As most of you know, while I talk a high-fashion game, my style is pretty classic at heart. As my best friend is forever mocking me for, give me a cardigan, a pair of jeans and a great ballet flat, and I’m a happy girl.

I’ve been in the market for the perfect nude ballet flat all year, but I’ve been very Goldilocks about the whole thing. Some were too pink, others too tan, some had too much embellishment, others were too plain. But strolling through the Nordstrom shoe department last week (as I’m wont to do), I came across the perfect solution. I knew it was right when the whole transaction, from spotting to trying to buying, took under five minutes.

The big winner was the Halogen Callie flat – it’s that perfect taupe-y nude hue that looks right with everything (no, really – everything!), without disappearing on your foot entirely. They’ve become my no-thought-required go-to when picking a shoe feels like too much work, as it does on so many mornings. And the patent leather is perfect for winter weather. Also, they’re under $100, which is a pretty serious steal in my shoe world. But do go up about a half size…they’re running small!

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