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You can never have too many pairs of shoes! From simple flats to the most attention-seeking high heels, there's a pair for every outfit. Some of your faves might be a combo of two types; stiletto boots, anyone? Check your closet to see if you could use a few more options in any of these classic styles. Hey, if the shoe fits, collect it.
Flats
Oh, the mighty flat! You're a graceful ballerina leaving rehearsal. You're running to the store for dinner. Whatever the occasion, simple shoes with a closed toe and a flat sole go the distance. They're easy to slip on. They're easy to take off. When they fit properly, they never hurt. You can't have too many of these.
Sandals
Sandals have either flat soles or high heels, but all of them are perfect opportunities to flash your pedicure. Open-toed shoes with strategic straps across the toes, over the top or dorsum of the foot, or at the ankle can be casual, sexy or both. Sandals are a summer staple.
Kitten Heels
Kitten heels have lift, but they stay demure. A short heel under 2-1/2 inches adds feminine allure without major strain on your knees or calves. Kitten heels can have open or closed toes or even mimic sandals with open quarters, the section that covers the back of your heel and Achilles' tendon.
Pumps
Pumps are the classic high heel. Called "court shoes" in the United Kingdom, these high heels are slightly conservative and work with formal outfits. Pumps have closed toes and closed quarters. They usually have heels higher than 2-1/2 and lower than 4 inches.
Stilettos
Stilettos are the bad girls of high heels. They're for naughty nights out and glitzy cocktail events. High heels that tower at 4 inches or higher might slow your stride, but the lengthening effect on your legs is unbeatable. You can find stiletto heels on boots, sandals or pumps.
Boots
Boots are some of the most versatile shoes out there. With full ankle support, a closed toe, a closed quarter and a leg that covers anywhere from the ankle up to the thigh, boots walk, strut, work, hike, party, dance and kick up on the lap of any number of admirers. Some have flat soles; others have soles made for specific activities.
Slingbacks
Slingbacks refer to the quarter or portion of a shoe that covers the back of the heel. Instead of a closed quarter, slingbacks have a strap that hooks over the back of the heel. This open-backed look is sexy without being too bold, although you can get super-vampy in slingback stilettos or other high heels. For a little more comfort, try slingback sandals.
Wedges
Wedges have a flat, wide heel with a broad base. The shape is visually enticing, but you forego any of the balance problems that might plague ladies in skinnier heels. Wedge shoes have open or closed toes, but they almost always have closed quarters. Slingback wedges are cute in summer, but this heel works on a pair of winter boots, too.
Sneakers
Sneakers aren't just for the gym. Traditionally reserved for athletic activities, sneakers have now entered the realm of the lifestyle shoe. Urban divas, mall-rats and women who won't let a little activity get in the way of feminine appeal look awesome in sneakers. Go classic with simple silhouettes or embellish yours with cool laces, prints or decals.
