Number 7: A perfect pair of black pumps (extra credit for Manolo’s)

Yes, buying shoes for someone can be challenging. But what matters with this gift is the look and the label. And no one can have too many pairs of elegant black pumps. Before you buy, scour her closet to see what she’s already got that might be similar, get the size and start shopping. Remember, Manolo Blahniks’s are marvelous, Jimmy Choo’s are too and Christian Louboutin is always in.

Frankly, some of these pumps are so perfect it brings a tear to our eyes. Take these classics by Manolo at Neiman-Marcus for $525, a patent leather Mary Jane version, a satin mid-heel halter; at Barney’s there is a suede pair on sale for $340 and a satin patent duo for $585.

You also cannot go wrong with the other two famous shoe designers. Jimmy Choo has a beautiful pair of patent pumps at Net-a-Porter for $560 and another leather pair on sale for $402.50. Christian Louboutin shoes are beautiful too, like this elegant low-cut pair with his signature red soles for $550 or some slingbacks for $620.

If you can’t spring for these high-end pumps, study their style and find something closely resembling it, like these Calvin Kleins for $98 or these Jessica Simpson black patent pumps for $69, both at Dillard’s.

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