People in New York Are Wearing These Pretty Shoes With Jeans and Skirts
Despite New York's chilly temperatures, the city's trendsetting women are running errands, heading to the office, and going on first dates dressed in the head-turning looks they're known for. As a Brooklynite myself, perhaps the most important part of my outfit this time of year are the shoes I choose. When 90% of my ensemble is tucked away under a coat, whatever's on my feet holds a unique power to set the tone of my look. Whether I'm in jeans or a skirt, I rely on these five pretty shoe styles to help establish the vibe when I want to feel a bit more dressed up.
For dressy occasions, a pair of heels is the established choice, as women of New York continue to rely on them when they want to dress up. I've noticed—whether it was while having dinner at Lilia or enjoying a night out on the town—pointed pumps are the It silhouette. But for a more comfortable alternative, I've also seen plenty of women opt for slightly more walkable wedges, which offer stability on potentially icy sidewalks. I've also found that flat shoes can still add a dressy touch, with balletcore-adjacent Mary Janes, loafers, and shiny sneakers taking top spots on the streets of the Lower East Side and SoHo these days. Shop my favorite styles to embrace the trends below.
Sharp Heels
A pair of killer pumps will instantly dress up a skirt or a simple pair of jeans. While they're not exactly commuter friendly, for days when you're Ubering to the function, throw on a pair of pointy-toe pumps as the finishing piece of your outfit.
Dainty Mary Janes
A pair of Mary Jane flats manages to bridge the gap between shoes you can walk in and shoes that feel fancy. Invest in a pair of comfortable everyday flats that you can style with a light cotton dress during summer or jeans and a puffer jacket when the weather is cooler.
You can slide your feet into these Mary Janes, no buckling necessary.
Luxe Loafers
Think of a pair of loafers as outfit Switzerland. They're neutral. You can rely on them to balance out a more romantic look or add a preppy, tailored touch to relaxed jeans and a sporty jacket. You'll be equally likely to spot them in SoHo and the Upper West Side.
Wedges
Wedges offer a little bit of lift when you're not ready to teeter in heels. Whether you choose boots with a wedge heel or winterize sandals with a bold pair of socks, you can't go wrong with these shoes.
Statement Sneakers
Skip the all-white sneakers for an unexpected alternative: silver. While it's definitely eye-catching, a silver shoe can be a neutral when you're getting dressed. It can go with whatever color you may want to wear, and it's shininess adds a dressy touch to what's usually a casual footwear option.
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