SHE

Shoes can make the look

Nicole Crosbie
For the Argus Leader
Nude ballerina flats, $49 at S.H.U.E.S in downtown Sioux Falls.

Self-proclaimed shoe addict Vanessa VanSurksum owns more than 60 pairs of shoes, and she is on the lookout for additional footwear to add to her collection.

From flats to wedges to heels to flip flops, this mom of three has a diverse array of shoes. With a passion for dressing up and a love of fashion, her closet is full of fun, colorful clothing, too.

“I stay home full-time with my kids, but I don’t want to look like a bum. You will very rarely see me in sweats. I like to dress up and look good,” the 29-year-old says. “I’ve always loved shoes. I don’t wear much jewelry, so shoes are my accessory.”

VanSurksum shared some of her favorite style shoes from S.H.U.E.S by Chelsea’s Boutique in downtown Sioux Falls.

Flats

Flats are VanSurksum’s go-to shoe for everyday wear, but she says they don’t have to be boring.

“I wear flats all the time when I’m at home or when I know I’m going to be walking around because they’re so comfortable, and there are so many fun flats now,” she says. “I love the nude ballerina flat because the tie-up style adds so much zest to the shoe.” It can easily be worn with capris or rolled-up jeans, or it can be dressed up with a skirt.

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The blush tie flats appeal to VanSurksum because they have a pointed toe, which makes her look taller when paired with jeans.

“They’re just a fun shoe,” she says. “I like that they tie and I like that they’re open on the side—that’s really neat.”

Neutral colored flats are VanSurksum’s favorite because they go with anything and are a staple in her closet.

Wedges

“I’m only 5’2’’, so I like shoes with some height because they make me feel more confident,” VanSurksum says. “Wedges are great because they’re easier to walk in. They’re great for date night or a party.”

The black fringe wedge is a favorite of Carly Uthe-Leither, manager at S.H.U.E.S. by Chelsea’s Boutique.

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“We love that the 70’s are back and better than ever,” she says. “We’ve seen a ’70s vibe with clothes and shoes and accessories. The fringe is so fun, and finding a pair of shoes with fringe is a great way to try a trend without being too over the top. People might feel reluctant to buy a fringe jacket, but they can rock the trend by wearing a more subtle fringe shoe.”

VanSurksum is a big fan of the blue cut-out wedge because the pattern and color are fun. “It’s the perfect pastel blue,” she says. “Because it’s not too bright, you can match it with your top or wear a basic color top and really let the shoes pop.”

She typically pairs wedges with shorts or dresses.

Heels

“I’m not a fan of stilettos at all — I can’t walk in them and they remind me of “Clueless” and the ’90s,” VanSurksum says. “If I’m going to wear a heel, it would be a thick one like this nude pump. It’s amazingly comfortable.”

Because they are a neutral color, VanSurksum says she would wear them with skinny jeans, a skirt or even a pair of shorts.

“These would be great for date night,” she says. “They give me a ‘boost up’ and make me feel sexy.”

Booties

“I think everyone should own at least one pair of booties,” VanSurksum says. “They are so versatile and you can wear them during any season.”

The taupe tie booties have fringe and lace up, making the shoe unique.

“These are the perfect summer booties because they are really open and airy,” VanSurksum says. “The fringe is really fun and I love that they tie up.”