Most people pick their outfit first and then scramble for shoes that "go with it." Try flipping that habit — and watch how much easier getting dressed becomes.
Start with the shoe, build upward. If you're reaching for a pair of strappy sandals in a warm tan or brown, you're already telling a story: relaxed, sun-warmed, effortless. From there, reach for earthy tones — terracotta, cream, olive — and let the palette do the work.
Let one item be the statement. If your sandals are interesting (a bold color, a knot detail, a buckle), keep everything else simple. A solid-color midi skirt and a tucked-in tee is all you need. The moment you add a printed top AND statement shoes, you're competing with yourself.
The "one texture contrast" trick. Pair smooth leather sandals with something slightly textured — a waffle-knit, a linen blend, a crochet top. Contrast creates visual interest without trying too hard. Same texture head to toe reads flat in real life and even flatter on camera.
Summer dressing at its best is just knowing when to stop adding things.
Contact
Store Name: Carter & Hayes
Warehouse address: 925 Leavenworth St, San Francisco, CA 94109, USA
Email: support@carterandhayes.com
Phone: +16282010759
Support Hours: Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (EST)
We do our best to reply to your email within 1 business day.