There's no shoe that says "Summer" quite like an espadrille, especially in a bright color or bold pattern.

1) Strappy turquoise, Target, $28
2) Cap-toe coral pump, The Webster at Target, $39.99
3) Red and blue nautical, MIA via DSW, $39.94
4) Rope-strap coral , Lulu's, $29
5) Floral print, Old Navy, $29.94
6) Yellow with bow trim , Lulu's, $33
7) Pink and orange color block , Charlotte Russe, $35.80
8) Orange ankle-strap, Aldo, $80

I remember when I was in middle school and if you were wearing neutral shoes, you had two choices: black or brown. And you BETTER not wear black and brown together :-) These days, not only do I wear black and brown together, but when I want a neutral shoe that will let my outfit be the spotlight, my choices expand far beyond black and brown, especially in the summer. Nudes, grays, taupes, metallics...they all add a bit of interest while not stealing the show.

1) Taupe suede, Aldo, $50
2) Ankle-strap straw, Forever21, $32.80
3) Gray with a pop of yellow, Target, $28
4) Cream crochet, Steve Madden via DSW, $59.95
5) Gold t-strap, Steve Madden, $89.95
6) Reptile-textured ankle strap, Gianni Binni via Dillard's, $69.99

The great thing about wedges is that they are one essential that you will have no trouble finding; the problem is that you might find yourself so inundated with so many different pairs that it's hard to sift through the masses and find that one wedge that is perfect for you. Hopefully, this guide will make the search a little less intimidating.

Cognac wedge sandals are the casual version of the nude pump: They go with everything and you will wear them to death (making up for the rather steep prices of some of these).

1) Braided leather, Aldo, $80
2) Espadrille gladiator, ASOS, $73.06
3) Strappy seventies-style, Steve Madden, $79.98
4) Woven leather with sculptural heel, Gianni Binni via Dillard's, $89.95
5) Cork heel ankle strap, Forever21, $26.80
6) Criss-cross strap, Aldo, $100

*On header: Rhinestone studded t-strap, Victoria's Secret, $68

Love the unexpected edge cut-outs add to an otherwise demure floral sheath...makes me want to throw a garden party!

*Dress: Floral with cut-outs, ASOS, $81.81
*Bag: Nude oversized clutch, Zara, $49.90
*Sandals: Cork/espadrille wedge, Steve Madden, $62.98
       -- currently only available in sizes 9-10, check out these as an alternative
*Rings: Thin gold bands, etsy.com, $8 each
*Earrings: Dimpled gold hoops, Forever21, $3.80