In the winter months, shoe options can be limited. For me, this past winter, it was either black snow boots, brown hiking boots, or black sneakers. But, as spring unfolds and all of the layers of loungewear start to loosen, more and more colorful shoe choices begin to emerge. Without having to worry about slipping on ice and snow, the shoe options seem limitless. While I fully admit that I own way too many shoes, this season’s footwear offerings are tempting me to enlarge my current shoe wardrobe with both neutral and a few out-of-the-box colors. Here are a few shoe shades to contemplate adding and working into your warmer weather apparel.

What black shoes are for winter, tan shoes are for spring. This is the ultimate April and May neutral that is extremely versatile: Think of a tan kitten heel or mule with day dresses, as well as colorful cropped pants and striped shirts. Tan or beige flats can be worn with jeans as easily as workwear, while a tan sandal can ground a number of pastel ensembles. And I love the idea of a tan woven clog with shorts and breezy blouses as we head into summer.

Another great neutral for this year are white shoes. Once considered trendy, white heels, sandals, and sneakers, in particular, are now wardrobe essentials, especially as the temperature rises and flowers start to bloom. It used to be that white sneakers were only acceptable as a “commuter” shoe or for the gym; however, in recent years, chunky white kicks are fashion-forward and functional when paired with everything from tracksuits to business suits. White Mary Jane style flats are an unexpected way to freshen up a black jeans and tee look for spring, while you can never go wrong with a white strappy sandal for a cocktail outfit.

Stepping away from neutrals and into color; nothing says spring like pink! I have my eye on a pair of hot pink athletic slides to punch up my activewear for the season. Pale pink slingbacks will perfectly complement a tea-length dress, or if you’re not so much into heels, consider a coral braided slide sandal. Pink may feel a bit juvenile, but most pink shoes are just plain fun and bring a bit of romance into any look.

On the flip side of pink is navy. This nautical classic pairs beautifully with all the standard spring pastels like pistachio, lavender, and lemon. Try a timeless Dr. Scholl’s or Birkenstock style sandal with navy straps under a peachy shift dress and a lightweight cardigan. Or go with an old-school canvas sneaker in dark blue with a denim skirt and printed sweatshirt for an evening backyard barbeque. Replace your go-to black shoes with navy to refresh your everyday style here this spring.

If you’re looking to really walk on the wild side for the 2nd quarter of 2021 and beyond, consider a pair of multi-colored shoes. Multi-colored footwear is fun because it goes with nothing and therefore goes with everything. If you mostly wear monochromatic or neutral looks, a patterned shoe is an easy way to work in some color, print, and texture without too much risk. Blue jeans and a heathered t-shirt get a little oomph when paired with color block straps on a Teva-style sandal for casual outings. For date night, vamp up your little black dress with an animal printed pump, or step up your style game with rainbow heels, high-waisted jeans, and a gingham printed top.

There’s nothing like new shoes to put a spring in your step. And while it’s still unclear what the summer will hold, you can get a leg up on style with an unexpected jolt of colorful footwear. Or stand your ground in a pair of classic shoes in a chic neutral. Just be sure you have enough to foot the bill for all of your new shoe purchases.