Vacations are a time for exploring, learning, and experiencing things you never thought possible. So when it comes time to pack your bags and jet off to somewhere new, the last thing you want to fuss over is your wardrobe, least of all your footwear options. Since you’re packing outfits for many different days and completely varying activities, choosing which shoes to bring can be a struggle. If you’re a chronic over-packer, you already know this plight.
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The easiest packing solution is to bring a pair of shoes that goes with everything in your wardrobe — or at least most of it. Sticking to neutral colors like black, brown, gray, white, or navy is always a smart way to go, but metallic and blush tones are also surprisingly practical options. These can be worn with darker colors like black trousers for a fun pop, with denim pants for a more casual activity, or with earthy tones for an unexpected pairing. Also bring classic silhouettes with no bells or whistles — I’m looking at you, sequin lovers.
Related: Here’s the Key to Making Packing Less Stressful
Read on to see our favorite neutral shoes that will go with just about everything in your suitcase.
The Slingback: Madewell Noelle Sandal
This slingback is a straightforward and simple shoe that can go with both jeans and a dress. Nobody will even notice that you wore them two days in a row.
To buy: nordstrom.com, $98
The Loafer: Cole Haan Pinch Lobster Loafer
Nothing looks more polished than a crisp pair of white loafers. These are especially great for a day when your outfit needs to transition from day to night.
To buy: colehaan.com, $180
The Mule: Steve Madden Trace Mule
An effortless slide like this Steve Madden style is the answer to those mild temperature days where it’s not quite hot enough for sandals, but too warm for socks and sneakers.
To buy: nordstrom.com, $70
The Lace-up Sneaker: Keds Ace Leather
Sometimes it’s best to stick with the classics, and Keds are the epitome of a simple and uncomplicated sneaker.
To buy: keds.com, $65
The Wedge: Castañer Carina Canvas Wedge Espadrilles
Wedges are a great heel option for those who want a bit more support and comfort. Pair these espadrille wedges with a wide-leg trouser or a fun summer dress.
To buy: net-a-porter.com, $120
The Woven Shoe: Trotters Liz Loafer
Woven slip-on shoes have just enough detail to keep your ensemble interesting, but the neutral colors that are offered in this style will go with everything that you pack.
To buy: zappos.com, $90
The Slip-on Sneaker: Vans Classic Slip-on
Vans’ slip-on sneakers are popular for a reason: they are uncomplicated and stylish. This nude suede color has more excitement than your average white pair.
To buy: zappos.com, $60
The Boot: Chinese Laundry Finn Bootie
You can never go wrong with a chic and effortless black bootie. The low heel on this pair will make a long day of being on your feet feel a lot more bearable.
To buy: nordstrom.com, $100
The Flat: Nine West Monika
The beauty of a nude shoe is that they draw no attention to your feet, so you don’t have to worry about packing multiple pairs. These also have a padded insole for all-day wear.
To buy: zappos.com, $109
The Dress Shoe: Schutz Kamili Kitten Heels
A black heel will always be appropriate for any occasion with a fancier dress code. The kitten heel on these will keep you upright and pain-free for the long haul.
To buy: shopbop.com, $190
The Slide Sandal: Sam Edelman Gertrude Crisscross Slides
You may not immediately think of silver when you are looking for a neutral sandal, but this color matches just as well with brown or black as it does with bolder colors like red or blue.
To buy: shopbop.com, $80
The Oxford: Everlane Modern Oxford
A smart shoe will pair well with a more office-appropriate outfit for business travelers but also can be worn with jeans or a skirt for a funky daytime look.
To buy: everlane.com, $168
The Mid-heel: Toms Poppy Sandals
Dressy in the front and casual in the back: these Toms heels can be worn during the day with your trousers and cross body bag, but then slip them on with a dress and red lip for an evening out.
To buy: toms.com, $90
