The Ultimate Shoe Capsule Wardrobe With 7 Must-Have Pairs

Create a shoe capsule wardrobe by investing in classic footwear styles that suit multiple occasions throughout the year, saving you time and money. 

What Is A Shoe Capsule Wardrobe?

If you are drowning in shoes but never have anything to wear, creating a capsule shoe wardrobe solves this dilemma. The concept is a curated collection of versatile and classic designs you can mix and match for any occasion.

Like a capsule wardrobe for your clothes, creating one for your shoes means you always have a pair that suits your personal style.

6 Points To Consider When Building A Shoe Capsule Wardrobe

Buy shoes in a timeless design to wear all year
Choose shoes in classic styles and neutral colours
Adopt a less is more approach 
Make international purchases
Prioritise high-quality materials 
Shop from sustainable brands or second-hand where you can

When finding the right pair of shoes for a capsule collection, always choose quality over quantity.

Fast fashion lets you buy shoes for rock-bottom prices, but many are made from cheap materials that quickly fall apart. This is not only a waste of money, but this throw-away culture means many items end up in landfills which hurts the environment.

If you are ready to declutter and simplify finding what to wear, then creating a shoe capsule wardrobe is a game changer. The Style Cadet has selected 7 Essential Pairs you need to get you started.

Let’s get into the best footwear for your shoe capsule wardrobe and why they deserve a spot in your shoe rack.

1. Loafers: Polished & Practical

Loafers are a shoe staple in a variety of styles and the go-to pair of work shoes for many of us. Chunky loafers are a popular design and celebrities, including Hailey Bieber, are often spotted sporting a pair. Opt for loafers in black or brown, as a neutral palette will work with more of your wardrobe.

For that ‘cool girl vibe’, style chunky loafers with a mini skirt, sheer black tights, white socks and a long trench coat. Loafers should be at the top of your list if you are looking for a practical pair of black shoes to dress up or down.

2. Stylish Flats: Chic & Comfy

Flats have come a long way and have become the shoe of choice for parties, events and weddings. Ballet flats are a popular style and Parisian staple that are effortlessly chic.

Channel the French style with jeans, a cashmere jumper and long wool coat in the colder weather, and denim shorts and a white shirt in the warmer summer months. If you are on your feet a lot but still want an elegant look, then styles such as leather pumps, mules and Mary Jane flats make great additions to your collection.

3. Black Leather Ankle Boots: A Timeless Classic

Black leather ankle boots are timeless staples for a shoe capsule wardrobe and perfect for everyday wear. If your workplace has a smart dress code, invest in a pair of ankle boots with tailored trousers for when you are in the office.

Try styling with straight-leg jeans, a white shirt and a trench coat for a more casual look. Opt for quality materials such as leather or a vegan leather pair of boots, and find a heel that works for you. 

4. Comfortable Heels: To Elevate An Outfit

A pair of elegant heels instantly pulls an outfit together and should be in every shoe capsule wardrobe. High heels are not for everybody, so if comfort and style are a priority, choose kitten heels or block heels as a stylish alternative.

A lower heel is ideal for the office and transitions easily for formal events and nights out; try a leopard print or metallic pair of heels for a statement shoe.

5.Knee-High Boots: An Every Season Essential

A pair of knee-high boots is an Autumn and Winter staple you can wear throughout the rest of the year.  Choose a pair in a neutral colour, such as black or burgundy and a heel height and style that works for you.

Wear a mini or maxi skirt and tank top in the warmer weather, and try a ribbed maxi dress, sheer black tights and a cosy coat for the colder months.

6. Sandals: Warm Weather Staple

A chic pair of flat sandals is essential for the warmer weather, and leather mules in black, tan or white offer style and versatility. 

For casual days, Arizona’s by Birkenstock is a well-loved pair of sandals to add to your shoe collection, and Teva Midform Universal sandals are a popular option.

7. Trainers: A Hard-Working Hero

Everyone’s shoe capsule wardrobe needs a pair of trainers, and for many, these casual shoes are our most treasured and worn pair.  You can’t go wrong with a white pair of trainers like New Balance 530s, or for a vintage vibe, try Adidas Sambas in a block colour such as green, black or red.

Anything goes when styling trainers, and not limited to sport and running errands, so feel free to wear yours with your fanciest threads.

7 Benefits Of A Shoe Capsule Wardrobe

1. Makes It Easier To Choose A Pair Of Shoes: A smaller collection of versatile footwear will also enable you to pull an outfit together in a flash.

2. Eliminates Clutter: A shoe capsule wardrobe gives you less choice and more space, making it less overwhelming when you are getting ready. 

3. Saves You Money: Buying less footwear made from higher quality materials will last longer, saving you money in the long run. 

4. Versatility: Each pair of shoes is carefully selected in a specific colour and style with the rest of your wardrobe in mind.

7. Promotes Sustainability: Overconsumption has a catastrophic impact on the planet, so be mindful and buy less.  

We all love a bargain, but constantly buying shoes in different styles to follow trends is not sustainable, so reduce your carbon footprint with more intentional purchases.

Focus on timeless styles of footwear and try to invest in high-quality and well-made shoes; your wallet will thank you.

Creating a shoe capsule wardrobe doesn’t require a lot of shoes and will banish any last-minute panic over what to wear. Start with these 7 Essential Pairs to always have the perfect footwear, whatever the season or occasion.