11 It-Girl-Approved Shoes You NEED in Your Closet This Summer

Save the flip-flops for your post-workout shower. With so many covetable steppers in the wings this summer, why settle for anything less than OMG-worthy? Espadrilles are a solid choice, but this season’s offerings go so far beyond the average rope-bottomed option. Metallic ankle boots, ultra bright mules, and embroidered heels are just a few of the Insta-ready styles you can expect to see on the feet of It girls this season. Whether your summer plans involve a lengthy list of festivals or a one-way ticket to paradise, these are the Instababe-approved shoes you need to take along for the ride.

1. Festival-Ready Metallic Boots: An unexpected alternative to classic studded leather or strappy suede styles, these high-shine steppers are guaranteed to score you best-dressed status as you sway to the beat.

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Organic Sandals 🌾🌾

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2. Beachy Rope Sandals: Forget flip-flops — a stint in the sand calls for a pair of nautical kicks that would look just as Insta-worthy teamed alongside a swingy sundress or a bombshell one-piece swimsuit.

3. Wear-Anywhere Mules: By now you’re familiar with the sartorial powers mules possess — they effortlessly transition from the office to after-hours shenanigans and weekend chillin’ in a snap. Well, they lose zero appeal in the summer sun — just swap out neutral hues in favor of punchy color for a supremely sophisticated look with endless panache.

4. Fresh White Sneakers: Fact: The merits of white sneakers will never wane, especially when you’re pounding the pavement during a big city escape. Whether you’re playing tourist or running errands, these throw-on-and-go numbers won’t steer you wrong. Our fave way to wear them? With a flirty, feminine frock for plenty of cool-girl contrast.

5. Strappy Statement Heels: The statement heel is alive and well for summer 2017, and best believe these pearl-studded beauties will be making the rounds on Insta. Style ’em up for brunch and boutique hopping with an airy midi skirt and denim jacket, or toss ’em with a saucy romper and bold drop earrings for an upcoming GNO.

6. Hot Pink Loafers: Step aside, sandals — boss-lady loafers aren’t going anywhere anytime soon. When you need a break from pool slides and gladiators, step into a bright pair of flats for a modern It girl-approved look that comes together in seconds.

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🍋@celine

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7. Sculptural Lace-Ups: A square-toe silhouette and lace-up straps are a match made in heaven, creating a trend-right sandal that pairs perfectly with culottes, wrap dresses, and everything in between for rooftop cocktails and dinner by the sea.

8. Embellished Slides: Slide into summer a la model Rocky Barnes with edgy embellished slides that inject a classic jeans-and-tank combo with a healthy dose of don’t-mess appeal. Don’t even think about heading out the door without a killer set of sunnies that will make passersby do a double take.

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Fishing for Gainsbard ⚓️ #BirkinWannabes

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9. Woven Pumps: A trip to the Hamptons or the Tuscan coast call for a pair of steppers that are equal parts ladylike and laid-back. Look no further than these architectural woven block heels that were practically made for sipping limoncello in the sun.

10. Technicolor Kicks: Do you really need a reason to add a set of rainbow bright sandals to your arsenal? Be it a stroll through the farmers’ market or a lazy day spent chillin’ by the pool, their good vibes are prime time for whatever is on your agenda. Just toss on a crocheted dress and souped-up straw bag for a flawless warm-weather getup.

11. Embroidered Sandals: Embroidered accessories are an essential this season, and one glance at these block-heeled beauties and it’s not hard to discern why. While they’d make the perfect finishing touch to a twirl-worthy lace dress for your BFF’s wedding, we love the way they jazz up everyday denim and tees.

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Winter is undoubtedly here (boo, snow and cold!), but a whole new wave of weather means it’s time to step up not only your layering game, but your shoe game, too. From stylish tall boots to cozy lined house shoes, these 5 types of winter shoes are simply the perfect pairs to get you through the season in style.

Check out the 5 must-have winter shoe styles to keep your winter wardrobe looking and feeling fresh this year!

Free People

Frye Campus 14L Boots

1. Tall boots

Tall boots are just that girl when it comes to winter outfits. They truly wear well alone, but for wintertime, they look especially stunning when you layer ‘em up with leggings or tights.

Free People

Jeffrey Campbell Katrina Pull-On Tall Boots

There are quite a few variations in design when it comes to tall boots, so you could snag them in a moto, cowboy boot, or sleek style.

Tecovas

Tecovas The Abby Boots

Whatever tall boot style speaks to you the most and will be most practical for your needs will be perfect!

Blundstone

Blundstone All-Terrain Thermal Chelsea Boots

2. Snow boots

Snow boots are honestly non-negotiable if you live somewhere, well, snowy.

Nordstrom

Sorel Tivoli V Faux Fur Lined Waterproof Boots

Snow boots are designed with the cold in mind, so they’re often expertly insulated and boast reliable textured soles that won’t fail you on slippery ice.

Nordstrom

Hunter Amble Booties

Sorel, UGG, Hunter, and Blundstone make some of my favorite snow boots since they still look effortlessly stylish, all while keeping your feet safe and warm!

SeaVees

SeaVees Bodega Clogs

3. Clogs

Where would I be without my clogs?! Seriously – they’re super helpful if I need to run a quick errand or take my dog for a brief walk outside. The best part about clogs is they’re extremely easy to put on and take off – no time for traditional laces over here!

I thoroughly enjoy this gardening-inspired pair from SeaVees because the soles are fitted with a good amount of traction to keep me from slip-sliding when I have to go out in the snow. They’re also waterproof, keeping my feet dry with every step.

Nordstrom

Chaco Ramble Water Resistant Puffer Clogs

Puffer styles like these are especially great if more warmth is what you’re seeking this season.

DSW

Chaco Paonia Clogs

I also can’t recommend these Chacos clogs enough, since they’re remarkably durable and perfect for year-round wear.

Adidas

Adidas Samba OG Shoes

4. Reliable sneakers

Sneakers are a must no matter the season, but having a pair for winter can really depend on your season-specific needs. Whether it’s a running sneaker that’s primed for the gym’s treadmills or a more fashion-forward design that you want to rock with all of your ‘going out’ outfits, there’s a winter sneaker for everyone.

New Balance

New Balance 530 Sneakers

I tend to shop sneakers for winter in more toned-down color palettes, since I typically wear more monochromatic ‘fits when the weather’s gloomy. I really adore my New Balance 530's since I can easily take them from a workout to a night out.

Nordstrom

UGG Disquette Slippers

5. Cozy house shoes

Finally, cozy house shoes should be a given when it comes to winter. I surely spend more time at home around this time of year, and when I’m hibernating, my toes get annoyingly cold! I know I'm not the only one, too.

Amazon

Dearfoams Chloe Soft Knit Clog Slippers

That’s where a good slipper or house shoe comes in – they exist to protect your feet from the elements, ensuring you stay cozy all season long.

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Whether you're spending Valentine's Day with your sweetie, hosting a Galentine's brunch for your gal pals, or basking in love with your fam, there's no question that a fancy dessert helps set the tone for a cozy and love-filled night in. We personally love cooking pasta recipes followed by a succulent dessert, but the menu options for Love Day run the gamut from seafood to international cuisine.

One thing that's not optional is chocolate — known to promote feelings similar to being in love or spending time with those closest to you, chocolate is one of the best flavors for Valentine's Day desserts. Combined with red wine and seasonal pear, it makes for a simply decadent treat — hence, this Red Wine Pear Cake. Trust us: This is going to be the best chocolate cake recipe you have ever tried.

Learn how to make the best Chocolate Cake ever

Red Wine Pear Cake With Chocolate Ganache

Sarah Anderson

Ingredients:

Pears

  • 3-4 firm Bosc pears
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 1/2 cups red wine
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 3-4 whole cloves or 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

Cake

  • 2 eggs
  • 1/2 full-fat coconut milk
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
  • 11 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 1/2 cups coconut sugar
  • 1/2 cup red wine
  • 1/2 teaspoon pink salt
  • 1/2 cup 85% dark chocolate chips or bar broken into small pieces
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup cocoa powder
  • 1 cup gluten-free or regular all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda

Ganache

  • 2/3 cup dark chocolate chips
  • 1/3 cup full-fat coconut milk or heavy whipping cream
  • 2 tablespoons reserved spiced wine (see recipe notes)

Sarah Anderson

Directions:

  1. Peel the skin off the pears and remove the stems, seeds, and core. Slice in half. Add water, red wine, cinnamon, and cloves into a saucepan and place the pears in the liquid. Bring the wine mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let simmer for 20 minutes, until the pears are tender. Remove the pears from red wine and let cool. Continue simmering until sauce is reduced, and reserve 2 tablespoons for the chocolate ganache.
  2. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
  3. Grease two 9-inch springform cake pans with butter or oil and set aside.
  4. Whisk two eggs in a separate bowl and set aside.
  5. In a small bowl, add the coconut milk and apple cider vinegar and whisk thoroughly. Let sit for at least 5 minutes.
  6. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Whisk in the coconut sugar then remove from heat and add in the red wine and salt until well mixed. Quickly add in the dark chocolate pieces and stir constantly until the chocolate is melted. Pour the vanilla extract in and whisk again.
  7. Add about one third of the chocolate mixture to the whisked eggs. Mix thoroughly and then pour back into a mixing bowl with the rest of the chocolate mixture.
  8. Add in coconut milk mixture, cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and baking soda, and mix until well combined.
  9. Pour the cake batter into two greased cake pans.
  10. Slice wine-poached pear halves in quarters and place in your desired design on top of the cake batter in the cake pans.
  11. Bake the cakes for 20-30 minutes.
  12. While cakes are baking, add the dark chocolate and coconut milk or heavy cream to a small saucepan. Heat on low until the chocolate is melted, whisking so that it is well mixed. Add in the reserved wine sauce and whisk again. Remove from heat and set aside.
  13. Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool completely before removing them from the springform pans. Place one cake on a cake platter or stand, and drizzle some chocolate ganache on top. Then place the second cake on top of the first and pour the remaining chocolate ganache over the top.

If this is the best chocolate cake recipe you've ever tried, you'll want to sign up for our newsletter for more recipes like this one!

Recipe by Sarah Anderson

This post has been updated.

Ah, a new year – the perfect time to reevaluate and refresh your routine, diet, home, and of course, your closet! I always try to take the time at the top of a new year to clean out the pieces that don’t serve me anymore, and the one thing I tend to comb through the most is my shoe collection. From sneakers to sandals and boots to clogs, I typically come across several outdated pairs that make me wonder why I even wore them in the first place!

In the vein of going all-in on a brand-new beginning for your shoe collection in 2025, you’re gonna want to know these 5 outdated winter shoe trends to start the year off right – and in style.

These are the top 5 outdated winter shoe trends for 2025, plus the best styles to wear instead.

Ugg

UGG Classic Tall Boots

1. Tall UGG boots

Tall UGG boots are so 2010. They can be clunky, annoyingly warm on the feet, and tend to make your body proportions look… funky.

Nordstrom

UGG Classic Ultra Mini Boots

Instead, opt for the UGGs all the cool girls are wearing well into winter 2025: the Classic Mini. These boots don’t rise nearly as high on your legs, lengthening and flattering your figure.

Nordstrom

UGG Classic Ultra Mini Platform Boots

UGG even sells a shorter style called the Ultra Mini, which you can also snag in a platform silhouette.

UGGs are undoubtedly winter-ready since they’re lined with shearling on the inside to keep your toes warm. If you’re worried about snow or ice getting to them, you can get an UGG boot guard or spray your pair down in waterproof and stain-proof protectant.

Amazon

Circus NY Nellie Mary Janes

2. Platform shoes

I hate to say it, but platform shoes seem to be on their way out for 2025. And I get it – platform shoes like Mary Janes and loafers can be impractical, especially if you have to commute in treacherous winter conditions like snow.

Urban Outfitters

Urban Outfitters Matilda Mary Jane Ballet Flats

Instead, the fashion world is blowing up with lower-profile shoe designs, meaning they don’t have as much height to them.

Nordstrom

Sam Edelman Denise Penny Loafer

Opt for low-lying ballet flats, loafers, and Mary Janes to keep your shoe game subtle, yet stylish in 2025.

Nordstrom

AGL The Chunky Biker Lug Sole Leather Boots

3. Round-toe boots

We’re going to be seeing less and less round-toe boots (and round-toe shoes in general) this coming year. They were definitely popular at a point in time, but a lot of fashion fiends nowadays are wearing the more eye-catching, and even more sultry shoe designs that include square or pointed toes.

Free People

Jeffrey Campbell Lights Out Moto Boots

Try out these square-toe boots to instantly elevate your outfits in 2025.

Nordstrom

Dolce Vita Shadie Waterproof Pointed Toe Chelsea Boots

Pointed-toe boots are also undeniably chic.

Nordstrom

Moon Boot Classic Low 2 Water Repellent Nylon Boots

4. Moon boots

It could just be me living near a ton of mountain towns, but Moon boots are a winter shoe trend I’m simply tired of seeing. They stick out like a sore thumb when it comes to snow boots, plus even though they have a hefty price tag, they don’t necessarily stand out from other similar snow boots, other than the fact that they have a big logo stamped across them for curb appeal.

Moon boots have gotta go. Try other warm (and less obnoxious) snow boot styles, like the ones below.

Nordstrom

Sorel Tivoli V Faux Fur Lined Waterproof Boots

These cozy, lined boots are way less bulky but still provide great traction and protection against snowy weather.

Nordstrom

Hunter Amble Booties

These insulated booties ensure you stay comfy, warm, and dry this season – all while looking stylish!

DSW

Fila Disruptor II Sneakers

5. Chunky sneakers

I fear chunky sneakers – like the ever-popular Fila Disruptors – are simply out of style. They’ve been done over and over again, and instead, the fashion girls are showing off in something entirely brand-new.

In case you didn’t know, sleek platform sneakers – most notably the Adidas Gazelles or Handball Spezials – are so in. They’re practically the “It” girl shoes that keep on giving.

Shop my fave styles below.

Adidas

Adidas Gazelle Bold Shoes

The stacked soles on these shoes are everything.

Free People

Ash Mae Buckle Hi Top Sneakers

This familiar shoe style is elevated even more with an edgy buckle design.

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Did Tom Holland and Zendaya spike the air with love following their engagement news? I mean, it seems like everyone's popping the question these days! If you've recently said "yes" to the love of your life's big question, all that's left to do now is start planning so you can walk down the aisle into the next chapter of your relationship's story.

Before you start randomly choosing wedding dates, you may want to take advice from Amy Abbott of Amy Abbott Events, Tara Fay of Tara Fay Events, and Wendee Vezzetti of Custom Weddings of Colorado because they have keen tips to help you avoid a few faux pas. Think of it as their way of helping you avoid further stress.

"While every couple's wedding day is special, there are a few dates that might cause more stress than celebration — both on the day and in the years to come," says Vezzetti.

Scroll to see the worst days to have your wedding!

Khaki Bedford

1. New Years Eve

December 31 may have come and gone, but there's always more NYE events to come. It's just one of the worst days to have your wedding. No, I mean it. Abbott suggests this isn't the time to pack two celebratory events into one. As the owner and creative director of Amy Abbott Events, she's helped plan luxurious weddings for some of Hollywood's top celebrities and athletes — including Simone Biles!

So, why no fabulous wedding on NYE? She says, "You’ll end up paying almost 50 percent more as vendors typically charge much higher rates." But, that's just the tip of the iceberg. She also adds, "For destination weddings during this time of year, hotels often enforce 5- to 7-night minimum stays, with hotel rates being nearly double. This can make it almost impossible for your guests to commit to attending your wedding." Even if you think money isn't an issue, she advises "it's just a very costly option."

That's not the only issue you could face. "To add to the challenge, some of the best vendors often take the entire holiday season off, making availability a significant issue." This just made our jaws drop because we didn't know this! But we can imagine this feels like one of the times they get to catch their breath before prepping for such a huge moment in people's lives so it's not unbelievable!

Jim Trice

2. Valentine's Day

Valentine's Day is such a romantic day that deserves to be reserved for celebrating how much you're in love. But, please don't think your wedding has to be on February 14. Vezzetti says this day along with NYE "may sound romantic," but they're not in "reality."

She says, "These dates are super popular for weddings and other celebrations, which means venues and vendors charge a premium." And guess what? She says you're not even considering "future anniversaries."

Her advice if you decide to forge ahead is: "Good luck booking a cozy dinner reservation when everyone else is celebrating too."

Khaki Bedford for Amy Abbott Events

3. Super Bowl Sunday

Another thing Fay says couples "often forget about" are "major sporting events." Her rule of thumb is to "try to understand the guest list and audience" so her team can be "conscious of their experiences."

It's the reason she's against have a wedding on Super Bowl Sunday. She says, "It may leave guests less present at your event, even if you're not a football fan. So we [the Tara Fay Events team] try to be conscious of big cultural and sporting events like this."

Always be aware of times close to major holidays. If guests have to travel distances and be away from their families, that may impact your rsvp’s. Plus, it’s typically more expensive to travel those times of year. Don’t forget about international holidays as well, Diwali for example.

Amy Abbott Events

4. Labor Day

Vezzetti also discourages scheduling a wedding on Labor Day. The rule used to be that you couldn't wear white after this holiday passed, but now you need to rethink your plans if you plan to trade 'I Do's" on this date.

"Long holiday weekends may seem ideal for travel, but they also come with headaches. First, heavy traffic," says Vezzetti. She and her team "have seen travel times TRIPLE on Colorado roadways during these holidays." This fact alone made our hearts skip a beat because we caught of a flash of you potentially being late your own wedding!

Also, Vezzetti says you won't be the only person in town for a holiday like this. "Because everyone else is traveling, lodging and restaurants are hard to come by, especially popular mountain retreats in places like Colorado."

Amy Abbott Events

5. Memorial Day

Sigh... We don't know why anyone would want to have a wedding on Memorial Day, but personal preference always plays a factor in decisions like this. The issue, Vezzetti warns, is that you're risking a lot by doing so. "Before you set the date, do a little research as to local annual events," she advises.

For example, Boulder, Colorado is a "great destination with amazing scenery, warm weather, and world-class dining" according to her. "But Memorial Day in Boulder, Colorado brings more than 50,000 runners into town. So definitely check the local calendar for your wedding destination and make sure you aren't going to share your special day with thousands of others."

Can you imagine having an outdoor wedding where your guests are torn between watching you emotionally exchange vows as marathon runners sprint nearby?

Taryn Baxter for Amy Abbott Events

I'm kind of scared I'll choose the wrong date. What are good days or months to have my wedding?

This sounds like a "how-to" guide of everything you shouldn't do when choosing your wedding date, but there's still a large window of opportunity! "The best months to get married for tropical destination weddings are October 15th through July 15th," Abbott says.

But, there's a catch. "Once you go beyond that, you risk running into hurricane season. Even if you're fortunate enough to avoid a storm, the intense heat and relentless bugs can take away from the enjoyment of your day," she adds. All in all, "it's simply not an ideal time of year" because "the weather can significantly impact your overall experience," according to her.

Amy Abbott Events

Fay agrees with this by adding "major weather events are important to consider" at all times. She also added you should "take note of monsoon months" along with "hurricane season." She knows no one can really "predict bad weather," but she wants you to "aim for months that more often provide the experience you're looking to have."

Vezzetti says "popular dates in Colorado are the summer months (June-September) because of the scenic outdoor backdrops and warm weather." But she knows there are "trade-offs" like "venues and vendors" booking early, plus the chance "you might pay higher prices" even though the "gorgeous sand makes it worth it!"

The truth is that your special day should feel as seamless as possible. Something is sure not to go according to plan, but it shouldn't involve something interrupting the entire date you've chosen to have your weeding. Fay's final piece of advice, "If you want to get married in Europe, be aware of when Europeans go on holiday and try to avoid August which is the busiest time for major European countries.

But, the trade-offs are that venues and vendors book early and you might pay higher prices (but it's gorgeous sand worth it!). But, if you want to save, In Colorado late spring (April–May) and late fall (November) are excellent for the value. Plus, venues and vendors often have more availability. This concept can be applied to other destinations, but they may have seasonal variations. So, be sure to check the seasonal highs and lows in whatever area you are planning to tie the knot.

Amy Abbott Events

A tip you may not have considered is doing "a little research on when courthouses in the destination issue marriage licenses." Vezzetti suggests doing this so you're well-prepared and can "plan with enough travel time so you are not scrambling to get your legal documents."

Not sure when to go? Vezzetti says, "In most States, courthouses are only open during banking hours (Mon-Fri, generally), and while the process may quick (in Colorado, expect 15 minutes, tops), couples without a plan might find themselves in panic mode." Didn't we say we don't want you passing out before your big day even arrives? Take Vezzetti's advice and "do a little research" so you can "plan to arrive a day early!"

Before you panic, Abbott has one last thing to share. "The good news? There are nearly nine and a half months of perfect timing for wedding planning, giving couples plenty of options to make their big day truly unforgettable!"

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I'm a hardcore drugstore makeup gal. My vanity is full of ELF products, Colourpop eyeshadow, and NYX lip oils, but when it comes to lip products, I'm pretty set on what I have for one reason: the drugstore lipstick I've purchased since high school makes my lips look so good, I never want to buy another product.

Now as a type-A eldest daughter, I love sticking to products I know work for me...until they start getting boring. But this L'Oreal lipstick literally never feels like a bore. Every single time I put it on, I'm surprised at just how good it looks. Even though I've been buying it since 2015, it never fails to bring me joy! And TBH, that's what makeup is all about.

Here's everything you need to know about the $7 L'Oreal lipstick.

This L'Oreal lipstick is flattering & moisturizing.

Chloe Williams/Brit + Co

The L'Oreal Paris Colour Riche Original Satin Lipstick is a hydrating formula that features Omega 3, Vitamin E, and Argan Oil to moisturize your lips while also providing the perfect amount of color. It's not overwhelming but I can definitely tell when I'm wearing it — and I feel more confident when I do so!

The formula also glides on so smoothly, and doesn't feel tacky, sticky, or cakey like other lipsticks I've tried. And other reviewers agree! "I bought two lipsticks as I needed them in a pinch and I am very pleased with the color and the quality of these lipsticks," one customer said on the Target site. "Great value and they are pretty moisturizing as well."

"I have used it for a long time," another customer said. "It feels good on my lips. It has staying power. I like the different shades."

I also love the simplicity of the tube. It feels modern and minimalist at the same time, and it fits in my smallest handbag which makes touch-ups on a night out easier than ever.

Chloe Williams/Brit + Co

I've been buying shade 754, Sugar Plum, since I was a senior in high school, and it's the most flattering lipstick I've ever worn. It truly looks like my lips, but better! And one of the best parts is that I can just swipe it on without even looking in a mirror.

Chloe Williams/Brit + Co

There are also matte options but I prefer the slight shimmer and glow of the satin lipstick — clearly, because I've worn this tube almost all the way down! I definitely need to buy another tube (or two) in the near future. And as we get closer to Valentine's Day, you might want to as well ;).

Are you a fan of L'Oreal lipsticks? Check out Brit + Co's other Best Drugstore Lipstick and Best Drugstore Lip Stain for even more ideas because we are right in the throes of kissing season y'all!!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.