When I think about what to wear in the morning, I don't go first to the dress. I start with the shoes. Crazy? Maybe. But to me, it's the best place to start if you want to feel confident all day long. Whether you choose to show your ladylike prowess in pointed-toe pumps, or you want to channel your inner badass by wearing studded boots, shoes really are an indicator of your mood, your style, and your personality. (Not to mention your schedule—if you rock 8" stilettos while running around after children all day, I both fear and applaud you.) Yes, shoes are about who you are, but more importantly, they're about who you want to be. (Or at least, who you want to be for that day.) I'm such a firm believer in the "shoes first" idea that Marie Claire has created an entire franchise around it. Twice a year, our magazine and website go wild with shoe inspiration. (Hey, it's no secret that we have a shoe fetish.) But, of course, we want to inspire you with ideas , not trends—you're smart, sexy, and confident, so we know you'll take what you like and apply it in your own unique way. That's what we love about you most. A few things I think you should know about shoes, if you don't already: They're the first thing delivered to stores from a designer's new collection, so they're the freshest merchandise you can find They're the one accessory you can buy that will put you on trend without having to spend so much on the rest of your wardrobe The beauty of shoes is that you don't have to be a certain dress size, and if you're having a particularly tight-jeans day, it doesn't matter—the shoe will still fit Shoes are fun. Shoes are transformative. And shoes can change your life. (Just ask Cinderella.) You should also check out: Our "Shoes First" hub! The Best Celebrity Shoes of the Week An Ode to Carrie Bradshaw's Epic Shoe Game The History of Man Heels