I've Been a Nordstrom Fashion Director for 7 Years: 5 Shoes to Toss Right Now

As the resident shoe fanatic at Who What Wear, my love for footwear runs deep. So deep that my closets have had enough of me and I’ve resorted to stuffing strappy sandals in every nook and cranny that my apartment has. They are definitely cute, but they’re also not the easiest item to store, and there comes a time when saying goodbye to even your once favorite pairs become inevitable. While I prepare for a spring cleaning of my footwear collection, I knew I had to replace the pairs that I’m planning on donating and selling with something special.
Tapping expert Elizabeth Kanfer, who has been a Nordstrom Fashion Director in the shoe arena for many years, was obviously the next step that I needed to take in my shoe closet cleanout. She’s spent the last year analyzing data and exploring the entirety of the shoe market to find out what’s staying and going in our closets for this spring. I have to say that with my own knowledge I most certainly agree with her picks. Your shoe collection is guaranteed to have a good spring and summer if you let this story guide your shopping decisions. Below, find five shoes that are ready to be added to the donation pile and their updated replacements.
Buy: Sexy Sandals
Donate: High Vamp Flats
"The sexy sandal is back with more confidence than ever! From square to pointy, toe shapes are extreme, and statement strapping defines the season. Heels are dramatic and look best as a sleek wedge, high stiletto, or in an architectural metal. Bright, bold color brings these sandals to life and can be worn for a night out or for a social occasion.”—Elizabeth Kanfer
Shop:
Buy: Power Pumps
Donate: Cone Heels
"Strong toe shapes and interesting heels reinvent the wear-to-work shoe wardrobe. Return to work in full style with power pumps and sleek slingbacks.”—Kanfer
Shop:
Buy: Statement Platforms
Donate: Chunky Block Heels
"Make a statement while remaining comfortable in one of the seasons newest silhouettes. Chunky bottom platforms in mules and strappy sandals give you the height you need and work perfectly back to the many leg opening options in denim. In vibrant color or novelty print, platforms are sturdy, supportive and an absolute spring must have.”—Kanfer
Shop:
Buy: Artisanal Sandals
Donate: Sport Sandals
"As we look forward to dressing for warm weather, fisherman sandals are the new, cool summer sandal of choice. Authentic leathers are beautiful and have a hand-crafted feeling. Clogs are back and wooden bottom soles are becoming even more interesting. Crochet, macrame, and rope instantly elevate casual silhouettes from gladiators to flat summer sandals. Wear with soft shorts, printed summer dresses, or crochet cardigans for a chic yet relaxed attitude.”—Kanfer
Shop:
Buy: Maximalist Sneaker
Donate: Sneaker Boots
"It’s all about looking good at the gym while getting the most out of your training and trainers. This spring high-performance and protective materials re-vamp athletic sneakers. Mesh and material mixing are key and statement outsoles are dipped in fun colors providing extra grip for hiking and city streets.”—Kanfer
Shop:
Next: I Live In Heels But Refuse To Be Uncomfortable—Of 30 Pairs, 16 Passed My Test

Sierra Mayhew is a fashion editor at Who What Wear, bringing a decade of industry experience to the editorial team. Since joining in 2021, she has made her mark by blending luxury and accessible fashion, decoding runway trends, and curating must-have shopping lists. Before joining Who What Wear, Sierra sharpened her skills at Harper's Bazaar and Elle, with bylines in Bazaar.com and collaborated with iconic brands such as Gucci and Ferragamo. A graduate of the University of Notre Dame, Sierra translates editorial expertise into viral social content, making fashion engaging for a new generation. Her unique perspective is rooted in her love for travel, music, and discovering the hidden gems that make New York City a constant source of inspiration.
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