Am I missing something, or there is not much variation in build/game style, if you want effective character? Sorcery is crap. Pyromancy is crap as primary damage dealer, but ok as a backup. Armor is irrelevant. Shields are ok as a crutch, but vastly inferior to rolling.
So, resulting power build (for noob PvE) looks like this.
Weapon - Dark Sword. Wide swings, maximum damage per time and stamina, shield breaking art. I see no alternatives.
Shield - Shield of Want, or Black Shield. Maybe Havel shield if you agree to spam Magic Shield. Som buckler if you can Parry, but Parry is too wonky.
Armor - whatever looks good.
Stats:
Vigor - 24+
Attunement - 18, then 24
Str/Dex - one at 40 (preferrably strength), other at whatever your gear requirement is.
Int/Faith - 20/20 for unlocking nearly all of good sorceries/pyromancies/miracles
Endurance - ~30