Statement-Making Shoes, 13 Shoes Every Up-and-Coming Career Woman Must Own

Photo 7/13

As important as basics are, every woman needs a pair of look-at-me shoes she's absolutely in love with. Whether it's a bold, bright color or a whimsical print, choose structured silhouettes to keep your shoes "boardroom" rather than "nightclub."

Pictured: Loeffler Randall Poppi Dress Pumps, $350 and Sigerson Morrison Maltee Booties, $495

Similar: Chinese Laundry Area Pumps, $140 and Charles by Charles David Vera Pointy Toe Bootie, $169.

Photo 8/13

Sneak some more flats into your wardrobe with a "borrowed from the boys" pair of Oxfords or smoking slippers. If you work in a conservative work environment, save these for casual Friday and pair them with dark, tailored denim. Pictured are Esquivel Davis Wingtip Oxfords, $600 and J.Crew Georgia Suede Tassel Loafers, $168.

Photo 9/13

The aforementioned casual Fridays are tricky territory when it comes to dressing for the workplace. You want to look casual, but not sloppy. Luckily, sneakers are having a moment in the fashion world, and there are plenty of dressed-up versions to choose from. Look for leather pairs like these Lanvin Metallic Textured Leather Sneakers, $595 (pictured) or these Gap Snakeskin Textured Slip-On Sneakers, $50.

Photo 10/13

When you want the long-legged effect heels give, wedges should be your go-to. While we love the summery look of cork wedges or espadrille-style wedges, a leather pair is much more appropriate for the corner office. The metallic accents on these Balenciaga Studded T-Strap Wedge Sandals, $995, tell people you mean business. For a less spendy option, Vince Camuto Signature Solanna Wedges, $180, in camel leather are extra sophisticated.

Photo 11/13

The barely-there sandal trend has surfaced everywhere lately, and we're not complaining. Ankle strap heels look just as good paired with a business-forward pencil skirt as they do with skinny jeans on the weekend. Look for patterns that act as neutrals, like cheetah print or snakeskin.

Pictured: Joie Jaclyn Leopard-Print Calf Hair Sandal, $295

Similar: Ann Taylor Loft Alissa Animal Print Ankle Strap Heels, $85

You've heard it a dozen times -- dress for the job you want, not the job you have. As a career woman, it's important to have a wardrobe you feel confident and powerful in. But at the same time, you don't want to throw every element of your personal style in the trash for uniform style. To strike the perfect balance, we've compiled a list of the 13 shoes every career woman should have. These shoes complement every outfit in your work wardrobe, are professional and sophisticated, and still leave room for your own style interpretation. Do you need some basic pumps for work -- yes. But who says they can't be snakeskin pumps?

13 Shoes Every Up-and-Coming Career Woman Must Own

The must-have shoes that are sleek, sophisticated, and show you're not afraid to take risks

Statement-Making Shoes

Oxfords & Loafers

Dressed Up Sneakers

Wedges

Ankle Strap Heels

GET FREE SAMPLES