ISO the Ultimate Classic and Versatile Shoe

[Beth]

I am on a quest to find the most versatile shoe.  It's one thing for a shoe to go from day to evening, but completely another for it to go season to season and year to year.  It's those classic cuts that every designer uses as a blueprint, they are the carbon of the shoe universe (so to speak).  It's easy to say what is a classic shoe, but it's a difficult quest to find said shoe in a purchasable form.

What specific shoe in existence do you consider to be THE classic shoe/cut?

[Lori]

The vamp. Not too dressy for day, not too casual for evening; not too hot for summer, and not too cold for winter.

[sam]

I'd say a pointy-toe(but not extreamly long points) slingback with a 1-3" stacked or 'covered' heel. Pointed toes look great under pants (and can add an authoritative edge to your business look), the slingback helps it work with skirts (especially mid length ones), they suit dresses, cocktail wear, denim, and even evening wear.  I'd also suggest getting the shoe in a lovely leather (suede or hair calf could be fun, but generally not quite as versatile), or an exotic skin: like stingray, snake, or lizzard, this will 'jazz' it up a little, while still being subtle and wearable.

[Lori]

I have a pair kind of like the one in the second photo. They are raffia and black patent leather. They're smashing, but not very comfortable. They always feel like they are about to fall off my feet. I don't wear them in the winter--not enough coverage.

[DoraLong]

For me there is but one choice for THE classic- the Carolyne, by the Maestro Manolo.



Short of swimming or working in the garden, I have never found a place or occasion I couldn't wear them.. but I am after all a woman of very simple tastes. 

What might the Manolo's opinion be on this subject?  I would be most gratified to hear his superfantastic choice, if he would grace us with his thoughts on the matter..