Sensible Spring Shoes and Handbags

Cole Haan’s ZerøGrand Oxford ($200, colahaan.com) combines comfortable, cushiony soles with stylish suede. For work or play. Shown here in Silver Cloud, it’s available in about 15 other colors.

PeeWee low-heel sandals from Stuart Weitzman have extra padding under the insole to cushion the bottom of your foot. (All Weitzman heels are graded to maintain a comfortable pitch.) Black patent leather says spring. ($335, stuartweitzman.com).

These pale pink loafers from Everlane are sold out. The good news is that this sleek, made-in-Italy versatile shoe comes in seven other colors. $170, everlane.com.

I’m a sucker for these menswear-inspired, high-gloss leather loafers with lug sole and tassel. Yes, they’re pricey. $475, stuartweitzman.com.

It’s hard to beat Aquatalia for durability and good looks, like this laser-cut leather slip-on with white molded sole. Also available in black or navy. $395, aquatalia.com.

Vince Camuto’s cut-out lace wedge sandal are an easy-to-wear take on the popular gladiator style. $129.95, nordstrom.com.

Adorable blue suede moccasin-like sneakers to pair with cuffed jeans or midi pleated skirt. $159, http://alessandragold.myshopify.com.

A summer vacation must, Blu Kicks canvas slip-ons are machine washable. Removable insoles with arch support, yay. Lots of fun colors available. $59, blukicks.com.

Aptly named the Transport Tote. Ideal for schlepping your paperwork to a meeting. Long enough to sling over your shoulder, but short enough to carry as a top handle. An inside zip pocket to stash keys, phone and wallet. $168, madewell.com.

Backpacks have come a long way. Take this one in shiny black quilted nylon. Practical and trendy for streetwear, back and forth from the gym or far-flung travel. $245, mzwallace.com.

Add texture to your ensemble with this raffia clutch for casual days when you don’t need to carry much. $89.50, massimodutti.com.

A handsome and roomy terra-cotta leather bag that comes with an adjustable shoulder strap. $99, zara.com.

This sleek cinch bag meets the requirements of even the strictest minimalists. $295, cuyana.com. And, Cuyana recently opened a pop-up shop in Georgetown (1249 Wisconsin Ave. NW). Stop in to check out their other offerings.

A feel-good, look-good purchase. This sisal, hand-woven tote is made from fibers from a plant that grows in Kenya. Profits go to support African families in economically depressed regions. $98, urbanoutfitters.com.

PAGING THROUGH a recent issue of a fashion magazine, I found this advice helpful: You don’t have to overhaul your wardrobe for spring and summer. Just update with some well-chosen accessories. Coincidentally, a couple of pairs of shoes /sandals and a handbag are just what my closet called out for. But I wasn’t prepared to pay the stratospheric prices so many designer shoes and bags demand.  My goal was new shoes I could walk several city blocks in and a handbag to comfortably accommodate my cell phone, keys, wallet and a lipstick.

Hint, hint, a stylish bag could be just the perfect Mother’s Day gift for that special woman in your life.

See photos above for the options I found most appealing.

— Janet Kelly
Janet Kelly is the editor of MyLittleBird.com. Read more about Janet here.
She last posted about local Cleveland Park boutique Refine.