Why are classic black pumps a wardrobe staple? The number one reason is they never go out of style. Trends come and go, but a mid-high heel black leather pump with a classic pointed toe has been en vogue for decades. On top of that swell fact, they match about 80% of your wardrobe. Really, they do. From your power suit, to your LBD, to your favorite pair of designer jeans, a classic black pump makes the whole ensemble look chic and put together.
Bottom line: invest in the highest quality pair your budget can handle. While I lust after something in the Choo-boutin range, my reality is about a quarter of that price, so I invested in a pair of Coach "Alison" black leather pumps. I consider them one of my most savvy purchases. What makes a quality shoe better than it's bargain-basement priced cousin? Comfort, quality, durability, and style. A high quality shoe is just as comfy after a 10 hour day as when you first put it on and it can last decades if cared for properly. Once you give it a try, you'll be a believer.
Ready to fork over the big bucks for a top of the line classic black pump? Look no further than the simply named "Leather Pump" from Manolo Blahnik. This is the classic black pump. Crafted from super soft, premium leather inside and out and sporting the signature Blahnik silhouette, this pump will serve you well for many years.
→ Buy the Manolo Blahnik Black Pumps, $575.00, at bergdorfgoodman.com.
Looking for something a little more affordable, but still in the top tier of quality footwear? For less than half the price of a new pair of Manolos you can pick up the chic "Rouge" Pump from Bruno Magli. A good option for those of us who tend to be a little rough on shoes thanks to a stacked, rather than covered leather, heel.
→ Buy the Bruno Magli Rouge Black Pump, $173.65, at shoes.com
These sleek "Daisy" Pumps from Stuart Weitzman represent a chance to get a high quality pair of classic black pumps at a very reasonable price. While supplies last, these all leather pumps are yours at 33% off retail price thanks to the wonder known as Bluefly.com. The shopping gods are smiling.
→ Buy the Stuart Weitzman Daisy Pump, $199.00 (was $298.00), at bluefly.com.
For moderately priced quality shoes you can't top Nine West. These "Austin" pumps feature an all leather upper coupled with a super durable manmade sole for a shoe that is both chic and practical.
→ Buy the Nine West "Austin" Black Pump, $75.00, at zappos.com; shipping is free.
There is something special about a Steve Madden shoe that makes it incredibly comfortable. I've heard that it has something to do with a more supportive arch, but I can't be certain. What I do know is that every pair of Steve Maddens I've owned have been super comfy, no matter the heel height. Sure, they're not Manolos, but for $90 it's hard to go wrong.
→ Buy the Steve Madden "Intrude" Pump, $89.99, at stevemadden.com.
Looking for an entry-level classic black pump that won't set you back a paycheck, but has the same classic look as the big boys? Try out the "Averie" Pump from Gabriella Rocha. The look is classic chic, but the price is oh-so-affordable.
→ Buy the Gabriella Rocha "Averie" Pump, $69.00, at zappos.com; shipping is free.
Editor's Note: this post was last updated on 4/14/12 to correct outdated links and label sold-out products.
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