Must-Have: Nude Pumps

There are a few key pieces that every woman should own. One of those is a nude pump. In fact, if I were only allowed to own one pair of shoes, I would, without hesitation, select a pair of nude pumps. So, what makes nude pumps so special you ask?
 
THEY ELONGATE YOUR LEGS
This might be my number one reason for loving nude pumps as much as I do – and if you want to appear taller and thinner it will be your favorite reason as well. Shoes that are the same color as your skin-tone create the illusion of longer legs because there is no visual break.

{Shirt: Yael Steren; Skirt: Reiss (old); Necklace: Yael Steren; Lipstick & Lip Pencil: Urban Decay Revolution in Bang; Shoes in Left & Middle Photos: Jimmy Choo (old), similar here; Shoes in Right Photo: Alexander Wang}

You can see in the photo on the left that my legs appear the longest. The nude pumps create a streamlined effect and trick your eye into thinking my legs are longer.
 
In the middle photo my legs appear shorter. Anything that breaks the line of your leg to your foot (in this case, the black pumps) will make your leg appear shorter.
 
Moving on to the photo on the right. In this photo my legs appear the shortest AND my ankles appear wider. Notice how your eye stops at the ankle straps, making my legs appear as though they stop there as well. If the straps were wider they would amplify the shortening and widening effect.
 
 
Shopping tips:

1. In order to achieve this elongating effect the nude pump should blend in seamlessly with your skin-tone. Think about nude pumps the same way you would about foundation – you have to find a shade that works for you and matches your skin-tone. Try on a few different pairs to find your perfect shade.

 

2. Choose a pair of nude pumps with a low cut vamp. The vamp is the part of the shoe that covers the top part of the foot.
   
   A higher vamp shortens the appearance of your leg, whereas a low cut vamp will elongate your leg.

 

3. Avoid purchasing a pair of nude pumps with a square or rounded toe. Instead, opt for a pointed toe. The narrower toe box will visually extend the line of your leg making it appear longer.

 
 
THEY ARE VERSATILE
Nude pumps are also on my list of key pieces that every woman should own because of their versatility. Because nude pumps are neutral, they can be paired with every color garment and be dressed up or down.
 
Not only do nude pumps transition seamlessly from day to night but also from season to season. You can wear them with your shorts, jeans, pants, skirts, and dresses.
 
Their versatility also comes in handy when packing for a trip. You can pack one pair of nude pumps and have almost every outfit covered.
 
 
THEY ARE TIMELESS
I am a huge proponent of investing in classic pieces, and the nude pump fits into this category. You can rest assured that a classic nude pump won’t go out of style. I still have a pair of nude pumps in my closet that I purchased back in 2006 and to this day I still receive compliments when I wear them.
 
 
Shopping tips:

1. Do not purchase anything trendy. Avoid peep toes, platforms, embellishments, and heels that are chunky, too thin (stilettos) or too high (more than 4 inches).

 

2. Do look for a pair made out of smooth or patent leather, both of which are more durable and versatile than suede.

 
 
Stay tuned for next week’s post where I will reveal how to extend the life of your shoes!
 
Until then – do you love nude pumps as much as I do? Let me know in the comments below!