Want to create a minimalist shoe capsule for 2025? Check out my guide on how to put together a shoe collection with options for every season and every occasion!
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How To Build a Minimalist Shoe Capsule Wardrobe
Capsule wardrobes aren’t limited to just clothing. You can also make a minimalist shoe capsule (or Jewelry capsule) by selecting versatile and quality pieces for different seasons and events. And if you want to create a capsule shoe collection, my guide is here to help you.
Below are my top picks for any shoe you could need throughout the year. I’ve added a save, mid-range, and splurge option for each category, so no matter what your budget, you can put together the shoe capsule of your dreams!
Here’s what I suggest to include in the perfect minimalist shoe capsule that will work all year round:
Casual Slides
Casual slides are perfect for laid-back looks while grabbing coffee or running errands on a warm spring or summer day. Here are my top choices for a year-round shoe capsule wardrobe that will fit any budget. I’ve also linked additional options in the slider above!
$ Save: Lululemon Restfeel Slide
These Lululemon slides are perfect for that effortlessly stylish look. I purchased them for a recent trip and love how soft and ultra-comfy they are for daily wear or at the pool.
$$ Mid-Range: Birkenstock Arizona Big Buckle Slide Sandal
The Birkenstock slide sandal is an easy go-to for casual outfits and always has a cool vibe. There’s a reason they’ve been around and on-trend for ages. These sandals have excellent support and with the big buckle, will turn heads everywhere you go.
$$$ Splurge: Everlane ReKnit Form Crossover Sandal
This pricier sandal blends modern design with sustainable materials. Those who own them appreciate that they’re comfortable, durable, and breathable enough to last all summer long!
Flat Sandals
Flat sandals are the perfect warm-weather wardrobe staple. I wear them starting in late spring all the way to early fall. They can go from the beach to a dinner date to a weekend getaway!
$ Save: Steve Madden Hadyn Leather Sandal
I absolutely love these Hadyn leather sandals and have had them for years. They are sleek and budget-friendly with a comfy finish, making them a must-have for casual outings.
$$ Mid-Range: Everlane The Day Crossover Sandal
With elegant crossover straps and durable construction, these sandals are perfect for days when you need comfort and class. They are classic and comfortable, and as a bonus – don’t lose their shape.
$$$ Splurge: Gucci Interlocking G Slide Sandal
If you have the budget, I highly recommend a pair of designer slides. These luxurious Gucci sandals are timeless with quality craftsmanship and can easily go from day to night.
Heeled Sandals
In the spring, summer, or early fall it’s likely you’ll have to attend a wedding, baby shower, or some other dressier occasion, and heeled sandals are perfect for elevating your style. This capsule shoe works for warm weather and as a transitional piece between seasons.
$ Save: Quince Italian Leather 70mm Strappy Heel
Crafted with soft Italian leather, these luxe-for-less sandals blend comfort and durability. I’d reach for these sandals for both casual (date night) and formal occasions.
$$ Mid-Range: Schutz Helene Sandal Heels
If you have a little more to spend, the Helene sandal heels combine modern flair with classic design, making them a must-have for a fashion-forward capsule.
$$$ Splurge: Aeyde Mikita Leather Sandals
With a sophisticated and luxurious design, these luxurious shoes will definitely elevate your look. Choose between cream or black leather for endless outfit options.
Casual Sneakers
Looking for versatile and stylish sneakers? Check out my picks below that work for anything from a lunch date to a walk in the park all year round (unless it’s snowing!).
$ Save: Quince 100% Leather Everyday Sneaker
Quince is a master at combining timeless style with affordability. The sleek and simple ivory design means you can pair them with anything from leggings to a skirt to jeans.
$$ Mid-Range: Adidas Samba OG Shoes
Adidas OG Sambas have been one of my favorite purchases, both the neutral and colorful versions. They’re comfortable and add effortless style to my looks. Be careful with sizing on these as many are unisex, so you may take a different size than your regular (for example I typically wear a 7.5 or 8, and usually take a 6.5 in Adidas Sambas if they are unisex).
$$$ Splurge: Dries Van Noten Leather Sneakers
These sneakers take casual to another level with gorgeous details and quality materials. If it’s within your budget, these shoes will make an excellent addition to a modern, sophisticated wardrobe.
Athletic Sneakers
If you’re looking for athletic sneakers to wear throughout the year, the options below will take you from the gym to the streets easily.
$ Save: New Balance 574 Sneaker
New Balance 574 sneakers are trendy but have a timeless appeal and are still affordable. I love that they literally “go with everything.” If these are your pick too, don’t miss my article with 19+ New Balance Outfit Ideas You’ll Love!
$$ Mid-Range: New Balance 530 Classic Lace-up Sneakers
The New Balance 530 is my fave capsule pick. I love to wear these with jeans or leggings. The trendy chunky heels are cool, while the off-white hue gives an elevated vibe. With these I also sized down and took a size 6 as these are unisex and fit on the larger side.
$$$ Splurge: Loewe Flow Runner Suede Sneakers
The Loewe sneakers have a bold look and vibrant colors yet are so versatile. Made in Italy with high-quality leather, this investment piece is made to last.
Loafers
Whether you’re crunching autumn leaves or enjoying summer sun, loafers are a stylish choice that can be worn in every season (unless you live where there is a lot of snow). We recently published this article on how to style loafers in the cooler months, and this one for all kinds of weather.
$ Save: Sam Edelman Loraine Bit Loafers
At almost 5 stars with over 1k reviews, this well-loved staple is sleek and simple with a gold horsebit for a refined look. And it’s easy on the wallet!
$$ Mid-Range: Poppy Barley The Milan Loafer
These are a new addition to my wardrobe and I’m smitten. I love the ultra-soft suede, the all-day comfort (thanks to memory foam insoles), and the chunky heel.
$$$ Splurge: Gucci Horsebit Loafer
I’ve had these loafers for a few years now, and while they were an investment, this loafer is known for its iconic design and superior quality. I also love that you can wear these loafers with the heel down, like a mule, providing even more versatility.
Flats (Mary-Jane/Ballet/Mules)
In my opinion, flats are the perfect choice during warmer seasons and early fall. They offer both comfort and fashionable flair, especially modern designs like square-toe or woven flats.
$ Save: Quince Italian Leather Handwoven Ballet Flat
My budget pick for this capsule is from Quince. This stunning Italian leather flat is elegant, affordable, and practical. Not to mention, the woven details are perfect for adding subtle interest.
$$ Mid-Range: Poppy Barley The Studio Mary Jane
If you want a feminine and sophisticated shoe that fits like a glove and goes with everything, opt for The Studio Mary Jane from Poppy Barley (I’ve also linked other affordable alternatives above). This flat is one of my faves, aside from my Chanel ballerinas – and they fit just as comfortably!
$$$ Splurge: The Row Black Ava Ballerina Flats
Made in Italy with leather and Nappa goatskin, this ballerina flat screams effortless style. This splurge option is durable and timeless enough to be worth it, in my opinion.
Clogs
I know clogs can be controversial in the fashion world, so if you despise them… just scroll past this section! In my opinion, clogs are the ultimate comfort shoe, and work in any season, if styled correctly. You can pair them with cozy socks for fall and winter or go barefoot in spring and summer.
$ Save: Quince Suede Clog Mule
Available in neutral-toned, water repellent suede, buyers agree these are an incredibly quality for the price. Wear them while lounging, traveling, or on coffee dates.
$$ Mid-Range: Birkenstock Boston Soft Footbed Clog
Birkenstock is known for comfortable and supportive shoes, and these clogs are no exception. Plus, they’re unique and timeless.
$$$ Splurge: Flattered Cara Suede Sand Clog
With a similar look to the Birkens, this shoe is made with cork and quality suede. While they cost more upfront, these clogs from Flattered are durable and long-lasting.
Chelsea Boots
Chelsea boots work for colder seasons, transitional weather, and rainy days (if you have a waterproof set.) I love to pair mine with jeans, knit dresses, leggings, anything in between. (See several ways I style them here)
$ Save: Sam Edelman Laguna Lug Sole Chelsea Boot
My save pick for a tight budget are these waterproof Chelsea boots with a chunky sole and classic side paneling. They also have 1k+ ratings and reviews from happy customers so are worth the hype!
$$ Mid-Range: Poppy Barley The Decade Chelsea Boot
My favorite choice (which I own in both black and brown) are these premium leather, sleek, and water-resistant boots from Poppy Barley. I love how easily this shoe goes from work to the weekend. And, living in a cold Northern climate, I get a ton of wear out of them and let me tell you, they are durable!
$$$ Splurge: Loewe Campo Leather Boots
If you have the budget, splurge on these Italian leather shoes which have the classic Chelsea boot design in a rich, warm brown. With incredible craftsmanship and an eye-catching look, I guarantee these shoes will be a favorite in your elevated shoe capsule.
Heeled Boots
Heeled boots have more of a dressy look, making them perfect for elevating an outfit in early spring, fall, or winter. I love to wear mine on date night, out with friends, or during the day when I want to look a little more luxe.
$ Save: Steve Madden Delvie Kitten Heel Ankle Boot
This budget-friendly heel has both classic neutrals and bold designs. Reviewers confess these are their most comfortable and most complemented boots.
$$ Mid-Range: Poppy Barley The Toujours Boot
I, along with most other buyers, agree that these luxurious leather boots fit, feel, and look excellent with just about anything! They boots are thoughtfully designed with smooth leather, cushioned insoles, and added grip. I love them in the black and just recently added the suede brown colorway to my wardrobe!
$$$ Splurge: Toteme Mid Heel Ankle Boot
I love that these designer boots have a gorgeous leather front and flexible backside, ensuring they fit like a glove and look stunning. If the budget allows, adding these Toteme boots to your shoe capsule is a no-brainer.
Tall Boots
Tall boots are the ultimate fashion staple for winter and fall, elevating outfits for both casual and formal events. If you tend to have more dressy events in your calendar, opt for heeled boots. But if you live a more casual lifestyle, opt for flat riding-style boots instead.
$ Save: Life Stride Gracie Knee High Boot
According to buyers, these affordable gorgeous suede knee-high boots are actually comfortable enough to wear all day and definitely versatile.
$$ Mid-Range: Sam Edelman Sylvia Knee High Boot
I love that this option has a wide color selection providing lots of options for your personal style. With tons of positive reviews, they’re clearly well-loved; classic and comfy enough to wear for several hours.
$$$ Splurge: Poppy Barley The Toujours Tall Boot
With a special place in my closet, these stunning Poppy Barley boots are clean and minimal. Even with the heel they are great for all-day wear and can be paired with denim, silk skirts, and more.
When creating a capsule wardrobe, thoughtful, quality pieces are the key to looking stylish and put-together without a hectic morning. And no matter your lifestyle, a minimalist shoe capsule can definitely work for you!
If you loved this article, don’t miss How To Build A Minimalist Jewelry Capsule Collection!
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I”m so glad I found your page and I was so ready for smaller wardrobe to make sense and helpful smart information, thanks so much!!
I’m so glad this was helpful for you!