True story: I didn’t own a pair of jeans for about 8 years. I was terrified of jeans. And, it wasn’t for a lack of trying. I can’t tell you how many times I’d lock myself in a store fitting room to try on countless pairs of denim only to feel discouraged.

Your favorite pair of jeans will fail to forgive you when your weight fluctuates, but your shoes remain a constant confidante. Here are my favorite kicks of the Summer, all under $50 so you can treat yourself to a pair (or four) without feeling too bad.