10th Commandment: May 14
May 14, 2013
Last week–and probably the week before, and the week before that–I mentioned that I like colored flats. I think they have the power to really jazz up an outfit and make a basic pair of jeans or a simple dress a bit more fashionable. But judging from some the Ask Belle e-mails that I received last week, some of you are not sold on the idea of colored flats and others just aren’t sure how to wear them.
In my book, red is the bedrock choice for colored flats. You can wear red with any neutral color and most other colors as well. I have a pair of red low-wedges that I wear constantly. This pair from Tory Burch ($124), these patent Ted Baker flats ($116) and these Calvin Klein shoes with side cut outs ($69) are all good choices.
Since I already own red, I’m in the market for a coral flat. All the versatility or red with a kick of summer. The Corso Como flats above are a structured flat, they also make a more casual (commuter?) flat called the Famenka flat for $59. However, if you need structure for less, try these $50 pointed-toe Halogen flats or these round-toe Sam Edelman flats ($69) that come in a host of bright colors.
Other colors to try, I like these bright yellow flats (good with navy and grey), these green flats or these cobalt flats.
I would heartily second the versatility of red flats. I’ve got a patent pair that are on the verge of falling apart from all the use I’ve given them. They’re especially good for days when you need to be on your feet all day but still look professional. Red flats + navy Calvin Klein dress + yellow belt = one of the most comfortable but professional outfits I own.
Belle, I adore you, but that Instagram pic is casual (not business casual). You can chalk my bitterness up to the fact that my office is business formal and only gets business casual on “special” days. No jeans ever. Whine whine whine.
Now back to lusting over colored flats… I want light pink and navy blue.
As you mentioned, what defines “business casual” varies from office to office. My last office was no jeans ever, so business casual was chinos and jersey dresses. This one allows jeans with better separates, hence the silk blouse and the jacket. Were I wearing a polo or a sweater, then it would qualify as casual for this office.
My husband and I both work at offices where the stated dress code is “business casual.” At my office, it means dresses/skirts/dress pants Monday-Thursday and jeans only on Fridays. At his office, it means a “nice” jeans outfit any day of the week (jeans without rips or holes, nice shoes that aren’t running shoes, collared shirts or sweaters for men and blouses or sweaters for women). Proof that “business casual” is a meaningless and not useful term.
I love colored flats in a big way, and currently have a burgundy pair and a bright pink pair in the rotation.
Oh and light grey.