Greetings!

A month ago I finished getting all the parts to fix up my 1981 Schwinn Le Tour, and I've been riding it very short distances since. Since I moved, however, my commutes will be a bit longer. Typical rides will be 6 miles, but I also plan on riding 40+ miles on select days.

I have a pair of shorts that have been kind to me for a 16 mile ride, but I've heard that a good saddle and short pairing can make shamy cream useless for the 40 mile rides I want to go on. To be fair, it was a male who said that to me, so I was wondering if that level of comfort is even possible for females (I assume yes, but you never know). I have a B17S Select, so I'm not expecting to do intense riding. I've found the saddle surprisingly comfortable, other than the nose causing the usual problems for ladies. My bike shorts have worked fine for now (Canari), but I'm sure there can be a better fit that than. Any suggestions?

Also, I don't know what shoes to wear. I've been using a pair of flat shoes, but they've been falling apart for years. I would rather avoid clipless, as I use the platform to hoist myself off and on the saddle. Would a custom pair of shoes be acceptable or should I find a pair of cycling shoes?

I don't plan to be competitive, I just want to be able to commute around town comfortably. I'm trying to swear off cars for almost all of my travel. Price isn't a problem if the quality is worth it. Admittedly, I'd like to keep it under $300 if I can.

Cheers!