Reader Question:
Hi!
I found your website this past January and have really enjoyed it! I only wish you would write more! But, being a mom of a 27-month-old girl and a 11-month-old boy, I can imagine why you don't.
I have a style question for you. I have been seeing nude pumps show up a lot on the red carpet, and on the feet of those who are more stylish than I. It seems like it would be really wearable (neutrals go with everything, right?) but I'm worried that perhaps I don't know the right way to rock them. Have any suggestions or advice on how to wear neutral pumps? Also, any ideas on where to get a good pair in time for wedding season?
Thanks,
-Rachel
Answer:
YES! Nude pumps are everywhere and we’re convinced this comely trend is here to stay for a while. We love nude pumps (and platforms and flats and sandals) because not only do they make your legs look miles long, they’re total mom-brainers (i.e., your exhausted, multitasking brain can rest assured, once you’ve selected the perfect pair, that they’ll compliment virtually anything you put on with them).
You’ll laugh that I’m sourcing this, but College Fashion made an excellent point in its Splurge vs. Save: Nude Heels post. Nude/neutral shoes are like make-up. Color and contrast is everything with a nude/neutral shoe, so you need to find the right shade for your skin tone. Just as you would for foundation, try several versions with an eye to the color and tone of the shoe in addition to its style.
Unlike choosing a good foundation make up, however, nude shoes need to contrast with your skin tone. Yes, the idea is for the shoe to virtually disappear, giving the impression that your legs are six inches longer than they actually are, but it’s a wittle bit creepy, as Huck would say, when there is no discernible line between shoe and foot. You want to look like you have Barbie legs, not deformed Barbie feet.
Most of what I’ve sourced is on the pricey side. I love to look at high end lines before I go shopping for more budget-conscious versions–these looks can easily be recreated with half the money or less.
Here are three ways to rock the nude footwear trend through wedding season.
Bright
I love the classic nude pump with a bright solid. The look is so effortless and refined. Don’t forget to consider snake and croc prints–these can be great nude/neutrals that add punch to a buttoned up and ladylike ensemble.
From left:
Tadashi Shoji Matte Jersey Dress ($278)
Kate Spade Gwen ($325)
Lumiani Denise in Cream ($87)
Stuart Weitzman Sashay ($298)
Pattern
With rich pattern, try a metallic as a nude/neutral. The muted gold metallics out there right now are a far cry from Boca. Or, if you simply find the prospect of trying several nude shoes on in store or have a difficult time finding a shade that suits your skin tone, consider a metallic shoe–they’re incredibly easy to work. For darker skin tones, step up the richness of your neutral tone. Note: the fabulous DVF platform also comes in a lighter camel color.
From left:
Glint Gillian Sandal ($90)
Moschino Strappy Sandal ($395)
Diane von Furstenburg Isis Platform Sandal ($285)
Milly WIld Paisley Print Silk Duipioni Shift ($315)
Tough
Nude doesn’t have to be all fleshy proneness–it can go tough, too. I heart the grommet detail on this tough little black dress by Nanette Lepore with nude stiletto peep-toe booties–I’m especially drooling over the Nine West Hamish, which is 30% off right now.
From left:
Nanette Lepore Wind Swept dress ($348)
Stuart Weitzman Hugs ($345)
Nine West Hamish in Off White ($99 – 30%)
Boutique 9 Disco ($144)
Well, what do you think? Are you ready to rock nude heels this wedding season?
– M
