The Tip Jar #5: Building the Ultimate Spring & Summer Shoe Collection
Sharing the Top 3 Shoes to Maximize Your Wardrobe and Effortlessly Adapt to Every Occasion
The Tip Jar is back for 2025, and I’m excited to help you tackle your biggest style dilemmas. Last month, we helped a reader make a lasting impression with date night looks - showing how the right top and accessories can boost confidence and set the perfect tone for the evening.
But what about your shoes?
A great outfit always starts from the ground up. Therefore, no look is truly complete without selecting the perfect pair. And that leads us to this month’s reader request:
I’ve been thinking a lot about shoes lately and how to make the most of my wardrobe, especially with warmer days ahead. Whether I'm at the office, out for drinks, or fitting in a workout, I need shoes that can handle all of it. What’s the best way to build a shoe collection that works for work, going out, and the gym? How would you break it down?
With Spring approaching, it’s easy to get caught up in the idea of building a shoe collection like Carrie Bradshaw’s — full of every Manolo imaginable.
The temptation is real, but let’s be honest: not all of us have the budget, the closet space, or even the lifestyle for an endless rotation. Instead, it’s about curating a handful of versatile pairs that work for every spring and summer moment.
The key? Investing in styles that go the distance. Enter the ultimate 3-shoe wardrobe— a mix of sleek, multifunctional pairs that cover all the bases. Whether you’re powering through meetings, squeezing in a workout, or heading to a last-minute dinner, these picks ensure you’re always ready.
#1: A Sneaker Built For More Than Just Running
Let's kick off with the perfect kicks (see what I did there?). As someone who’s had my fair share of running injuries—think boot, crutches, stress fractures, oh my—I take my running shoes VERY SERIOUSLY. I’ve logged miles in the Nike Pegasus, tested the ASICS Nimbus, and given the New Balance 1080s a shot, only to end up sidelined more times than I’d like to admit. Finding the right running shoe is about staying injury-free, keeping the miles pain-free, and topping it off by looking chic while doing it. But since 2018, I’ve been running in Brooks Ghost sneakers and have remained injury-free. A milestone worth celebrating, which makes them the perfect shoes to share for this exercise (and the puns keep coming 🤣).
The Brooks Ghost is a must-have for your wardrobe. It’s more than just a performance sneaker—it’s designed to seamlessly fit into every part of your day.
Gym: Ideal for running, training, and providing the support needed to keep you injury-free during your weekly workouts.
Work: Pair with a structured blazer and your favorite jeans for a casual yet polished office look that moves with you.
Out: Perfect for a weekend brunch — stylish enough to elevate your look while staying comfortable all day long.
+Travel: I love wearing mine while traveling which adds perfect bonus points for any carry-on. Whether I'm squeezing in a quick workout or exploring a new city for hours, they keep me going without missing a beat. They're the perfect balance of performance, comfort, and style.
#2: A Loafer That's Sharp, Stylish and Ready for Anything
Our next shoe is the loafer — an option that might be a bit controversial for some. For the ladies out there, it’s probably not your first style choice, especially if you’re leaning toward something more feminine. The loafer leans masculine, offering a structured, polished look that’s not as delicate as a ballet flat or heeled shoe. But that’s exactly why it works so well! It adds an edge to your wardrobe while remaining versatile. My go-to pair? The Bass Weejuns - especially my Estelle Tassel pair. I’ve had the same pair since 2016, and their timeless appeal, plus great price point, makes them a go-to in my closet. Plus, Weejuns come in a variety of styles—think tassel pairs, lug soles, patent leather, or fun heart details. Each brings a little pizzazz to your wardrobe and caters to a wide selection of customers and their style preferences.
There’s a reason you might have trouble discovering which pair is for which gender in the image above. These loafers are perfect for anyone and everyone who’s looking to add a polished, yet effortlessly cool shoe to their collection. It’s the quintessential, chic shoe that moves seamlessly between laid-back and refined styles. A true wardrobe staple that combines versatility with timeless appeal. From the boardroom to the bar, the loafer adapts to whatever the day throws at you.
Work: I pair mine with tailored trousers or a mini skirt, channeling schoolgirl charm while keeping it professional and comfortable.
Out: These loafers shine with denim on date night, adding an elevated touch to your ensemble without the need for heels.
#3: A Sandal for All of Summer's Adventures
And last but certainly not least, to round out your spring/summer collection, I'd be remiss if I didn’t include a sandal. While it might feel like we’re months away from showing our toes to the sun, trust me, it will be here before we know it. I tend to stick with an affordable option — nothing over $150 — because I know these sandals are going to see a lot of action, from early mornings to late nights, from the subway to the office and beyond. The sole is the most important feature to me. I need something sturdy and supportive, as I’ll be walking a lot, but it also needs to feel comfortable enough to wear all day without any discomfort.
My favorite pair will easily become your new go-to since they clock in at under $100. I've been rocking my Salt Water Sandals for the last decade, and they've been key shoes in my wardrobe because they’re both budget-friendly and incredibly well-made. The more I wear them, the better they get. The sole molds to your feet, making them the perfect companion for endless city walks, long summer days, and everything in between. They also bring a subtle vintage charm, giving any outfit a classic yet distinctive vibe.
Salt Water has introduced a few more styles over the years, along with an array of fresh colors like olive, mustard, and rose gold. But you can never go wrong with black, tan, or latte. These timeless shades effortlessly pair with a wide range of outfits, making them perfect for any occasion all summer long.
Work: Chic enough to pair with officewear (especially in black), make them a summer-friendly alternative to loafers or flats.
Out: I love pairing mine with a flowy summer dress or tank top and skirt for nights out in the city or on vacation.
Weekend: They are the ultimate shoes for Saturday. Whether you're strolling through the city, running errands, or heading to the beach — they’re easy to wear all day, no fuss required.
For my male readers who dare to wear sandals to the office (and aren't reaching for flip-flops), look no further than the Daniel from Jerusalem Sandals. This option strikes the perfect balance of affordability, durability, and style. The fisherman-style sandal remains on trend, offering both comfort and breathability. It's a versatile and polished choice for both casual outings and work, making it an ideal option for any occasion this summer.
--
Now’s the right time to build a shoe collection that covers all your Spring and Summer needs. Take inventory of your closet, as these are three foundational pairs that everyone needs. A solid running shoe, a versatile loafer, and a reliable sandal will have you covered for every occasion, from work to weekend adventures. Even if you need to overhaul your collection and purchase all three, it’s a worthy investment that will pay off in the long run, as they’re all designed to last season after season.
And if you’ve made it to the end, I'll end on a fun note — if you share Musings of a Merchandiser with five friends, you can receive your next tip in the Tip Jar, either in March or the coming months. Happy Sharing 📤 👥 !!!
Oh girl you know I love a good shoe article. Treat to read this morning. I’m going to look into the Brooks Ghost.
Also a little lame on my behalf… but socks w a loafer??? Is it do-able? I love the loafer look but if it’s not a sandal, I NEED a sock. How do I make it work? Is it even possible?