***I wrote this article just over a week ago and had planned to post it last week. Given our current events it felt trivial to post about sandals when there are so many other important issues that require more serious attention. I’ve taken pause and I’m working on educating myself, listening, and finding ways to be H.O.T. —Humble, Open and Teachable. (Thank you Erica Allen for the acronym!) Although I’m resuming my weekly style posts this week, I assure you that my personal growth continues. I hope yours does too . Let’s be H.O.T together! Xx Amanda

Dang I’ve been desperate for a pedicure y’all! It’s full-on summer here in Nashville and I’m sandal ready! Sandals are so easy, no worries about lacing them up, hunting for the perfect socks or wondering if your ankles will get cold. At the end of last summer, I did a major purge of some old ones and have been on the hunt for their future replacements. It got me thinking about the types of sandals you need in your wardrobe, which I’ve hereby dubbed “The Summer Six!” Whether you’re a heels or flats gal these six styles should offer everything you need to get through the season. (Click on photos for more info.)

ONE: THE NEUTRAL

Neutral sounds so boring doesn’t it? It doesn’t have to be! By default, when I think of neutral I think of nude. You know how you should have a pair of nude pumps somewhere in your closet? It’s no different having a nude sandal. When a nude shoe is close to your personal skin tone, they practically disappear on your foot, elongate your legs and they look great with practically anything! You can think of cork or raffia as a neutral too. It lends a texture that feels organic and interesting.

My personal favorite neutral sandal is a metallic. Yes, metallic is a neutral! I like to think of it as jewelry for your feet. Whether you prefer silver, gold, bronze, rose gold…it doesn’t matter! Metallics also go with lots of looks, but still add an element of surprise.

TWO: WEDGE OR STACKED HEEL

If you’re a gal who likes adding some height, the wedge or stacked heel is a refreshing contrast to a traditional heel. Both options offer height with added stability. The natural “heft” of the shoe silhouette pairs nicely with the popular culotte and palazzo pants we’re seeing everywhere this summer, but they also work great with dresses and skirts. Don’t know what color to choose? When in doubt buy this in a neutral, two styles, one sandal!

THREE: BACK TO BLACK

Classic, understated, cool, edgy; a black sandal can play a lot of different roles depending on the style. Whether a sexy, strappy number serves your lifestyle or a more practical gladiator, like it’s cousin the LBD (little black dress), the black sandal should be a staple in your closet.

FOUR: THE SPORT SANDAL

We all know that flip flops are supposedly terrible for our feet, but that’s stopped few of us from wearing them! This summer’s runways have led us to the sport sandal. Whether it’s going on a bike ride or hike, walking the dog, or sitting poolside, everyone needs a practical sandal for summer activities. Although Birkenstocks have always given me Fred Flintstone vibes, I appreciate they’ve made effort to update with some new designs and colorways. I’m personally feeling nostalgic for the Tevas of my college days. Teva has added some fun prints and even platform styles if you want more height. Sport sandals can be a slippery slope from cool to clunky so make sure the proportion of the shoe fits your aesthetic. Slimmer soles will typically be more flattering.

FIVE: PARTY HEELS

I’m not terribly confident this will be a popular choice this summer seeing how many weddings and events are indefinitely canceled due to the global health crisis, but this shoe should be in your closet should the opportunity to do something fabulous arises! If high heels aren’t in the cards for you, luckily strappy, kitten heeled sandals are everywhere this season.

SIX: SUMMER FUN

Everyone should own at least one pair of shoes that brings you DELIGHT! That’s going to mean something different to everyone. It might be a bold color, glamorous embellishment, funky sole or quirky print. Whatever it is, when you put them on your feet should smile! Save the serious shoes for fall, now is the time to play!

Are you challenged finding comfortable footwear? People are shopping online like crazy, are my favs already sold out? Let’s find the summer shoe wardrobe that works for your lifestyle and budget!

Stay tuned next week for tips to keep your new sandals looking good, fitting properly, and your feet feeling even better!

***Have you been enjoying reading these blogs over the past few weeks? What more would you like to learn about? I’m passionate about empowering women to feel confident getting dressed and understanding how to find styles that work for them. Please send me your thoughts and questions! Thanks friends! Xx Amanda