In search of the perfect spring shoes

Illustration courtesy of Iain McIntosh

P: What exactly are the perfect spring shoes? I have tucked my winter boots at the back of my mud room hoping I will not need them again for a good eight months and it is far too early for sandals. So, what to wear right now?

Jennifer and I have been discussing this recently as the weather is finally warming. Moccasins can be cute especially Tod’s, but for me, Belgian Shoes are the answer. I live in them all year round and they are a godsend in these transition months. I consider them lady-like loafers and I wear them with both skirts and pants. My favorites are navy suede which I wear with jeans almost daily.

Cole Haan loafers?

J: Belgians are great, but a bit too preppy for me. But what other shoe works if it’s sunny or raining, 40 degrees or 65? I’ve been toying with the idea of classic loafers (still completely preppy, though remember Gwyneth Paltrow’s penny loafers in Royal Tennenbaums?–the ultimate in collegiate geek chic).

Maybe a men’s style brogue? There are always ballet flats, which I already have from Lanvin. But a little more support might be a good idea. Of course, I’ve already bought fun spring/summer shoes– pricey fun spring shoes. I never seem to buy the basic shoe– somehow I can’t commit the money.

Cole Haan brogues

Probably I need all three pairs, which would mean taking back a pair of fun shoes. What to do?!

Balenciaga ballet flats