When it comes to buying shoes, the options are endless. Flats, heels, wedges, open toes, and loafers; the list goes on and, although we all love to shop for shoes, it’s sometimes hard to know where to begin.
If you’re looking for the perfect pair of shoes, here are few things that will help you succeed on your voyage of discovery.
Budget
It’s the least exciting aspect of looking for a pair of new shoes, but it certainly deserves a mention. It’s important, before you begin, to set yourself a budget. Failure to do so could see your next shopping trip get out of hand.
A great pair of shoes doesn’t often come cheap, unless you’re lucky. Whether you’re wearing them for a certain event, or you’re looking for a classic pair of everyday shoes, it’s imperative to invest in quality. Cheap shoes are uncomfortable and are unlikely to last more than a few months.
Finding a brand that you like, that is renowned for the quality of their shoes, is a great place to start. Gabor shoes, for example, offer you quality, value for money and a diverse range to choose from.
Find your why
Once you’ve set your budget, it’s time to start browsing. Before you can do that, however, you need to be clear about why you are purchasing a new pair of shoes.
The type of occasion on which you intend to wear your new shoes is essential to consider. A pair of shoes for a party may be strappy, high heeled and elegant, a pair of work shoes may just need to be comfortable, yet stylish, while a pair of summer shoes may need to be open toed.
What’s your why? It’s impossible to purchase a pair of new shoes that are suitable for all occasions, so it’s best not to try. Find your why and bear it in mind as you embark upon your search.
Comfort or style
Let’s not beat about the bush here, not all shoes are comfortable. There’s little point in pretending that this is the case. If you’re planning on attending a swanky party in a pair of stiletto heels, comfort is far from your primary concern. If you’re making a statement, make it a statement that everyone will remember, and don’t compromise on style.
If, however, you just need a pair of comfortable and casual shoes, don’t get too picky about the detailing. If elegance is not your concern, make sure comfort is.
Try them with your outfit
You may be able to visualise what your shoes will look like with your intended outfit to a degree, but there’s no substitute for trying the two together. Once you’ve selected your shoes, try them on with the outfit or outfits that you intend to wear them with.
Always keep the receipt. If you’re not sure, return your shoes and keep looking. Don’t settle on a new pair of shoes that you’re not completely happy with.
Get a second opinion
If you fall in love with a pair of shoes when you first see them, your judgement about whether or not they look good when you’re wearing them can be clouded. Play it safe and get a second opinion.
Invite your friends around for a glass of wine and try your new shoes on with a few different outfits. Ask them to be honest and gauge their reaction; if they’re not blown away by your statement shoes, then it’s time to return them.
