Threadvice: White and Cream Shoes

Ali (@marshcinquefoil) asks how to choose, wear, and pair white and cream shoes

I met with Ali (@marshcinquefoil) recently to do a quick wardrobe consultation while she visited NYC. I recommended to her, as I do all my clients, that she try to decide on a color palette in which to operate. What colors does she already own? What colors is she drawn to? What colors does she want to wear more of, and what colors does she want to avoid?

Deciding on a color palette is a process — one you’re probably already working through to some extent or another, whether you’re aware of it or not. To truly refine your palette, you’ll just need some intention and time.

Ali’s Question

Ali recently posted on Twitter, referring to the Carel Banana Slingbacks:

I'm drawn to the ivory but I haven't worked out what my wardrobe colour scheme is supposed to be yet (I prefer cool tones generally) (but these are so vintage classic cute) (and could be paired with bright white) (and they're on sale) […] I'm just wondering if the ivory(?)/cream vs. bright white distinction matters and which will pair with more outfits […] like, I prefer white tops on myself, so does that mean I should go with white shoe?

The Banana Slingback Maryjane by Carel, in Ivory and White

Ali,

I run into this problem too! Because I like both white and cream, and use both in my wardrobe. I would say, literally just pick one and see where it leads you, because you’ll be able to use both/either if you have both cream and white in your closet. If you don’t, next time you buy an accessory or clothing item, try to buy it in the matching white or cream. Consider a belt or bag in a similar shade. I also find that patent pairs really well with the gloss of enamel jewelry. A white/cream enamel cuff or ring, for example, can make the shoes feel cohesive in your outfit. Indeed, matching your accessories to your shoes is an easy way to integrate a color into an outfit that might otherwise feel patchy or lacking coordination.

Elsa Peretti’s Bone Cuff for Tiffany in White Finish Over Copper; Jimmy Choo’s Emmie clutch in Latte

I mix creams and whites all the time, and I wouldn’t overthink doing so too much. They’re just different shades of the same color at the end of the day! Maybe it helps to think of cream similar to a tan/nude, and true/optic white analogous to black, because it really pops. Use and mix them accordingly

Also like black, unless you’re wearing suiting, I think mixing “different” blacks is generally fine and can add texture to an outfit. Same with whites and creams.

Don’t forget that patterns with cream/white in them will coordinate nicely, too. Which is to say, you don’t have to pair solid white with solid white — or any color you choose to integrate into your color palette. Patterns and prints can add texture and visual interest, while tying together otherwise disparate colors and pieces.

Lastly, I want to note that patent leather easily absorbs color transfer and, in my experience, it’s basically impossible to get out. This is especially important for whites/creams/pastels. Be sure to store the shoes so they’re not touching other leathers and fabrics in dark/bright colors — preferably in their dust bags! Remove scuffs and dirt regularly and as quickly as possible.