More and more lately, I’ve been seeing posts about the capsule wardrobe, which is essentially a small collection of items made up of versatile, interchangeable garments that you can mix and match and create 3,765 outfits. I attribute its resurgence to the Marie-Kondo-style trimming of the fashion fat and parring down your closet to the joy-giving essentials – black pants, a pencil skirt, well worn jeans, the neutral pump. It’s your closet, cut back to a simple shell of clothing that can be worn every day and every season with a few minor changes. Hmmm… an excellent idea in theory. However, you’ve probably noticed, I don’t really do minimalist…
Truth be told, I’ve never really ascribed to the idea of a capsule wardrobe. Mostly because I don’t believe a wardrobe is strictly utilitarian. I believe in the statement shoe, the bedazzled cardigan, the one of a kind skirt. Don’t get me wrong – I definitely believe in only keeping things that bring me joy (Marie Kondo and I are on the same page there). It just so happens that extra brings me joy. Uniqueness brings me joy. Individuality. Dresses so memorable that they pose a great challenge to style them in such a way that they look completely different.
And yet, all of that went out the window when I met the Capsule Sandal from Milina Footwear. I may not believe in a capsule wardrobe. But, boy I do believe in these shoes…
Way back when, when I was a fledgling vintage enthusiast, I was slowly making all of the mistakes the newbies make. Not knowing how to spot true vintage and getting scammed, paying far too much, getting swept up in the acquisition frenzy and scrambling to get my hands on as much as possible without realizing the importance of taking a breath. So, when I was stumbling through the process of starting my vintage wardrobe, Capsule Vintage was one of the first shops I came upon. And I learned the true value in curating a collection of sellers who you knew and trusted. Who would measure things accurately and price honestly. Many of my favorite dresses came from Sonja’s shop over the years (I even featured her as one of my SpotLight On shops back in 2015).
Earlier this year, Sonja started posting about her latest sartorial adventure – which was to bring vintage inspired footwear to the modern generation. As someone who loves the vintage style but boasts modern day sized feet, I immediately signed up for their Kickstarter. I looked forward to the IG posts that slowly trickled into my feed as these 1970’s inspired sandals started to become a reality. Offered in black, white, or brown, I placed my pre-order for the black and patiently waited through production – if there were hiccups and stressors along the way (which I’m sure their were), Sonja kept her cool. But, she kept us posted on the entire process, which only served to build up my excitement.
When my Capsule Sandals arrived – packaged neatly and carefully wrapped in tissue – I was in awe. Made of Italian leather, with a reclaimed wooden wedge, these truly are the shoes that go with everything. I ordered mine in my regular size (US 9) and they fit perfectly. They have a black leather upper and a modest v-shaped peep toe, and even have padding in the vamp to keep my feet happy as I race between my daily meetings. There’s a leather heel strap and delicate ankle ties (which miraculously STAY TIED. The number of shoes with an ankle tie that I have to tie and retie throughout the day…). One of my best friends literally wants to rip off my feet every time she sees me. I think her only restraint comes from the fact that we’re not the same size….
I have to say – these might be the most comfortable shoes I have ever owned. And my feet are very sensitive. Overly sensitive. Prone to diva behavior, my tootsies resist change with a vengeance and scowl at me with each new pair of shoes I bring into the fold. Reason being – any pair of new shoes for me usually means a blister or 3 on the first few wears. Despite my best efforts at resistance (blister sticks, preemptive band aids, those mini sock things), my feet will invite blisters in for tea. Make them scones. It became a bit of a right of passage for me – where I must suffer for my footwear. However, miraculously, nary a blister graced my ankle from the minute I pulled these sandals out of the box. The soft, supple leather molded to my feet. From the moment we met, it was as if these sandals whispered to my lower extremities, “Don’t worry, we’ve got you.”
As the self-proclaimed Gal of Grandiose, I loved the Capsule Sandal for its simplicity. From the simple arch of the back strap and gentle wooden wedge. I knew immediately they would fit in amongst my penchant for the outlandish. Standing in stark relief against a backdrop of color and glitter, proud and unapologetic in their perfect minimalism.
The Capsule Sandal retails for $197.00 and is available through the Milina Footwear website. They are offered in size 5 up through 11, which is an incredibly generous size range. It comes in black, white, and tan color ways (though I heard a rumor that color is a comin’!). I’ve definitely got my eye on the white (and if we’re being honest, may just scoop them up in every color they ever produce).
In addition to getting to wear these amazing shoes, I love that I am supporting an amazing entrepreneurial rockstar. I find it so inspiring that Sonja had a vision, and through a whole lot of grit and hard work, made it a reality. Being married to a self-employed app developer means I understand better than most how many ups and downs come with running a business. It’s hard and fraught with instability, but can bring a satisfaction and joy that nothing else can. And if I can use my fashion dollars to support someone’s dream, I’m all in.
So, have you succumbed to these amazing shoes yet???
xoxo
Outfit Details:
Dress: Sweet Life Vintage (similar modern or vintage here, here, & here)
Braided Headband: Madison Braids
Necklace: street fair (similar)
Handbag: Looks Like Summer
Capsule Sandal in black: Milina Footwear
Lip Color: Dior Rouge 634
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Please note, I was not given any compensation for this review. I purchased these shoes because I believe in Sonja and her mission and wanted to support an amazing entrepreneur I have been privileged to know over the years. I always provide my honest opinion of any item I’m reviewing, regardless of whether it was sent to me as a courtesy item or if I purchased it myself. In addition, this post may contain affiliate links. This means that if you click and/or make a purchase through certain links or ads on this site, I may make a commission from that click and/or purchase at no cost to you, which helps with the day-to-day running costs of my blog.