Black Pumps

"Black Pumps Are Your Shoe Closet's Indispensables"

Black pumps are wardrobe essentials that go stylishly with various clothing styles, from trendy jumpsuits to casual jeans, sophisticated dress pants to pretty cocktail dresses. Adding high heel pumps can turn the most casual outfit to an ultra-chic look. So if you feel you need a dash of glam then heeled pumps are the way to go!

Courtesy of Nine West/ Zappos

Let me just say that they're your indispensable. They make your legs looks long and lean, and are also appropriate for multiple occasions. It doesn't matter if you rarely attend formal occasions or if you usually wear your sneakers to work. You'll need them to prepare yourself for those inevitable weddings/baptism/dates.

If you can only have one pair of high heels in your closet, then black pumps have to be it!

What Pump Styles Should I Buy?

Your choice of pumps should be completely based on your personal preference and comfort, and not least your body figure. If you love wearing heels I also advise you to secure at least one pair for professional and another pair for casual/evening occasions.

The black pumps for work should be low-key and the other pair trendier. If you want a pair of all-around pumps I suggest going for a matte texture, 2-3", average heel width and a slightly rounded toe.

Your legs

If you want to look your best then it's very important to get the scaling right here. Look at your calves and ankles. Are they slim and dainty? Muscular? Look for a pair that go hand in hand with the size of your legs.

Courtesy of Franco Sarto (left) and Michael Kors (right)

If your legs are very slim, thick blocks of platform pumps can make them look like twigs. You should go for a slimmer style (slim heel and sole). I'm not saying you have to avoid platforms, just don't overdo it unless you want your legs to look bigger/smaller :-)

If your legs are on the muscular side, blocky pumps are best suited for you. Look for platform soles, thicker heels (ex. cone heel, wedge heel, etc.).

Heel height

It depends on what you're comfortable with, but the minimum should be 2"-2 1/2" if you want them to be versatile and be classified as classy. We want them to have enough height to really slim your calves and achieve that glamorous-chic look.

Courtesy of Naturalizer

Your choice of heel height also depends on your workplace dress code. But I recommend sturdier and lower heel height for extra comfort.

Update the look

There are many version of the black pump, so if you already have a pair of plain ones and want more of the same styles - add one or two extra pair that are trendier for a stylish fashion statement.

Try various textures (ex. matte, shiny patent, suede, glitter, etc.), decorative accents (ex. studs, sequins, etc.) and not least different heel styles such as wedge, cone and stiletto.

Courtesy of (from left to right) Just Fab, Steve Madden, Kenneth Cole, Geox

Another classic black pumps style is peep toe. It's glamorous and flirty but inappropriate for conservative office work. However they're great for casual and creative work environments.

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How Do I Wear Black Pumps?

The possibilities are endless. They'll glam up any outfit in an instant. My favorite look consists of chino ankle pants and a casual shirt. Let me give you a couple of outfit ideas:

Casual

Casual date, lunch with your friends, meeting the in-laws, family reunions

Wear the pumps with denim jeans, denim shorts, mini shorts, jumpsuit, you name it. To keep it chic and avoid looking tarty, provide coverage on your top. For example, instead of going for a revealing top - opt for a blouse to go with your short bottom.

Courtesy of Fantasy Jewelry Box (necklace), Welikefashion.com (top),
Goldsign (jeans), Modcloth (bag), Nine West (pumps)

Ladylike

Work, job interviews, Ladies' Luncheon, religious occasions

The pumps go with pants, skirts and dresses. You can even include tights with a subtle design (eg. lace floral) or in a solid color for your office work outfit.

Courtesy of Helmut Lang (blouse), J Crew (skirt),
Welikefashion.com (bag), Nine West (pumps)

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Shop Black Pumps Online

Unless you're planning on splurging on a pair of Jimmy Choos or Louboutins, another affordable mid price-range alternative are Steve Madden and Michael Kors. You can find a vast range of high heel pumps on online shopping stores such as Zappos, Endless and Heels

Shopping tip for international readers: Expensive worldwide shipping? US store doesn't ship to your country? Save up to 50% off retail price in your home country and gain access to the goodies. Try a mail forwarding service!