8 "Boring" Shoe Styles You Should Always Have on Hand

In most cases, the word "boring" has negative connotations. But when it comes to "boring" shoes, we beg to differ. Think about it: You probably wear your so-called "boring" shoes much more often than your fun, trend-driven, statement-making pairs because they're significantly more versatile. Those plain white sneakers in your closet? You probably wore them this past weekend. And those black pumps you might even be wearing right now? Think of how many times you've worn them to work. While it's great to balance your shoe collection out with pairs that are fun and festive each season, the ultimate shoe capsule wardrobe that everyone should build consists of eight styles that are considerably more simple and timeless. These "boring" shoe styles are neutral enough to pair with a variety of outfits season after season. There are options for the office, travel, the weekends, and everything in between.
So read on to find out exactly what they are and to shop our picks for each style.
Neutral Pumps
The most classic of heel styles is one that effortlessly adds polish to any outfit that they're paired with. A flattering pair of pumps in a neutral color is a wardrobe workhorse you'll never regret investing in.
Minimal Strappy Sandals
There's a reason the most popular shoes among celebrities are Stuart Weitzman's Nudist heels: They don't distract from any outfit they're worn with and they never go out of style.
Block-Heel Ankle Boots
This ultra-walkable boot style is probably already in your closet. Keep it that way.
Birkenstocks
The original "ugly" sandals are no longer considered crunchy. These days, they're a summertime basic that's perfect for warm off-duty days.
White Sneakers
White sneakers started as a trend and quickly turned into a classic. While other sneaker styles come and go, these have stood the test of time. (Plus, nothing makes a pretty dress look cooler.)
Pointed-Toe Mules
Pointed-toe mules are one of those shoe styles that make you look like you know what you're doing. Whether it's a kitten-heel, block-heel, or flat version, they're sure to make your jeans (and everything else) look forward.
Loafers
When you really want to wear sneakers but the circumstances require something with a little more polish, it pays to have a pair of loafers on hand. You can probably even get away with wearing them to work.
Simple Slides
When you want the ease of flip-flops but seek a chicer look, slides are your summertime savior. Stock up on simple versions that can be worn with your entire summer wardrobe.
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Allyson is a senior editor for Who What Wear. She joined the company in 2014 as co-founder Katherine Power's executive assistant and over the years has written hundreds of stories for Who What Wear. Prior to her career in fashion, Allyson worked in the entertainment industry at companies such as Sony Pictures Television. Allyson is now based in Raleigh, North Carolina, and is originally from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. She holds a BFA in theater arts. Her path to fashion may not have been linear, but based on the number of fashion magazines she collected as a child and young adult, it was meant to be.
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