fancy flats to replace your pumps

One thing I've learned in the last few years is both how to be alone (embracing the time to do something I enjoy rather than holing up inside) and how to meet new people (not restricting myself to prescribed high school & college groups). This weekend was a really happy balance of both. I saw Trainwreck, capped an afternoon boating with a killer view of the Aquatennial fireworks from Lynlake Brewery's roof deck, and Sunday, savored the relaxing routine of an early(ish) morning run and walk to grab groceries & my favorite Agra Culture salad. Even though I'm still in a semi-transitional state since moving back to Minneapolis, I felt really content doing regular things around the city and happy that I'm here.

As I sipped a chocolate Crafted Press and loaded apples, broccoli—and yes, baked Cheetos—into my basket late Sunday morning, I realized that flats had been on my feet all weekend. And I couldn't actually recall the last time I'd left the house in heels.

I've relied on a little extra height for special occasions since college, and often a comfortable low wedge for every day, but more and more, elevated kicks feel like overkill. And frankly, impractical for the majority of my daily activities. But just because I'm—literally—lowering my effort level doesn't mean you're going to see me cruising around in Crocs. A sleek pointy toe is my M.O.

Click through below for a few pairs (loving the mules!!) that will look good with a dress at dinners and parties in lieu of stilettos (sorry loafers and oxfords), transition into fall, and—most importantly—offer options for summer's movie matinees, Lunds runs and nights sipping flights at all the breweries I've yet to try (looking at you, Bauhaus)!

spring shoe shopping

Last weekend I sipped a $12 Bud Light and swayed along to the twangy tunes of Eric Church at his Chicago concert. Some of his music is way too hoedown/honkey tonk for me, but some is so, SO good—and the "Springsteen" finale made the whole thing a hit. Mid-way through this week, I can't let it go and am still listening to a few favorites on my commute! I wore my trusty brown ankle boots to the show (the closest I come to cowboy boots), but am hoping it was one of the last times I need socks and so much coverage. As spring slowwwwwly starts to show its face, I'm slowly assembling new warm-weather footwear to replace my beat-up, salt-stained winter styles. First on the list are Steve Madden low wedges. I've worn my current pair ragged and am happy to replace it with a clean nude. A modest 2.5" heel makes this THE most versatile shoe in my closet—enough height for night, unassuming enough for day, and so comfortable! Because of how much I wear my Maddens, I want to invest in a similar style. The Seychelles have essentially the same look, with cool braided detail and a soft seafoam shade that adds interest without being too wild to work with most of my wardrobe. Because there are days I just want to be on solid ground, I need a pair of flats—the Olson's studs, T-strap and flashy color compensate for its vertical challenges. Mules are having a moment—enough said. A block heel keeps these daytime-appropriate and the colored woven upper is super summery and fun. Gold hardware and espadrille trim give a more refined feel to the sporty MK sneakers, which makes me comfortable wearing them even to work (unlike some of the super-athletic, bulkier New Balances and Nikes). Finally, this time of year is all about comfort, and black matte Birkenstocks offer that AND fashion cred. I can see myself wearing them everywhere from grocery runs to casual happy hours. What open-toe styles (and country songs!) are you busting out as temperatures rise?

SHOP THE EDIT

Steve Madden Wedges | Seychelles Wedges

Halogen Flats | J.Crew Mules

Michael Kors Sneakers | Birkenstock Sandals


Here's a little clip from the concert!