Sandals in the Fall and Boots in the Spring won't garner you the strange looks that you may think in 2022. Gone are the days of following the typical fashion rules. Because I mean-- Who made 'em up anyway? Trends today are ALL about breaking the rules and doing what best expresses YOU. It's about thinking outside the box and taking risks in the name of style & individuality. It's about what makes you stand out when you walk into the room. It's about what makes your closet dance and your feet smile.
But I get it...
Sometimes it's hard to break out of your comfort zone and get on board with certain trends, especially since a lot of fashion choices these days are dipped in nostalgia. We're literally seeing 70s-90s fashion packaged and wrapped in a 2000s bow, so switching things up almost seems pointless, because if we're honest, we've all have something in our closet we haven't worn in YEARS that we just KNOW is coming back in style. But though style is timeless, staying on trend keeps you from being... Well... BORING.
Oh-- And from standing out in the wrong way. Allow me to tell you a quick story:
I recently treated myself to dinner at this new, ambient steakhouse here in Dallas. I wore a black & white knit midi sweater dress, with a black blazer cuffed at the wrist, some classic black pumps and some simple accessories. I confidently walked out of the house, hopped on the interstate, allowed valet to park my car, and was able to take a few selfies right before being seated for my 7:00 reservation. I sat and watched as the patrons came in and out, some celebrating special occasions, others just enjoying the amazing cuisine. As I continued to observe, I noticed that all the ladies in the room had a commonality about their wardrobe. They weren't all wearing the same thing, but I noticed a fresh, comfortable, vintage feel to everyone's outfit. Vibrant colors, chunky boots, strappy heels, mom jeans, cut-out tops, and flattering prints and materials to accentuate their frames.
And suddenly, I felt like I was going to a job interview.
After being quarantined for two years, I painfully realized the buttoned up, conservative, "classic" look I gravitated to was a bit stuffy post-pandemic. I realized that my wardrobe was silently suffocating and desperately needed some fresh air. After finishing my steak and twice-baked bone marrow potato, and deleting those pictures of my tired outfit from my phone (never to be seen by Instagram), I headed home to resuscitate my wardrobe.
Because shoes make the difference, I always shop "feet up" (because there's nothing worse than buying a bomb outfit and not having any shoes to match). Instead of going to my typical filter of "Pumps" and "Heels", I decided to "Shop All" and these were my results:
Flatforms
Whet?! Yeah. This one kind of threw me too. But yes, flats and platforms had a baby and its name is Flatforms. This new trend of elevated flats are totally a thing and are actually pretty stylish once you get into them. It's the perfect way to stand tall and still have comfort and mobility. Not to mention you can go all day and not have to reach for your purse to grab your flats. You don't have to look far for a pair, because every brand from Walmart to Gucci are featuring them this season.
Seasonless Boots
Almost sounds like an oxymoron huh? You heard me right though-- Seasonless boots. Don't be too quick to box up your boots along with the rest of your winter items. Boots are now the go-to to pair with dresses, skirts, shorts, and all your other spring faves. Whether you go for a full-on, Dr. Marten combat boot or a peep-toe lace up bootie, boots are now 365. Get into it!
Strappy Sandals
Strappy high heel sandals are such a vibe. They're literally ideal for any look and come with a variety of heel types--From a solid chunky heel, to a stiletto, down to the kitten heels and gladiators. You seriously can't go wrong with either style. Pair 'em with jeans, a mini skirt, or even a maxi dress this season to diversify your look. And don't be afraid to try some odd colors. And oh-- The strappier, the better (Is strappier even a word?)
Mules
I'll be honest, I was VERY skeptic about mules making a comeback, and I didn't see them staying long at all. But here it is, 2022, and mules are still going strong. Whether tall or flat, a pair of mules are the perfect, convenient choice to just "slip on" for any outing. Mules, slip-ons, and any backless style may just be the gifts that keep on giving.
Platforms
Yeah, I was pretty shocked about these too. But your eyes aren't playing tricks-- Platforms are definitely BACK, and they're higher, chunkier and bolder than ever. These babies ripped through New York Fashion Week via every designer from Versace to Bottega Veneta. Platforms are in full force, and I'm here for it!
Color
Color? In Spring? Groundbreaking. I know, I know. This isn't anything new, especially since Spring is known for sending the brown tones and deep colors packing. But when I say color, I mean COLOR honey-- Turquoise, Yellow, Hot Pink, Orange, Lavender, Kelly Green. The rainbow is endless this Spring. Liven up your shoe collection with a pop of color; Your feet will thank you for it.
So don't be like me and catch yourself standing out in the wrong way. Fling that closet open and let some air in. Find a few new trends to mix into your typical look and watch the likes on your Instagram flood in.
And you don't have to thank me-- Just buy 'em here from SB!