Ask Belle: Minimalist Black Sandals
Jul 8, 2014
Dear Belle,
I absolutely adore the “naked” look of these Stuart Weitzman minimalist sandals as seen on Wendy’s Lookbook and Gary Pepper. I’m not loving the price, however. I know that this style of shoe is pretty popular this season but I can’t seem to find any with as thin of straps as these ones in the under-$100 range. I can see myself pairing them with a myriad of outfits this summer, if only I can get my hands on a pair. Any help?
Thanks! Nancy
The simple sandal is a God-send. They can be paired with any outfit, but, you’re right, they’re tough to find. I came across a cognac pair last month by accident at Nordstrom Rack, and I don’t know how I ever lived without them.
The Stuart Weitzman sandal you referenced has a 4.5″ heel, so I chose these Asos sandals, which have a 5″ heel. I also found this Steve Madden sandal with a patent-leather look. I also liked this Aldo Margetts Sandal with a third strap along the in-step.
Also worth mentioning were three pairs os sandals, that while they weren’t exact matches, are lovely basics that would be welcome in any closet. This medium-height NY & Co. sandal has a sleek look to it for under-$50. I also loved this H&M sandal with a wider front strap for under-$25. And don’t miss these modern BCBGeneration sandals with a criss-cross back strap.
If only my wide platypus feet didn’t look like, well, platypi in thin-strapped shoes.
I have platypus-inclined feet, too, and I’ve found Madewell’s sandals to be a godsend.
Any chance you found any sandals in this style in nude?
Just got that Steve Madden Stecy in nude. Perfect shoe. Little narrow but beautiful and they go with a lot!
I own the BCBGeneration sandals and they are amazing! Sexy and sleek but not so high that you feel wobbly.
I purchased a pair of Michael Antonio “Lovina” heels in nude patent leather. They also come in several other colors. Each time I wear them I receive compliments. They were a steal at $45 and I’m told they look like a much more expensive shoe.
https://vip.zappos.com/michael-antonio-lovina-patent-nude
Good choices! I love the Minimalist but think this style is probably one where you don’t need to splurge on real leather shoes, as it is something you’ll probably only wear on occasional evenings out and won’t keep for more than a couple of years.
I must disagree vehemently on the amount of wear. I purchased (some may say splurged on) a similar shoe, in nude kid leather but with a lower heel height (2.5″). It has been my go-to shoe for everything from church to dates to weddings and parties for the better part of a decade! That pair of shoes has gotten more wear than any shoe in my closet except the flats I wear to commute to work.
Fair enough, but I think the heel height makes a big difference. Wearing a four-inch stiletto to church or a party where you’ll be doing a lot of standing seems like a no-go to me. But, to each their own!
I love this style of shoe, so much! However, 4-5″ is just too high for my comfort. Has anyone come across nude or black ones like this in a 2.5-3″ heel? Would love to find some!