Monday, November 7, 2011

Black pumps and goals for my wardrobe.

Although I don't follow astrology at all (fact: I actually typed 'astronomy' before I corrected myself - that's how much I don't follow it) there is one thing I believe: Libras are indecisive by nature. There have been so many times I've rolled into a department store, certain of what I want (classic black pumps, for example) and then proceeded to be just so totally overwhelmed by all the choices that I've ended up leaving without anything except a head full of seriously confused ideas (Do I want black leather pumps, really? Or do I want the comfier - and therefore more practical, right? - black leather wedges? Or what about boots? I need boots...and so on, and so on). It's a terribly disorganized and frenzied place, my mind.

But I was inspired by Elle of Fast Foot and Fast Fashion's recent post about "good" deals, as well as her "Sartorial Bucket List." What a fab idea! Although I keep an itemized spreadsheet of all the purchases I make throughout the month, which has helped to curb my spontaneous spending some, I still inevitably end up  dazed and confused whenever I go to most stores. No more!

I have a new goal, and that's to form a list of items that are absolutely necessary (e.g., the perfect trench coat, which I've been trying to hunt down for what seems like forever) and to only buy items from that list...well, with the odd exception here or there.

One of the items on said list is definitely a pair of black pumps - that is to say, affordable pumps, at a price tag of $150 or under. The ones I currently have are these Nine West Selene Pumps, purchased in the summer:
Pumps by Nine West at ShopStyle
But they're way too big, because I bought them when I was under the impression that I'm a size 6 (when I'm a size 5!). So, even though they're fairly comfortable for a pair of shoes that slips off with every step, new heels are necessary. I'm particularly in love with these Enzo Angiolini pumps below -- every time I've ever tried a pair on from this brand, I've always been so impressed with the quality. For the price point, I honestly don't think you can do better; they're incredibly comfortable, definitely cute, and so affordable. They even come in super tiny sizes!
Pumps by Enzo Angiolini at ShopStyle
They also come in a gorgeous blue color that I'm really itching to buy -- but of course, that isn't on the list!

This pair by Calvin Klein is also lovely; the snakeskin is more interesting than your average black pump, but it's still conservative enough for work. I find that CK shoes tend to be super comfy, and the slightly thicker heel would make these more practical for walking around all day!
Pumps by Calvin Klein at ShopStyle
Lastly, I'm considering these Ann Taylor Perfect Cutout Pumps below - the detailing is different from the usual, but again, still works for the office. I've heard that AT shoes are amazing quality, but these are just slightly out of my price range at $178. Hopefully I'll be able to snag them during one of AT's many, many sales at a more affordable price tag! Fingers crossed.
Shoes & Boots by Ann Taylor at ShopStyle
What about all of you? What's your favorite affordable/budget shoe line, or the one that you think tends to be the most comfortable and of the best quality? I'm on the hunt for the perfect black pump, so your suggestions are really welcome!