A 1,000 pair of shoes

For those who know me, I am a sucker for shoes—not just any pair, but unique designs, colors, and styles. To date, in my adult life, I have purchased more than 500 pairs of shoes and currently own just over 250 pairs, I think—forgive me, I lose count! 😁

The funny thing is, I can't walk into any shoe shop and just buy shoes. I have to fall in love with a pair first, so it takes me weeks, months, and sometimes years of visualizing. There are the odd pairs that I've bought on a whim, but that's once in a while.

The odd pair

Unlike me, most people buy shoes for specific reasons, be it an event, occasion, or activity. Whatever the reason, here are some pointers on how to buy the best pair for yourself:

Shopping time - now this may seem like a whimsical pointer, but it's highly relevant. The best time to buy shoes is during the afternoon as your foot expands with use as the day progresses. An afternoon purchase ensures you are finding the right fit for your feet (while they are at their widest).

Fit - When buying closed shoes, wear the same type of socks you plan to wear with the shoes. This ensures a perfect fit.

Move Around - stand up and walk around in the shoes before you purchase them, this allows you to test the width, height and overall comfort before making a purchase.

Occasion - Be sure to source your shoes to suite the specific occasion you are buying the shoes for.

Exotica - Yves Saint Laurent

Have the outfit you will wear in mind, and for those very special occasions, I advise you to wear the exact outfit you will be wearing to ensure lengths and colours work well together. This is specially the case when purchasing exotic shoes.

Re-use - Unless you are Kim K, best purchase shoes that you can wear for a foreseeable future. This is especially if you are going to invest a substantive amount on the straps.

Work with basic colours such as black, brown and navy and try and keep the patterns minimalist to allow an easy blend. Colors such as white may seem like a good idea, but from personal experience, a white shoe can be the most difficult to dress.

Key colors such as black and brown are easy to work into any outfit

Storage - Be sure to keep your shoes in an open space to allow aeration. If you have enough space, keep shoes in their shoe box. This ensures they maintain their original shape and also helps in avoiding scuffing and damage.

I know this means huddling those shoe boxes along after you shop - but it will be worth it. I was never a fan of carrying shoe boxes especially when I purchase shoes along my travels and have to worry about luggage space - but after realising the importance of storing my shoes well, I accommodate those boxes, even if it means buying an extra bag!! 🤗

Have Fun - My last point is enjoy the shopping experience.. shoe shopping for me is therapy and be it online or in an actual store, I give it my all.

Emancipate your wardrobe with a splash of color

Don't be afraid to splash some color into your wardrobe and explore different heel types, cap shapes and fabrics.

Hope you enjoyed your reading - I have a shopping cart to empty - will catch you on the next round...