You’ve found the perfect outfit but can’t figure out what shoes to go with them. It’s a dilemma many women face daily. So, what’s the big secret to finding the perfect pair? It all traces back to the vamp of your shoe. But what is the vamp of a shoe, and why does it matter? The vamp of your shoe is the upper section of where your shoe ends at the top of your foot, as seen in the photo below.
On running shoes and other athletic shoes, you will find the vamp in the middle of the upper part of your shoe. The vamp usually ends before the laces begin and sometimes will include the toebox. In addition, the shoe vamp helps keep your foot in place by supporting the area.
However, it also can have a significant effect on how an outfit looks on you—knowing which shoes to wear with what clothes can make a big difference in the overall appearance. While we know it’s important to wear what we feel most comfortable in; it’s also nice to know what pairs best with our favorite dress or pants. Lucky for you, I lay it all out for you and get to the bottom of why the shoe vamp matters.
Why Does the Shoe Vamp Matter?
While you may have lived your life not knowing what a shoe vamp is, it does serve a purpose, and your feet will thank you for having one. The vamp will give your foot a secure feeling, and the perforations allow for the desired airflow. In addition, those looking to have longer, leaner legs will want to pay close attention to the vamp of their shoe.
If you are tall like me, 5’11 to be exact, then you may not feel the need to add inches to your height. However, I’m all for shoes that give me a leaner look, which is why I pay attention to what shoes I pair with my clothes. It’s no secret that you can’t always throw a random pair of shoes with your outfit.
It’s important to note that shoe vamps don’t always cover your entire foot, as with stilettos. Since the vamp helps provide support, a lack of complete coverage won’t always offer a comfortable fit. However, we all know we don’t put on a pair of stilettos for a comfortable night on our feet. If you are still wondering what is the vamp of a shoe, I break down every tidbit you could possibly want to know.
How to Choose the Perfect Vamp
When it comes to the vamp of your shoe, you will want to pay attention to whether it has a low or high vamp. Don’t worry. You don’t have to bring a measuring tape the next time you go shoe shopping. On the contrary, once you learn which shoes fall into each category, you will be a shoe vamp pro in no time. Here’s everything you would need to know about what makes a shoe have a low or high vamp.
Low Vamp
A low vamp shoe does not provide complete coverage of the foot and usually only covers the toe area. If you want to add some length to your legs while wearing a skirt or dress, you will want to opt for a low vamp. The low vamp shoes can give the illusion of long, leaner legs, but you need to make sure to pair them with the right outfit. Ballet flats, knee-high boots, or pumps are considered low vamp shoes and work well with any shorter dresses and skirts. In addition, knee-high boots go well over jeans or leggings. Knee-highs are considered low vamp because they have an unbroken line from the toe to the knees.
Take a look at this pair of my ballet flats. These snazzy cheetah flats don’t cover my whole foot and instead cut off after my toes. I love wearing these low vamp shoes with capris or a nice pair of denim jeans.
I also love wearing my high boots over jeans or even leggings. You know those days where you have been lounging in leggings and don’t want to change to leave the house? Throw on your favorite boots and they will transform your outfit in no time.
A shoe with a low vamp is your key to making capris, and other cropped pants look good. Unfortunately, the cropped look can make your legs look less than their stellar self, so make sure to pair them with ballet flats or a pair of heels. Either way, you will want to avoid wearing high vamp shoes with any type of cropped pants, including Bermuda shorts.
In addition, any accessories or decorations are considered part of the vamp. Finally, stay away from gladiator heels if you desire to look taller. They won’t do you the justice you and your outfit deserve.
High Vamp
A high vamp covers your whole foot like a loafer or a sneaker. It sometimes will go all the up to your ankle. You should opt for a high vamp shoe for longer dresses, skirts, or trousers. Wearing high vamp shoes can help shorten the length of your legs if extra height is not something you are after. While shoes with a high vamp do better with longer clothing, they also pair well with a mini skirt or shorts. You want to avoid them with anything that hits around the knee.
When it comes to pairing high vamp shoes, I tend to wear my cute slip-ons with a pair of trousers or even a sporty dress. I’m a mom of three little ones, so I usually opt for what is the most comfortable, while still trying to be a bit stylish. Let’s be honest. We don’t always have time to dress to the nines.
In addition, wearing a shoe with a high vamp will protect your feet from injury. If you are prone to injury in your feet, you will want to steer away from low vamp shoes. Your doctor will likely ask you what type of shoes you are wearing if you often complain about foot pain. While stilettos are snazzy, they shouldn’t be worn on a daily basis.
Double Vamp vs. Single Vamp
To dive deeper into the meaning of a shoe vamp, it’s good to know the difference between a double vamp and a single vamp. A double vamp has two layers of fabric around your foot while a single vamp only has one. Shoes with a double vamp provide extra protection and support; however, you may not find yourself needing one unless you are on your feet most of the day. Certain work boots will likely offer a double vamp to ensure your feet are well-protected. The shoes you wear for a night out on the town or for a job interview will be a single vamp.
FAQ about the Vamp of a Shoe
What is the vamp made of?
The vamp of a shoe is usually made of soft, breathable materials since they require some elasticity. In addition, there are perforations to allow for airflow. An exception to this is work boots. The vamp is sturdier and thicker with heavy-duty boots to provide extra protection. This is also where you are more likely to find a double vamp.
What is a leather vamp?
Another design to take note of is a leather vamp. You likely will find a leather vamp in sturdier shoes instead of the more breathable fabric. There will be a piece of leather to form the front upper part of a shoe in this case. Leather vamps provide extra protection, meaning you won’t find them in your favorite pair of stilettos.
What is a shoe vamp stretcher?
As the name says, a shoe vamp stretcher is made to help stretch your shoe to fit better. Also referred to as a shoe insert stretcher, the handy tool gives more flexibility when walking by lifting the area above your foot. Users should note that stretchers tend to work better on leather shoes, but the handy device is built to work on any pair of shoes. Finally, make sure to follow the directions completely for the best results.
Final Thoughts
Every fashion rule comes with an exception, but understanding what the vamp of your shoe is will help when putting together an outfit. Knowing the difference between low and high vamp will allow you to look your best and most comfortable. With the vamp sitting on the upper section of your shoe, you can choose whether you get full coverage or partial. Finally, remember, at the end of the day, you make the outfit. Not your clothes.
