As I help clients put together holiday outfits this season, I’m reminded that pointy toe pumps and dressy slipper flats can instantly refresh the party dresses and separates already in your wardrobe. Black party wear looks especially fab with dressy metallic footwear, colourful footwear, or black footwear that is colour blocked with another colour.
Party shoes needn’t be super comfortable because you’re probably seated for most of the time that you’re wearing them. Hence my expression “sitting shoes”. So you might be able to wear a higher heel or a less cushioning and supportive shoe in this case. Adding a cushioning insole is an option for styles that are not cut away in the middle of the foot.
Here’s a selection of closed toe and heel party footwear, most of which I have seen on clients or tried myself. Comfort levels, colours, heel heights, and price points vary across the styles.
- Boutique 9 Mirabelle Pumps: I almost bought these because they look extra sleek and minimal. (Remember how incredible this style of shoe looks in this trouser outfit). They elongate the leg line, and are a perfect shade of champagne. The leather is hard to start off with, but might soften after wearing. Will not work for a wider foot. Might need to size up half a size.
- Calvin Klein Baisha Strappy Pumps: I found these much more comfortable than the Boutique 9 Mirabelles because the leather is soft and the toe box roomy. I love the dainty ankle straps, textured leather, and light weight integrity of the shoe. I bought these in gold as my new party shoe. I’ll wear them with black micro fishnets or nude knee-highs in Winter. Great price point.
- J.Renee Aziza Strappy Pumps: These are fairly comfortable, and the tortoise shell option is unique. The ankle straps are a little short so consider yourself warned.
- J.Renee Staci T-Strap Pumps: A little retro and very pretty. Read the rave reviews.
- J. Renee Tomlin Flats: Studded heels are a subtle way to wear foot bling. Low heeled, snip toed, and works for a wider foot. Goes up to a size 13.
- Kenneth Cole New York Mirror Me: A lower heel with a cushioning footbed. Pretty comfy and basic. Will not work for a wider foot. The silver option looked better to my eye because the gold version is overly brown.
- B Brian Atwood Macias: Stunningly elegant on the foot. Runs small and narrow so size up half a size. Also available in shocking pink.
- Tory Burch Carissa Bow Smoking Slippers: Textured black, bling bow, and pretty comfortable. Better with the addition of an extra insole.
- RED Valentino Flat Loafers: More textured black in a romantic floral. Add an insole.
- Coach Camille Pump: A d’Orsay style in ruby red. Also available in black and taupe. Read the rave reviews.
- Vince Camuto Ecie Flat: Almost as comfy as a real slipper. Cushioning and adorable in all colour options.
- Joan & David Mitzie Flat: Sleek, fashionable, comfy and on sale. Gorgeous gold heel.
- Matiko Dot Flat: A little more casual than the Mitzie, not quite as comfy, but the black and gold option is very fun.
- Vince Claire Pump: On trend, soft leather, comfy and elegant. The high vamp of this d’Orsay style adds a little edge.
- Vince Aurelian Pump: Here’s the low-heeled version of the Claire.
- Kate Spade Adie Pump: The leather is hard and will not stretch. Gel inserts help create a more comfortable fit as does wearing hosiery. Eye-catching and modern classic. All three colour options are gorgeous and on sale.
- Nina Lars Bootie: A refined and sparkly bootie that’s great for evening wear. The fabric upper is pretty hard so it’s not a comfy option. But fine for those with less fussy feet.
- Nina Originals Pledge Slipper Flat: Soft, comfy and cute. Fun colours and one option for Team Flats.
- Steven Thriisha Bootie: A cut-out bootie for Team Extra High Heels.
- Jimmy Choo Bow Pump: Ladylike and especially sublime in the blue. Modern classic, high longevity factor, and runs small.
Extra Tips:
- Add hosiery to party shoes for warmth. Think sheer black or dark grey hose, black textured hose, black micro fishnets or nude hose when wearing a dress or skirts. Think sheer knee-highs in black or nude with trousers and jeans.
- Stretch shoes with wet feet if they’re a tad snug all round.
- Complement party shoes with a clutch.
- Swap out weatherproof footwear for party shoes when you’re back indoors after a challenging commute.
- Wear party shoes with jeans as well as dressy attire.
I’ve focused on pointy toe footwear because the silhouette is especially on trend at the moment. Fresh and fashionable. But if round toed dressy shoes are more your thing, by all means wear those instead. Round toes tend to be more comfortable and are not dated.
