Warm weather is officially here and with it the promise of weddings, graduations, parties and dinners where we stay out a little too late. Which brings us to shoes … do you have the right ones? I don’t mean the trendiest or the largest variety. What I mean is having shoes to pull from that just complete any outfit easily.

Today, we’re showcasing six summer shoes to have on hand. And sure, having all six is fabulous, but really, having the one that works best for you is what we’re talking about. In a world where shoes really don’t mean that much in the grand scheme of life, having the just-right-shoe to reach for does make said life a little bit easier, making a bad day a little brighter and not causing that freak out &*$&#(^! moment when not one pair looks quite right. It’s in that vein that we’ve pulled our thoughts for best summer shoes for 2017 and beyond.

And, special thanks to Oak Hall for matching each of our suggestions with a gorgeous option from their women’s shoe department!

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THE CLASSICS

Espadrille wedge

No shoe better embodies summer than the espadrille. Originating in Spain, with versions going back 4,000 years, the defining feature of an espadrille is the jute sole. The wedge espadrille came into fashion in the 1970s, when Spanish shoe company Castañer partnered with Yves Saint Laurent to bring to life the high fashion designer’s desire to bring the wedge espadrille to his collection. They have been fashionable ever since and are perfectly paired with everything from jeans to high fashion dresses.

Nude heel

For all seasons, a nude heel is needed. The same nude pump or wedge can work for summer or winter, and on that note, a nude patent works at all times of the day and in any season. For summer, wear that all-season shoe or a strappy sandal variety as they will work with practically anything. Just buy the heel height you find most comfortable.

BRIGHT & FUN

Have a pair of “these make me so happy” in whatever your favorite bright color is. Be it pink, blue or yellow, floral, metallic or animal print. These are your “look at me” shoes that brighten most outfits, but likely can’t be worn with everything in your closet. But for those outfits that they do work with, they’re perfection.

TRENDY

Nude peep-toe booties

These shoes are so hot that we devoted an entire article just to them and explained why you need a pair. You can get them in casual or dressier varieties, or buy a pair that effortlessly falls in that nice in-between land. You’ll be amazed at how often you reach for this pair of shoes as I can attest that they have become my go-to for luncheons, evenings out and workdays already. Weddings and graduations? You bet.

Fancy flat

Since we’re talking shoes styles we dedicated whole articles to, we wrote about the pointy toe, strappy flat last year. These particular flats still work this year, though they’re not as hot, which is why they’re listed in the “trendy” section, which is all about styles that come and go. That said, having a fancy flat to wear is a lifesaver so many times, no matter the season. So, with the warmer weather, don’t leave all your flat options to your flip flops. Have something a little fancier and your feet will likely be grateful.

Mules

The hottest shoe for this season is the mule. You can purchase it as a flat, a mid heel or a high heel. And, while it certainly is the shoe du jour, it’s also a shoe that when it comes into trend, has remarkable staying power. Expect this fashion to be front and center for a few years.

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