By Rania Dawud 

Although it’s a stereotype that women love to wear and collect shoes, can you blame us if it were true? 

Certain shoe styles are a secret weapon for feeling confident, however, while stilettos are sexy, comfort is ultimately your best friend. 

The sheer variety of footwear is overwhelming and exciting, but to avoid hoarding shoes that you won’t always wear, try replacing them with these comfy alternatives. 

Sneakers

There are two categories for sneakers: running shoes and practical everyday sneakers. These can be interchangeable depending on your tastes. 

Running shoes are the most comfortable for exercise and a long day of running errands, while the practical everyday sneakers are appropriate for everyday wear. 

An all-white pair of sneakers is classic and can tone down a formal outfit into a more stylish and casual one.  

Boots

Considering the cold nights and wet days ahead of us, having warm footwear is a wardrobe essential. Boots that are both snug and water-resistant can be your saviour during the rainy winter days.

Sandals

Though the warmer season has come to an end, it’s good to have comfortable sandals to wear when it’s warm outside. Something open-toed and in a neutral colour that works with most things in your closet goes a long way. 

Heels

Those are a given. Many formal occasions call for high heels to be worn, and sometimes they are just fun to wear because they are classy, fashionable and chic. There are several types of heels to consider: pumps, strappy sandals, statement heels, stilettos, kitten heels, and the list goes on. 

However, the most important type of heeled shoes to own is the simple black pumps because they’re practical and go with almost any outfit. They go with nearly anything for any formal occasion. 

Another type to consider is a shorter, thicker heel, also known as a kitten heel. These work for those days when you need to wear heels but also need to move around a lot and can’t afford to be held back by an impractical pair of shoes! 

Ballet flats

Feminine and classic, a comfy pair of ballerinas can elevate any simple outfit into a more elegant one. Whether it’s worn with jeans or office pants, they add a refined quality that will make you look more put together, regardless of the occasion. 

Mules

I know! But hear me out: like ballerinas, they add a stylish element to an outfit, are practical and are appropriate for a work environment. Plus, they can be worn in autumn with a pair of sheer socks or tights and still look chic. 

Miscellaneous 

Hey, you’ve earned it! For this category, you can pick any pair of shoes that tickle your fancy or a pair of shoes that you really want but don’t necessarily have an occasion for. Whether they are bright and crazy heels, a chunky pair of boots or complicated, strappy sandals that won’t always be your best friend but are incredibly fun to have, it’s up to you!