Too Many Shoes? Organizing Shoes in Your Closet
by Regina Leeds, Zen Organizer
Before we tackle your shoe issue, you should first clean out your closets so that they aren't stuffed. Walk over to your master bedroom closet and take a fearless peek inside. Ask yourself these questions:
1. Do I have items here that don't belong in a closet?
In general, let's say that clothing is the only thing you should find in your master bedroom closet. This isn't the place to store hundreds of family photos in search of albums. It isn't the ideal spot for holiday decorations. Gift-wrap and bows shouldn't take space away from suits and dresses. You catch my drift.
2. Is the closet bursting with clothing I haven't worn in a long time?
Perhaps you harbor full wardrobes from various sizes. It's time to clean everything out and keep only what serves you now. A charity or women's shelter is waiting for your things and wants to give you a tax receipt!
3. Is everything separated into categories and organized by color?
If your closet isn't at least divided into categories (blouses, sweats, skirts, slacks, etc.), every time you think of an item you'd like to wear, a battle to find it will ensue. It does indeed take a few hours to organize a closet. Over the course of a year, however, you'll save twice that time.
Now let's consider those shoes. I once organized a famous actress who had a huge shoe collection. She kept 89 pairs that I organized by color in stacks of clear acrylic boxes. ("If you can't see them, you generally don't wear them" is a good rule of thumb to remember.) And even she parted with 40 pairs! If she can give away 40 pairs of Manolo Blahniks to a women's shelter, I know you can weed through your collection. After you pare down your shoes, divide your collection by type. For example, it's nice to keep day shoes, sport shoes and evening shoes separate. If you live in a climate with four distinct seasons, you may have a winter and summer selection. Here are some common shoe storage solutions:
1.Hang a canvas shoe rack over your closet door and keep your sport shoes there.
2.Like most women you probably don't use your evening shoes too often, so they can go into clear acrylic shoeboxes on a high shelf in your closet. (You may want to have an extra shelf put in if you see a huge space between the standard shelf and the ceiling.)
3.With your closet organized, you can introduce a shoe rack. The metal expanding shelf variety works really well. You can also use a cedar shoe rack if you have the space and protect your woolens at the same time!
MY THOUGHTS
i agree - "if you don;t see them, you don't wear them" those acrylic boxes are great. when you have too many shoes and acrylic boxes will turn out to be really expensive, just cut out the shoe boxes or write down the description of your shoes. better yet, give some of shoes away.
Monday, May 31, 2010
Saturday, May 22, 2010
Worst Shoes to Wear to a Job Interview
Office Shoes
The Worst Shoes to Wear to an Office Job Interview
By Desiree Stimpert, About.com Guide
When it comes to footwear, and to fashion in general, I'm a bit of a style renegade. Preferring to have fun with shoes and clothes, I'm not much into rules or safe choices. However, business is business, and if you're looking to land an office job, dress codes can be serious business.
While many work places are becoming much more relaxed about dress codes, for a lot of companies, professional appearance is of utmost importance. And the way you present yourself on the day of your interview may speak volumes to your potential employer. Here are a few suggestions on shoes not to wear to a job interview.
Sneakers
With telecommuting gaining popularity, and many offices having a more laid-back attitude about work attire, it's easy for us to forget that a job interview is still a somewhat formal affair. While a pair of Converse chucks might show your artsy side, and a pair of trainers may be the most comfortable choice, to make your best first impression, don't wear sneakers to an interview for an office job.
Sandals & Open-Toed Shoes
It's fairly obvious that flip-flops are an inappropriate choice for a job interview, but for many office jobs, even dressier and heeled sandals should be avoided. While many offices don't have a policy against open toe shoes, some do. It's best to play it safe and find out the dress codes after you land the job, rather than to risk it on the interview.
Shimmery or Overly Embellished Shoes
I love embellishments more than nearly anyone, so it pains me to say that there is a time when it's inappropriate to be flashy - but there is, and it's a job interview. In fact, even after you've landed the job, it's more professional and appropriate to save the metallics, crystals, and studs for after-hours.
Extremely High Heels
In addition to the fact that they're difficult to walk in - you don't want to miss the interview because you sprained your ankle - shoes with extremely high heels can actually (and pay attention here, because it's one of the only time you'll hear me say the following) call too much attention to your footwear. The emphasis should be on you and your skills, and not on your shoes.
Shoes that are Dirty, Torn, or Show other Signs of Wear & Tear
While many of us obsess over our shoes, for many, they're merely a means of covering and protecting the feet. Therefore, not a lot of attention is given to how they look. But to make a great first impression, you should pay attention to the details. Your shoes should be shined or buffed, scuff and dirt-free, and should not have any visible strains, rips or tears. While new shoes should remove all of those concerns, you need to be careful that they're comfortable and easy to walk in before the actual interview day. The last thing you need is to add foot pain to your list of worries on interview day.
The Right Shoes for an Office Job Interview
The appropriate shoes for office job interviews will be dress shoes -- flats or heels of around 3" or less. They'll have closed toes, be clean, sharp-looking, and will complement your outfit, but won't overpower it. The ideal shoes will be free of metallic finishes, overdone embellishments, and excessively high heels. Having said all of that, it seems like you have few choices, but that's really not the case.
Stylish Shoe Choices for Your Job Interview
Let the company you're applying at, and the position you're applying for dictate how creative your footwear choices can be. For example, if you're going for a position at a fashion magazine, you'll definitely want your personality and sense of style to come through. Choose classic but stylish shoes with a subtle or chic print, or a large buckle. While you don't want to risk going over the top, you definitely don't want to seem boring or staid.
On the other hand, if it's a banking or investment job you're after, it's definitely best to stay on the conservative side of footwear. You can't go wrong with a basic pump in a color that complements your suit. A bit of classic hardware, like a simple buckle will appear chic and stylish, without crossing the line into trendy.
MY THOUGHTS
yes, we do look at how the applicant is dressed but not so much the shoes. this article is right it depends on the company and the job you're applying for. i don't mind embelished shoes. even shoes that are a little tattered. for as long as they are clean. what matters most to me when we're hiring is the competence and attitude. the person with the right attitude will certainly wear the appropriate pair of shoes.
The Worst Shoes to Wear to an Office Job Interview
By Desiree Stimpert, About.com Guide
When it comes to footwear, and to fashion in general, I'm a bit of a style renegade. Preferring to have fun with shoes and clothes, I'm not much into rules or safe choices. However, business is business, and if you're looking to land an office job, dress codes can be serious business.
While many work places are becoming much more relaxed about dress codes, for a lot of companies, professional appearance is of utmost importance. And the way you present yourself on the day of your interview may speak volumes to your potential employer. Here are a few suggestions on shoes not to wear to a job interview.
Sneakers
With telecommuting gaining popularity, and many offices having a more laid-back attitude about work attire, it's easy for us to forget that a job interview is still a somewhat formal affair. While a pair of Converse chucks might show your artsy side, and a pair of trainers may be the most comfortable choice, to make your best first impression, don't wear sneakers to an interview for an office job.
Sandals & Open-Toed Shoes
It's fairly obvious that flip-flops are an inappropriate choice for a job interview, but for many office jobs, even dressier and heeled sandals should be avoided. While many offices don't have a policy against open toe shoes, some do. It's best to play it safe and find out the dress codes after you land the job, rather than to risk it on the interview.
Shimmery or Overly Embellished Shoes
I love embellishments more than nearly anyone, so it pains me to say that there is a time when it's inappropriate to be flashy - but there is, and it's a job interview. In fact, even after you've landed the job, it's more professional and appropriate to save the metallics, crystals, and studs for after-hours.
Extremely High Heels
In addition to the fact that they're difficult to walk in - you don't want to miss the interview because you sprained your ankle - shoes with extremely high heels can actually (and pay attention here, because it's one of the only time you'll hear me say the following) call too much attention to your footwear. The emphasis should be on you and your skills, and not on your shoes.
Shoes that are Dirty, Torn, or Show other Signs of Wear & Tear
While many of us obsess over our shoes, for many, they're merely a means of covering and protecting the feet. Therefore, not a lot of attention is given to how they look. But to make a great first impression, you should pay attention to the details. Your shoes should be shined or buffed, scuff and dirt-free, and should not have any visible strains, rips or tears. While new shoes should remove all of those concerns, you need to be careful that they're comfortable and easy to walk in before the actual interview day. The last thing you need is to add foot pain to your list of worries on interview day.
The Right Shoes for an Office Job Interview
The appropriate shoes for office job interviews will be dress shoes -- flats or heels of around 3" or less. They'll have closed toes, be clean, sharp-looking, and will complement your outfit, but won't overpower it. The ideal shoes will be free of metallic finishes, overdone embellishments, and excessively high heels. Having said all of that, it seems like you have few choices, but that's really not the case.
Stylish Shoe Choices for Your Job Interview
Let the company you're applying at, and the position you're applying for dictate how creative your footwear choices can be. For example, if you're going for a position at a fashion magazine, you'll definitely want your personality and sense of style to come through. Choose classic but stylish shoes with a subtle or chic print, or a large buckle. While you don't want to risk going over the top, you definitely don't want to seem boring or staid.
On the other hand, if it's a banking or investment job you're after, it's definitely best to stay on the conservative side of footwear. You can't go wrong with a basic pump in a color that complements your suit. A bit of classic hardware, like a simple buckle will appear chic and stylish, without crossing the line into trendy.
MY THOUGHTS
yes, we do look at how the applicant is dressed but not so much the shoes. this article is right it depends on the company and the job you're applying for. i don't mind embelished shoes. even shoes that are a little tattered. for as long as they are clean. what matters most to me when we're hiring is the competence and attitude. the person with the right attitude will certainly wear the appropriate pair of shoes.
Friday, May 21, 2010
Taking Off Shoes At Airport Could Be Health Hazard
Taking Off Shoes At Airport Could Be Health Hazard
10News Lifts Samples From Security Checkpoints
POSTED: 12:02 pm PDT July 3, 2006
UPDATED: 4:41 pm PDT July 3, 2006
SAN DIEGO -- About 17 million pairs of feet move through Lindbergh Field Airport in San Diego every year. Each passenger is asked to take off their shoes at security. Some are clean, some are dirty, and some carry diseases, 10News reported.
"If there are individuals walking barefoot or with socks, they will transmit to another person walking over the same spot," lower leg desease expert Dr. Daniel Lee said.
What do socked or barefooted passengers leave behind? 10News used petri dishes to gather samples where passengers picked up their carry-ons off the conveyer belt at the security checkpoint.
After sampling in San Diego, a 10News employee headed to Las Vegas and Phoenix -- two popular destinations for San Diegans.
Investigative reporter Marti Emerald gave the samples to Quadrants Scientific in Rancho Bernardo.
The lab identified a mold from McCarron Airport in Las Vegas as trichophyston, which causes ringworm and favus, a nasty disease of the scalp.
The next test was from Sky Harbor Airport in Phoenix, where samples were lifted to test for bacteria.
Scientists found bacteria and fungus unique to the areas where passengers removed their shoes.
"I do have concerns over the organisms you found," Lee said. "Staphylococcus causes skin infections that goes deep through the layers and people who are sensitive can pick it up."
Lee said this particular organism is resistant to many of the antibotics used these days.
"The other organism I saw was Neisseria. It is of the species and genus that can lead to gonorrhea," Lee said.
Lee suggests wearing medical booties through security. Airports in Phoenix and Dallas offer free booties for flyers. Lindbergh Field does not, but could that may be changing.
It is illegal to force anyone to take off their shoes, but passengers who don't comply may be sent to a secondary security checkpoint.
"We looked at that before more as a customer convenience. We were told the floors were perhaps too cold," said Diana Lucero of the Airport Authority.
The San Diego Airport Authority intends to revisit the idea of handing out booties as part of its response to the 10News findings.
"We are very concerned about the health of the traveling public. Any remedies that have to implemented as a result of this, we will certainly move quickly in conjunction with the Transportation Security Administration to implement them," added Lucero.
The Airport Authority will test carpets themselves, and will clean and sanitize floors in the security areas more often.
They are also discussing the possibility of offering booties similar to the ones given away in Dallas and Phoenix airports.
MY THOUGHTS:
Yikes! I've always found this "taking-the-shoes-off" bothersome. I take the local flights at least 4x in a month!!! Never mind the inconvenmience. All these bacteria and fungus. Better go back to wearing socks.
10News Lifts Samples From Security Checkpoints
POSTED: 12:02 pm PDT July 3, 2006
UPDATED: 4:41 pm PDT July 3, 2006
SAN DIEGO -- About 17 million pairs of feet move through Lindbergh Field Airport in San Diego every year. Each passenger is asked to take off their shoes at security. Some are clean, some are dirty, and some carry diseases, 10News reported.
"If there are individuals walking barefoot or with socks, they will transmit to another person walking over the same spot," lower leg desease expert Dr. Daniel Lee said.
What do socked or barefooted passengers leave behind? 10News used petri dishes to gather samples where passengers picked up their carry-ons off the conveyer belt at the security checkpoint.
After sampling in San Diego, a 10News employee headed to Las Vegas and Phoenix -- two popular destinations for San Diegans.
Investigative reporter Marti Emerald gave the samples to Quadrants Scientific in Rancho Bernardo.
The lab identified a mold from McCarron Airport in Las Vegas as trichophyston, which causes ringworm and favus, a nasty disease of the scalp.
The next test was from Sky Harbor Airport in Phoenix, where samples were lifted to test for bacteria.
Scientists found bacteria and fungus unique to the areas where passengers removed their shoes.
"I do have concerns over the organisms you found," Lee said. "Staphylococcus causes skin infections that goes deep through the layers and people who are sensitive can pick it up."
Lee said this particular organism is resistant to many of the antibotics used these days.
"The other organism I saw was Neisseria. It is of the species and genus that can lead to gonorrhea," Lee said.
Lee suggests wearing medical booties through security. Airports in Phoenix and Dallas offer free booties for flyers. Lindbergh Field does not, but could that may be changing.
It is illegal to force anyone to take off their shoes, but passengers who don't comply may be sent to a secondary security checkpoint.
"We looked at that before more as a customer convenience. We were told the floors were perhaps too cold," said Diana Lucero of the Airport Authority.
The San Diego Airport Authority intends to revisit the idea of handing out booties as part of its response to the 10News findings.
"We are very concerned about the health of the traveling public. Any remedies that have to implemented as a result of this, we will certainly move quickly in conjunction with the Transportation Security Administration to implement them," added Lucero.
The Airport Authority will test carpets themselves, and will clean and sanitize floors in the security areas more often.
They are also discussing the possibility of offering booties similar to the ones given away in Dallas and Phoenix airports.
MY THOUGHTS:
Yikes! I've always found this "taking-the-shoes-off" bothersome. I take the local flights at least 4x in a month!!! Never mind the inconvenmience. All these bacteria and fungus. Better go back to wearing socks.
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