I’m clumsy. I literally have think about each step I take so as not to fall in a manhole on the street or trip and stumble over raised sidewalk. So when I stumbled (and fell) as I walked through the door in my 4 ½ inch heels one late Thursday evening, it was just another normal night—until I realized my right black snakeskin pump had gained puncture wounds. I was alarmed, mortified, and upset. Nevermind the fact that three large bruises immediately appeared on my shins, and that I had a bloody scrape on my knee: MY FAVORITE BLACK PUMPS WERE RUINED.

Finding the perfect black pumps is like attempting to find the Holy Grail and I groaned at the thought of trying to replace my perfect shoes. I love colorful shoes, but more often than not I rely on my black pumps to complete my outfit. In the fall those pumps were worn with patterned tights and until their demise three weeks ago, those pumps were worn barelegged on a date night in San Francisco (Rest In Peace, sacred black pumps). Admission: Even though I own at least 15 pairs of black shoes, I am attempting to cover the holes of my favorite black pumps with shoe clips.

The Myth: With so many shoe options available these days it seems lame to rely on a pair of black shoes as a closet staple.

The Truth: Year after year someone claims <insert color here> as the new black, and women rush out to purchase the color of the year in the pump style. But honestly, these colors aren't reliable as a pair of plain' ol' black pumps. Because there are so many types of shoe options, you don’t have to purchase a run in the mill type of black shoes. Pumps come in a variety of styles: slingback, peeptoe, close toe, round toe, and so on. Black pumps are a closet staple because they can be worn to work, church, a job interview, or on a date. Just like your favorite black skirt or dress, black pumps offer a sense of comfort, stability, and reliability. When all else fails you know you can rely on a black dress and black heels to help you make it through another day.

Tip:

• Write down the style number and name of your favorite black pumps. If you ever suffer a sad loss like I did, your shoes will be easier to replace.

Pictured:

1. Michael by Michael Kors Pressley

2. Jimmy Choo Lyon

3. Nine West Hambert

4. Madden Girl Kambert

Anna Molinari dress on The Outnet

Anna Molinari black skirt on The Outnet

Newport News Blouse

Tomorrow: Statement Shoes

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