Splurge vs. Save: 6 Summer Shoe Trends You Can Get at Any Budget
What percentage of your shopping budget goes to shoes? If you can only answer with a vague "a lot," you've come to the right place. Investing in new shoes is always gratifying, as they have the power to update wardrobe basics like jeans and tees instantly. But just because you can't resist a good shoe trend doesn't mean you have to spend a fortune. While some shoe trends are basically eternal, other trends are a bit more of-the-moment, which calls for the need for more affordable options.
Below, I've rounded up the best summer shoes on the market right now, whether you're willing to make a thoughtful investment or just want to try out a trend without a major financial commitment. You know those kitten heels everyone on Instagram seems to be wearing? Yep, there's a chic pair for just $49 that's calling your name. On the other end of the spectrum, Tabitha Simmons and By Far are making the case for splurge-worthy styles. Scroll for the most stylish shoe trends you can get at any budget, from $35 to $700.
Kitten Heels
Kitten heels are extremely versatile for summer, as they're dressy enough for a wedding but practical enough for the weekend.
Splurge
Save
Save
Geometric Heels
This artsy trend is certainly pretty to look at on a shelf, but rest assured, they're more versatile and easy to wear than you might think.
Splurge
Splurge
Save
Wedges
If you cringe at the thought of wearing wedges, brands like Staud, Mango, Urban Outfitters, and MR by Man Repeller are all here to change your mind.
Splurge
Save
Save
Printed Slides
Whether you want to spend $35 or are ready to make a designer investment, printed flat slides should definitely be on your wish list for summer.
Splurge
Splurge
Save
Toe Ring Sandals
From The Row to Aldo, brands are hopping aboard the toe-ring bandwagon, and we're more than happy to oblige.
Splurge
Save
Save
Save
Block-Heel Slides
The block-heel trend shows no signs of slowing down—and that's a good thing. Extremely easy to walk in and a welcome change from pin-thin stilettos, block-heel sandals are certainly worth an investment right now.
Splurge
Splurge
Save
Next, 9 ways Jennifer Lopez has styled the same shoe trend for 18 years.
Erin got her start as a Who What Wear intern over 12 years ago—back when the site only published a single story per day. (Who What Wear has since increased that number twentyfold.) She graduated magna cum laude from USC, which is how she ended up moving to Los Angeles from her hometown of San Diego. In college, she also interned at Refinery29, where she was promoted to editorial assistant and then assistant editor. After nearly three years at R29, she came back to WWW in 2016, where she currently holds the title of senior news editor (as well as the unofficial title of resident royal expert—in case you haven't noticed her numerous Meghan Markle and Kate Middleton stories). She spends her days trying to incorporate her idols, Anna Wintour and Roger Federer, into as many stories as possible. Outside of work, she loves tennis, classic rock, traveling, and smothering her dog with affection.
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