There are some things luxurious investments are choices, much like choosing soda over water or spending savings on a vacation when you should be paying off student loans. However, the black pump, much like the little black dress is one investment that just cannot be overlooked.

Net-A-Porter 

These Christian Louboutin Miminette 70mm Pumps are a perfect example of how an investment piece doesn’t have to be boring. The patent leather and amazing comfort that comes along with these small heels are amazingly understated, but still chic. Of course you could pick up a pair of patent leather pumps from a non-name designer from Target, Wal-Mart or even DSW, but will someone stop you on the street or at a job interview and say “Where in the world did you get those shoes?”

These shoes are available at Net-A-Porter for $595. They are 3 inches (hence the 77 mm in the name for all you Americans) and have the signature red soles of all Christian Louboutin heels.

For more information on why to wear expensive heels and why to invest in them check out this blog entry.

Ashley Shute spends eight hours a day working as a blue jean and t-shirt wearing community organizer in San Antonio. The other 16 hours are dedicated to dreaming about and shopping for the latest luxury fashions. Her style icon is Jacqueline Kennedy; classic, clean, and always professional. You will never find a fake bag in her closet and she wants a collection of Manolo Blahnik shoes before she turns 30.

Cocktails, fundraisers, weddings, formals. They don’t stop just because the calendar says “Summer.” So, if your planner is filling up fast and you’re at a loss as to what to wear to these events, don’t fret! The Little Black Dress can definitely be worn in the summer. Just be careful!

Pick the Right Fabric!

A silk, a jersey, a cotton. These are all great fabrics for the summer and they’re even better for a little black dress. In the Fall/Winter season the LBD is great in a cashmere or wool, but wow would that be hot! Add some extra beading to the fun, light, and airy fabric and you’ll be set! For example, this Nanette Lepore Cleopatra Colorblock dress. The cutout detail is super funky and the dropped waist is absolutely stunning. The color blocked sleeves are an extra fun too. The dress is $395.

Neiman Marcus 

Fit

Go for a fun fit. Something body hugging, strapless, sundress-y…it can work! Don’t forget that the summer means that there are no rules! Fun, summer, parties, let’s go! Try this La Rok  Tulip Petal Dress with the fun skirt and comfortable top it’s a go for many events.

Neiman Marcus 

Accessorize!

“Don’t wear a black dress to that wedding! It’s summer!” That’s what i heard earlier this week while picking out a dress for a wedding I have to attend later this month. But why not? Yes, it’s summer, but, if you put some bright earrings, some awesome neon heels and an even better headband why should you not go with black? It’s like always betting on black…it’s always a winner. Accessorizing is the way to go with the DVF One-Shoulder Jersey Dress. It’s super versatile and with those chic heels or flashy earrings this dress will be the talk of the dance floor.

Neiman Marcus 

Ashley Shute spends eight hours a day working as a blue jean and t-shirt wearing community organizer in San Antonio. The other 16 hours are dedicated to dreaming about and shopping for the latest luxury fashions. Her style icon is Jacqueline Kennedy; classic, clean, and always professional. You will never find a fake bag in her closet and she wants a collection of Manolo Blahnik shoes before she turns 30.