk songs on her guitar and browsing bookshops for new additions to her already-overpacked shelves.
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