Spark

If you were to think about your shoe wardrobe like a math problem (stay with us here), the odds are good that you might need something along the lines of 50% work, 40% weekend, and 10% fancy – give or take a few points depending on your job and your volume of party invites! So with summer fast approaching, we visited our friends at Browns Shoes to put together a fashion-forward summer shoe wardrobe that solves your dressing needs, and equals some pretty cute looks. Each shoe pick transitions easily from one equation to another (work + weekend, work + fancy, etc.) to make getting ready a breeze.

The shoe: the pastel patent loafer 
Wear it for work + weekend: Loafers have always been more of a fall shoe, but in summer’s hottest blush shade and shiny patent leather, this pair is all summer. When worn with light layers on top, soft printed pants, and structured accessories, we’ll be completely work-ready. Throw on denim cutoffs, a jaunty hat, and an easy tank instead? Hello, weekend!

The shoe: the chunky-heel sandal
Wear it for weekend + fancy: There’s nothing like sandals for keeping our toes cool, and showing off our pedicures. But this version goes way beyond the casual sportiness of flip flops and Tevas. The chunky heel is on trend and keeps it walkable, while the braided detail, bright colour, and feminine ankle strap add glam. With a bright peplum top, floaty printed shorts, and luxe bib necklace, we’ll be rocking these at Jazz Fest or out for lunch on a patio. They can also RSVP for a fun summer wedding when worn with a short printed dress and pretty earrings. But, they can also RSVP for a fun summer wedding when worn with a short printed dress and pretty earrings.

The shoe: the neutral suede mule
Wear it for weekend + work: The earthy, rustic feel of western style is everywhere this season, and easy slip-on mules make our boho hearts swoon. With a cropped tee and girly skirt, we’ll be wearing these while traipsing around the farmer’s market Saturday morning. Swap out the tee for a classic button-up and the skirt for a swishy soft pant, and add lady-like pops of colour – you’re ready to take these mules 9 to 5.

What are your favourite summer shoes? Eyeing any new trends for the season? Visit Browns Shoes to shop the pairs in this post, and see the list of St. Vital Centre retailers below for the accompanying looks (check stores for availability).

PS - Love Browns as much as we do? Check our Facebook page on May 8 for a chance to win a Browns Shoes prize!

Loafers
Look 1:
Tank (Lord & Taylor): Hudson's Bay, $79
Pants: Gap, $69.95
Blazer: RW&CO, $119.90
Loafers (Cole Haan): Browns Shoes, $128

Look 2:
Tank: American Eagle Outfitters, $29.95
Shorts: Gap, $54.95
Necklace: Le Chateau, $15
Backpack: Boathouse, $45
Fedora: Gap, $34.95

Sandals
Look 1:
Top: Gap, $28.99
Shorts: American Eagle Outfitters, $29.95
Sandals: Browns Shoes, $138
Necklace: Le Chateau, $29.95

Look 2:
Dress: BCBGMAXAZRIA, $335
Earrings: Le Chateau, $15

Mules
Look 1:
Shirt (Lord & Taylor): Hudson's Bay, $79.99
Skirt (Ralph Lauren Denim & Supply): Hudson's Bay, $69.50
Mules: Browns Shoes, $148
Necklace: American Eagle Outfitters, $15.50
Purse (Jessica): Sears, $54.99

Look 2:
White button-down shirt (Ralph Lauren Denim & Supply): Hudson's Bay, $79.95
Mint cropped sweater: Gap, $34.95
Pants: RW&CO, $55.90
Necklace: Le Chateau, $29.95
Purse: Hudson's Bay, $115