

In our biweekly series, editors share "the item they wear to death," whether it be a basic white tee or a super-trendy jumpsuit. Prepare yourself (and your credit card) for some guilt-free shopping.
Let's be open and honest here: I really don't wear heel heels anymore. I have a few pairs of three-inchers that I keep under my desk for easy access just before meetings, but I don't have the patience or foot stamina to wear them much farther than the walk from my desk to the elevator bank and back. They're so pretty! But most are not practical. Thankfully I have one pair of heels that doesn't fall into this dust-collecting category: my Valentino Tango pumps.
I bought these Valentino Mary Janes nearly five years ago after seeing my former boss at ELLE.com frequently mix and match them with a closetful of outfits. Not only have they held up in the half-decade I've been wearing them thanks to the sturdy patent leather exterior, but they also still garner me compliments almost every time I wear them.
Unlike the heels that live under my desk, the Tango pumps are commute-friendly thanks to the solid two-and-a-half inch block heel and secure ankle strap, which means I can wear them straight from my apartment to the office (plus any stops along the way) without having to do a sidewalk shoe-swap. They're also comfortable. Like, you can take the subway, dash across the street, give a presentation wearing them levels of comfortable. If I walked into Rihanna's New York Fashion Week Fenty show only to discover it wasn't going to start for another hour and would be standing-only whilst wearing these shoes, I wouldn't blink an eye. In fact, that very thing has happened, and I made it out blister-free.
Me and my Tango pumps with Ben Franklin, interviewing Noah Centineo, and during New York Fashion Week.
As for styling them, I wear them every which way for the office: With fancy shorts, cropped trousers, cuffed jeans, and various dresses. I've worn them to important meetings and interviews and after-work events. They're also my go-to party shoe, versatile enough for a cocktail dress or even a gown for a black-tie event. I love having a shoe I can grab out of the closet and know it will instantly upgrade any outfit—so much so that I just bought a second pair in suede from The RealReal. Shop some of my favorite options, below.
For more stories like this, including celebrity news, beauty and fashion advice, savvy political commentary, and fascinating features, sign up for the Marie Claire newsletter.
RELATED STORIES
RELATED STORIES
[editoriallinks id='82eb5760-3b32-4af4-97fd-49e919de239d'][/editoriallinks]
Stay In The Know
Marie Claire email subscribers get intel on fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more. Sign up here.

Sally is the Editor in Chief of Marie Claire where she oversees coverage of all the things the Marie Claire reader wants to know about, including politics, beauty, fashion, and celebs. Holmes has been with Marie Claire for five years, overseeing all content for the brand’s website and social platforms. She joined Marie Claire from ELLE.com, where she worked for four years, first as Senior Editor running all news content and finally as Executive Editor. Before that, Sally was at NYMag.com's the Cut and graduated with an English major from Boston College.
-
There Are More Hidden Messages in the Wales Family Christmas Card Than You Probably Realize
As ever with the royal family, nothing is without symbolism and meaning.
By Rachel Burchfield
-
Kate Middleton Departs from Her Typical Roster of Designers for Winter White Look at Her Christmas Carol Concert
Kate mixed and matched two brands to complete this monochrome look.
By Rachel Burchfield
-
Halle Berry Is a Literal Work of Art in Haute Couture Elie Saab
Berry has a storied history with the designer.
By Rachel Burchfield
-
The 28 Most Iconic Fashion Films, According to Marie Claire Editors
When your closet and your movie queue need a refresh.
By Katie Attardo
-
Red Club X Cartier Is Offering Invaluable Support for the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs
"The best way to predict the future is to create it."
By Sara Holzman
-
Yara Shahidi Joins Forces With Cartier Women's Initiative to Empower Entrepreneurs
"Giving back is essential to existing in the world."
By Sara Holzman
-
Fashion Test Drive: Chloe's Top-Handle Penelope Bag
This eye-catching bag also does good for the planet.
By Sara Holzman
-
Mindy Kaling's Custom Jonathan Simkhai Gown Is a Nod to Chanel Couture
"I feel so confident in this gown."
By Sara Holzman
-
Fashion Test Drive: Isabel Marant's Oskan Moon Bag
"The key word is versatility."
By Sara Holzman
-
What I Wear to Work: Poppy Harlow
The CNN host's key to a great wardrobe? Borrowing from her stylish friends.
By Sara Holzman
-
The Making of Ariana DeBose's Custom Versace Gown
"When I first saw it, I was left speechless."
By Sara Holzman