34 minutes - the time it takes for new shoes to pinch
The average woman can stand their new pair of shoes for just 34 minutes before grimacing with pain.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/newstopics/howaboutthat/8163117/34-minutes-the-time-it-takes-for-new-shoes-to-pinch.html
Researchers have found that once they have stepped out of the taxi and into a pub or club, they survive just over half an hour before their feet start to hurt.
Four in ten said they take a spare pair of pumps 'out of habit' to change into because they know their shoes will rub.
And more than half have ended up walking home bare-foot, while one in ten have abandoned their shoes altogether or borrowed someone else's
But a survey of 4,000 women revealed a determined one fifth said the prospect of aching feet would not put them off wearing a pair of killer heels.
Erika Gibbins, podiatrist for shoe insert Insolia, said: ''So many women will be able to relate to these findings, as they've been victims of painful shoes, but persevere with them in the name of fashion.
''It's ridiculous that so many nights out are spoilt so quickly by painful shoes and it doesn't have to be this way.
''The fact the nation's women are resorting to taking a second pair of shoes, and walking home barefoot means they need to do something so they can get to enjoy nights out and not worry about their feet.''
The average woman has suffered from foot pain on at least six occasions in the last 12 months. One in ten have been carried home, while a third have deliberately chosen bars with stools to keep the weight off their feet.
Yet half said they own a pair of killer heels which hurt to wear but put up with the pain because they look great, and three in ten have worn an uncomfortable pair to prove a point to their partner.
The nationwide poll of women aged 18 to 65 found the average woman currently owns 18 pairs, typically spent £35 on each purchase and has a hoard totalling £630.
But eight in ten said they have nine pairs of shoes in their cupboard they have never worn or donned just once or twice. They also have another four pairs they deem 'too uncomfortable to wear'. That means shoe-addicts have at least £315 worth that have never seen the light of day.
It also emerged one third admit they are 'addicted to shoes' and six in ten have a special dedicated area or shelf to keep them out of harm's way.
One in five even judge another female by their footwear and one in ten reckon they're the most important part of an outfit
A quarter said they find it 'easy to justify buying shoes' and 18 per cent said no matter what, they'd throw caution to the wind and still buy themselves shoes even if money was tight.
Erika Gibbins added: ''In standard three inch heels the centre of pressure is 75 per cent on the front of the foot which is why you get that burning sensation on the ball of your foot. This can also lead to bad body alignment and leg and lower back pain.
''When you stand for a prolonged period of time the load is magnified to the point where the foot just hurts all the time.
''My advice would be to always test new shoes at home and if they feel like they might start to hurt, take precautions like fitting an insert to help realign weight.''
The study was carried out to mark the launch of Insolia inserts which claim to relieve the pain of high heels so women can wear them for up to three times longer.
MY THOUGHTS
i feel grateful that i'm way past that stage when i will sacrifice comfort for the sake of looking good. i simply don't care anymore about looking good. i don't want to look shabby but i won't go through painful shoe expereinces for the sake of fashion. having spent some time alone in some countries, i got to the habit of walking. because i was too scared to get on a bus or a commuter train and find myself lost in a strange place where i cannot read the signs and no one can tell me 'in english' how i could find my way back. walking has become a lifestyle for me. and comfortable shoes has become a necessity. i come to love those beautiful shoes that offers comfort. and they can be quite fashionable. i think i have a couple of wedges. and a couple of pumps. but flats reign.
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Break In Your Beautiful Shoes
Tip of the Week: Breaking in your Shoes
Julie Sabatino ON Aug 23, 2007 at
There are few things I hate more than breaking in a new pair of shoes. I just bought the cutest pair of heels on an end of season sale, and yesterday I wore them for the first time. Oh the agony! When am I going to learn to not wear a pair of new shoes when I will be out all day?!?!
Let this be a lesson to all of you…break in your wedding shoes before you wear them! They obviously require some special handling since they are more easily stained and scuffed, but you can take these steps to a pain free wedding day!
1) Before you begin, put masking tape on the bottom of the shoe to avoid scuffing the sole incase you decide to return them.
2) Walk around the house in them for at least an hour at a time, and make sure you wear them the same way as on your wedding day (stockings, barefoot etc.) so you can get a true sense for how they feel.
3) Remember, you’ll be on your feet all day and they will swell. In anticipation, you may want to stretch your shoes a little wearing a medium weight sock with them around the house.
4) Include in your wedding day emergency kit moleskin, baby powder, and extra foot cushioning (see Foot petals).
Good luck and happy stepping!
Best,
Julie
MY THOUGHTS
even if it's not your wedding,pay attention to these tipson breaking-in your beautiful shoes. i've been in so many situations where my new shoes actually caused wounds. and i can't wear shoes for days without band-aids. i just hate those blisters.
Julie Sabatino ON Aug 23, 2007 at
There are few things I hate more than breaking in a new pair of shoes. I just bought the cutest pair of heels on an end of season sale, and yesterday I wore them for the first time. Oh the agony! When am I going to learn to not wear a pair of new shoes when I will be out all day?!?!
Let this be a lesson to all of you…break in your wedding shoes before you wear them! They obviously require some special handling since they are more easily stained and scuffed, but you can take these steps to a pain free wedding day!
1) Before you begin, put masking tape on the bottom of the shoe to avoid scuffing the sole incase you decide to return them.
2) Walk around the house in them for at least an hour at a time, and make sure you wear them the same way as on your wedding day (stockings, barefoot etc.) so you can get a true sense for how they feel.
3) Remember, you’ll be on your feet all day and they will swell. In anticipation, you may want to stretch your shoes a little wearing a medium weight sock with them around the house.
4) Include in your wedding day emergency kit moleskin, baby powder, and extra foot cushioning (see Foot petals).
Good luck and happy stepping!
Best,
Julie
MY THOUGHTS
even if it's not your wedding,pay attention to these tipson breaking-in your beautiful shoes. i've been in so many situations where my new shoes actually caused wounds. and i can't wear shoes for days without band-aids. i just hate those blisters.
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Snap-On Shoe Clips for your Beautiful Shoes
Style Save: Snap-On Shoe Clips
It only take a few seconds (and a few dollars) to give your shoes a spot-on new look
Adele Brennan ON Jul 27, 2010 at 6:00AM
A few weeks ago, I found one of my favorite pairs of vintage gold pumps unlovingly buried under a pile of odds and ends in my closet (Confession: I take terrible care of my shoes!). When I went to tug at one of them, a pretty little rosette that had been hanging out right near the top of the toe popped off. I was devastated -- or I was until I looked a tad closer and saw that the swirl of fabric was actually... a clip! And all I had to do was snap it back on to fix. Phew!
What was better than having my shoe fixed though? Seeing how it looked equally amazing with or without the clip on. Two shoes for the price of one? Yes, please!
But you don't need to buy a pair of vintage pumps like I did to make this wardrobe wonder happen. There are actually lots of really cute clips out there that you snap on to shoes you already have in your closet. I'd pair these Posie-Cure Clips ($15.99 at ModCloth) or these sparkly Ellie Multi-Color ones ($24.99 at Absolutely Audrey) with almost any plain (i.e. solid colored) heels or flats I have on hand. The ModCloth ones are perfect for day, while the set at Absolutely Audrey would take any shoe from day to night in five seconds flat.
Any good shopping or styling tips you've discovered totally on accident? Fill us in!
MY THOUGHTS
better lookfor these shoe clips. i've seen a lot for kids but not for women. imagine transforming your ordinary flats into beautiful shoes by simply clipping on those shoe clips. i'm sure we have it here.
It only take a few seconds (and a few dollars) to give your shoes a spot-on new look
Adele Brennan ON Jul 27, 2010 at 6:00AM
A few weeks ago, I found one of my favorite pairs of vintage gold pumps unlovingly buried under a pile of odds and ends in my closet (Confession: I take terrible care of my shoes!). When I went to tug at one of them, a pretty little rosette that had been hanging out right near the top of the toe popped off. I was devastated -- or I was until I looked a tad closer and saw that the swirl of fabric was actually... a clip! And all I had to do was snap it back on to fix. Phew!
What was better than having my shoe fixed though? Seeing how it looked equally amazing with or without the clip on. Two shoes for the price of one? Yes, please!
But you don't need to buy a pair of vintage pumps like I did to make this wardrobe wonder happen. There are actually lots of really cute clips out there that you snap on to shoes you already have in your closet. I'd pair these Posie-Cure Clips ($15.99 at ModCloth) or these sparkly Ellie Multi-Color ones ($24.99 at Absolutely Audrey) with almost any plain (i.e. solid colored) heels or flats I have on hand. The ModCloth ones are perfect for day, while the set at Absolutely Audrey would take any shoe from day to night in five seconds flat.
Any good shopping or styling tips you've discovered totally on accident? Fill us in!
MY THOUGHTS
better lookfor these shoe clips. i've seen a lot for kids but not for women. imagine transforming your ordinary flats into beautiful shoes by simply clipping on those shoe clips. i'm sure we have it here.
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Beautiful Shoes with high heels can cause injury
High heels results in injuries
2010-11-07 00:00:00
London, Nov 6 (IANS) Women who wear high heels are more prone to injuries, a study has found.
Thousands of women have hurt themselves because of their shoes. Many had gone to such extreme lengths to wear stylish shoes that they were taken to hospital after twisting an ankle or tearing a tendon, reports express.co.uk.
Some have fallen flat on their face because of their heels, with many damaging their teeth or breaking a wrist.
A poll of 3,000 women, aged 18-65, found that they also suffered broken ankles and twisted knees due to high heels.
But six in 10 said they would continue to wear killer heels if they were complimented on their footwear during a night out. More than a third said they have had to be helped home because of poorly fitting shoes.
Lisa McCarten, of comfort shoe specialist Hotter Shoes, said: 'Women buy shoes that look good, and worry about the pain later.'
MY THOUGHTS
i've stopped wearing those beautiful shoes with heels for health reasons. i very rarely use them. i don't want to worry about the pain later. i remember all those times i was unable enjoy an event because my feet were killing me. enough is enough.
2010-11-07 00:00:00
London, Nov 6 (IANS) Women who wear high heels are more prone to injuries, a study has found.
Thousands of women have hurt themselves because of their shoes. Many had gone to such extreme lengths to wear stylish shoes that they were taken to hospital after twisting an ankle or tearing a tendon, reports express.co.uk.
Some have fallen flat on their face because of their heels, with many damaging their teeth or breaking a wrist.
A poll of 3,000 women, aged 18-65, found that they also suffered broken ankles and twisted knees due to high heels.
But six in 10 said they would continue to wear killer heels if they were complimented on their footwear during a night out. More than a third said they have had to be helped home because of poorly fitting shoes.
Lisa McCarten, of comfort shoe specialist Hotter Shoes, said: 'Women buy shoes that look good, and worry about the pain later.'
MY THOUGHTS
i've stopped wearing those beautiful shoes with heels for health reasons. i very rarely use them. i don't want to worry about the pain later. i remember all those times i was unable enjoy an event because my feet were killing me. enough is enough.
Beautiful Shoes With Heels Injured 3M Women
Killer high heels' have injured 3mn women!
ANI, Nov 6, 2010, 12.27pm IST
LONDON: The next time you wear those stilettos, better be careful-a new study has suggested that more than three million women have had to seek medical attention for injuries caused by their high heels.
Half either tore a tendon or twisted an ankle, while thousands of others smashed their teeth or broke wrists by falling flat.
But 60% of women said whatever agony a pair of heels caused, they would keep wearing them if they won compliments.
The poll of 3,000 women aged 18 to 65 also found a whopping 89% said uncomfortable shoes have ruined a night out.
More than a third have had to be helped or even carried home because of pain from shoes that are too tight.
And 61% have spent a whole evening sitting down.
But 80% have bought a trendy pair despite knowing they do not fit.
Only 2% of the women polled by Hotter Shoes never wear heels.
"Women tend to buy shoes that look good, and then worry about the pain later," the Sun quoted spokeswoman Lisa McCarten, as saying. "It's incredible to imagine the pain and discomfort women endure for a pair of killer heels," she added.
MY THOUGHTS
ouch! what women would go through to look fabulous. i feel relieved to be so past this stage. i'm more for comfort. and being appropriately dressed.
ANI, Nov 6, 2010, 12.27pm IST
LONDON: The next time you wear those stilettos, better be careful-a new study has suggested that more than three million women have had to seek medical attention for injuries caused by their high heels.
Half either tore a tendon or twisted an ankle, while thousands of others smashed their teeth or broke wrists by falling flat.
But 60% of women said whatever agony a pair of heels caused, they would keep wearing them if they won compliments.
The poll of 3,000 women aged 18 to 65 also found a whopping 89% said uncomfortable shoes have ruined a night out.
More than a third have had to be helped or even carried home because of pain from shoes that are too tight.
And 61% have spent a whole evening sitting down.
But 80% have bought a trendy pair despite knowing they do not fit.
Only 2% of the women polled by Hotter Shoes never wear heels.
"Women tend to buy shoes that look good, and then worry about the pain later," the Sun quoted spokeswoman Lisa McCarten, as saying. "It's incredible to imagine the pain and discomfort women endure for a pair of killer heels," she added.
MY THOUGHTS
ouch! what women would go through to look fabulous. i feel relieved to be so past this stage. i'm more for comfort. and being appropriately dressed.
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Health Tip for Shopping for Beautiful Shoes
Health Tip: Shopping for Shoes
Suggestions to help prevent foot problems
(HealthDay News) -- Wearing shoes that don't fit can contribute to a long list of foot problems.
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons suggests how to choose the right footwear and keep your feet happy:
Always measure both feet each time you go shoe shopping.
Try on shoes late in the day, when the feet tend to be a bit larger.
Women should opt for heels that are no higher than 2 1/4 inches.
Make sure the shoes fit properly in the heels and the toes, with 1/2 inch of space between the shoe and your longest toe.
Try on both shoes to be sure that they fit comfortably on both feet. Opt for the size that is most comfortable on your largest foot.
Walk around the store with both shoes on to make sure the fit is comfortable. Don't count on "breaking them in."
-- Diana Kohnle
MY THOUGHTS
i agree with all of the above tips. and i follow them. except for the "1/2 space between the shoe and my longest toe". result: dead toe nails. better learn the lesson fast.
Suggestions to help prevent foot problems
(HealthDay News) -- Wearing shoes that don't fit can contribute to a long list of foot problems.
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons suggests how to choose the right footwear and keep your feet happy:
Always measure both feet each time you go shoe shopping.
Try on shoes late in the day, when the feet tend to be a bit larger.
Women should opt for heels that are no higher than 2 1/4 inches.
Make sure the shoes fit properly in the heels and the toes, with 1/2 inch of space between the shoe and your longest toe.
Try on both shoes to be sure that they fit comfortably on both feet. Opt for the size that is most comfortable on your largest foot.
Walk around the store with both shoes on to make sure the fit is comfortable. Don't count on "breaking them in."
-- Diana Kohnle
MY THOUGHTS
i agree with all of the above tips. and i follow them. except for the "1/2 space between the shoe and my longest toe". result: dead toe nails. better learn the lesson fast.
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
do-it-yourself shoe
Introducing the innovative new D.I.Y shoe
With a host of fabulous collaborations to date, including Vivienne Westwood and Jean Paul Gautier, Melissa is back with it's newest project - D.I.Y shoes...
SEE OUR PICK OF THE BEST NEW SEASON SHOES HERE!
The customisable plastic disc shoes are designed by leading international architecture and design specialist Gaetano Pesce.
Made up of mismatched plastic spheres, customers are able to cut the edges to create new styles - so from ballerina flats, to flip flop sandals, to the classic ankle boot, it's time grab a pair of scissors and channel your inner Tamara Mellon.
Avant-garde, futuristic and completely unique - this is arguably Melissa's most revolutionary shoe to date.
Available in six different colours; black, red, off-white, blue and translucent orange, this is the perfect opportunity to create some fabulous footwear, as designed by you!
The shoes launch in Selfridges on Sunday 7th November, with a 3-week exhibition.
MY THOUGHTS
you've got to see the pics so don't forget to click on the links. amazing what creative people can come up with.
With a host of fabulous collaborations to date, including Vivienne Westwood and Jean Paul Gautier, Melissa is back with it's newest project - D.I.Y shoes...
SEE OUR PICK OF THE BEST NEW SEASON SHOES HERE!
The customisable plastic disc shoes are designed by leading international architecture and design specialist Gaetano Pesce.
Made up of mismatched plastic spheres, customers are able to cut the edges to create new styles - so from ballerina flats, to flip flop sandals, to the classic ankle boot, it's time grab a pair of scissors and channel your inner Tamara Mellon.
Avant-garde, futuristic and completely unique - this is arguably Melissa's most revolutionary shoe to date.
Available in six different colours; black, red, off-white, blue and translucent orange, this is the perfect opportunity to create some fabulous footwear, as designed by you!
The shoes launch in Selfridges on Sunday 7th November, with a 3-week exhibition.
MY THOUGHTS
you've got to see the pics so don't forget to click on the links. amazing what creative people can come up with.
Monday, November 8, 2010
Looking to fill 1,000 shoe boxes
Looking to fill 1,000 shoe boxes
Annual Operation Christmas Child campaign to kick off Nov. 15
November 6, 2010 - By Karin Elton
MARSHALL - Shoes are nice to get for Christmas, but for some, the shoe box is even better.
During the week of Nov. 15-22, local Operation Christmas Child volunteers hope to gather more than 1,000 gift-filled shoe boxes for needy children overseas.
"It's a good outreach," Barb Mesman, an administrative assistant at Radiant Life Church in Marshall, said of Operation Christmas Child. "It's something that everybody can do - kids and adults."
"Kids and adults" can pick up a shoe box at the newly-renamed Radiant Life Church (formerly Calvary Baptist) or they can gift wrap one of their own, Mesman said. "Some people use plastic tote boxes which last for years and years and the kids can use those," she said.
The shoe boxes can be filled with school supplies, toys, hygiene items, hard candy and a personal note. "Sometimes the children write back," Mesman said.
Since 1993, Operation Christmas Child, a project of international Christian relief and evangelism organization Samaritan's Purse, headed by Franklin Graham, has delivered more than 77 million gift-filled shoe boxes to needy children in some 130 countries.
The church has been the locus for Operation Christmas Child for seven years. Last year it received 932 shoe boxes and hope to hit 1,000 this year. "It catches on a little more each year," Mesman said.
Holy Redeemer Schools participates in the program as well as Marshall Evangelical Free Church. Marshall Area Christian School also will fill shoe boxes this year. New to the program this year is Build A Box which allows donors to go online to www.samaritanspurse.org and pack a virtual shoe box gift. Build A Box will be available online from Nov. 23 to Dec. 25.
All donors can use the "Follow Your Box" feature and track the country where their shoe box gift will go. Mesman said volunteers will be available to receive the boxes from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Nov. 15-21 at Radiant Life, 500 S. Saratoga St. in Marshall, 507-532-3414.
"We can get between nine and 14 shoe boxes into a larger cardboard box, depending on the size of the shoe boxes," Mesman said. "It's a big project and it's fun to see all the boxes."
The boxes get sealed up and placed in a moving van which is driven to a drop-off point in Worthington for further shipping. "Worthington brings them to Minneapolis," she said.
For more information on how to participate in Operation Christmas Child, call 1-800-353-5949 or visit www.samaritanspurse.org National Collection Week is Nov. 15-22.
MY THOUGHTS
i wouldlove to be part ofsuch a project. maybe i should throw the idea to my church group. a couploe of years ago, i spent a whole day in church wrapping christma gifts for kids. i cannot explain the euphoria. but this "box" idea is very exciting.
Annual Operation Christmas Child campaign to kick off Nov. 15
November 6, 2010 - By Karin Elton
MARSHALL - Shoes are nice to get for Christmas, but for some, the shoe box is even better.
During the week of Nov. 15-22, local Operation Christmas Child volunteers hope to gather more than 1,000 gift-filled shoe boxes for needy children overseas.
"It's a good outreach," Barb Mesman, an administrative assistant at Radiant Life Church in Marshall, said of Operation Christmas Child. "It's something that everybody can do - kids and adults."
"Kids and adults" can pick up a shoe box at the newly-renamed Radiant Life Church (formerly Calvary Baptist) or they can gift wrap one of their own, Mesman said. "Some people use plastic tote boxes which last for years and years and the kids can use those," she said.
The shoe boxes can be filled with school supplies, toys, hygiene items, hard candy and a personal note. "Sometimes the children write back," Mesman said.
Since 1993, Operation Christmas Child, a project of international Christian relief and evangelism organization Samaritan's Purse, headed by Franklin Graham, has delivered more than 77 million gift-filled shoe boxes to needy children in some 130 countries.
The church has been the locus for Operation Christmas Child for seven years. Last year it received 932 shoe boxes and hope to hit 1,000 this year. "It catches on a little more each year," Mesman said.
Holy Redeemer Schools participates in the program as well as Marshall Evangelical Free Church. Marshall Area Christian School also will fill shoe boxes this year. New to the program this year is Build A Box which allows donors to go online to www.samaritanspurse.org and pack a virtual shoe box gift. Build A Box will be available online from Nov. 23 to Dec. 25.
All donors can use the "Follow Your Box" feature and track the country where their shoe box gift will go. Mesman said volunteers will be available to receive the boxes from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Nov. 15-21 at Radiant Life, 500 S. Saratoga St. in Marshall, 507-532-3414.
"We can get between nine and 14 shoe boxes into a larger cardboard box, depending on the size of the shoe boxes," Mesman said. "It's a big project and it's fun to see all the boxes."
The boxes get sealed up and placed in a moving van which is driven to a drop-off point in Worthington for further shipping. "Worthington brings them to Minneapolis," she said.
For more information on how to participate in Operation Christmas Child, call 1-800-353-5949 or visit www.samaritanspurse.org National Collection Week is Nov. 15-22.
MY THOUGHTS
i wouldlove to be part ofsuch a project. maybe i should throw the idea to my church group. a couploe of years ago, i spent a whole day in church wrapping christma gifts for kids. i cannot explain the euphoria. but this "box" idea is very exciting.
Sunday, November 7, 2010
man accused of wearing beautiful shoes out of store
Pa. man accused of wearing high heels out of store
2010-11-05 02:00:00
A central Pennsylvania man faces shoplifting charges after police said he tried to steal a pair of women's high-heel shoes by wearing them out of a department store. Lancaster police said 22-year-old Kyle James Eckman went into a store dressing room and put on a pair of size-10 heels then walked out without paying. He was stopped outside the store with his own shoes inside the shoebox in a shopping bag.
Police said Eckman faces felony charges because of two prior retail theft convictions. He is being held on $50,000 bail.
It was not immediately clear if Eckman had an attorney.
Information from: Intelligencer Journal/Lancaster New Era , http://lancasteronline.com
MY THOUGHTS
why would a man steal high heels? for a girlfriend or a wife? to sell for money? just for kicks? or for himself? i wonder what the price of the shoes was. i'm sure that's not $50k.
2010-11-05 02:00:00
A central Pennsylvania man faces shoplifting charges after police said he tried to steal a pair of women's high-heel shoes by wearing them out of a department store. Lancaster police said 22-year-old Kyle James Eckman went into a store dressing room and put on a pair of size-10 heels then walked out without paying. He was stopped outside the store with his own shoes inside the shoebox in a shopping bag.
Police said Eckman faces felony charges because of two prior retail theft convictions. He is being held on $50,000 bail.
It was not immediately clear if Eckman had an attorney.
Information from: Intelligencer Journal/Lancaster New Era , http://lancasteronline.com
MY THOUGHTS
why would a man steal high heels? for a girlfriend or a wife? to sell for money? just for kicks? or for himself? i wonder what the price of the shoes was. i'm sure that's not $50k.
Saturday, November 6, 2010
Beautiful Shoes: Confession of A Shoe Addict
Fashion in the City: I'm a Shoe Addict
Melissa Kagan ON Feb 16, 2005 at 6:01AM
http://www.ivillage.com/fashion-city-im-shoe-addict-0/5-a-146778
My name is Melissa and I'm addicted to shoes. How do you know if you have a shoe-shopping addiction? Take a few moments to consider the following. Have you ever lied about a shoe purchase to friends and family? Have you ever experienced shortness of breath at the sight of a shoe sale? Do you consider a pair of shoes marked down from $750 to $450 a great deal? Do you talk to your shoes as if they were people? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then welcome to the club. We embrace you with open arms and empty wallets.
If you are not a member, let me try to explain. The first inkling I had that I might have a "shoe problem" was when I moved into my first Manhattan apartment after college. My rent left me with little to no extra income for shopping and dining out, so every penny had to be accounted for. I started off with every intention of "budgeting wisely" as my parents had instructed.
But then I saw "them." It was like destiny, being struck by a bolt of lightning, love at first sight. They were a pair of black patent-leather, pointy-toe pumps with a stacked wooden heel, and they cost hundreds of dollars. They spoke to me. They didn't say, "We're too expensive for you." They purred, "Hey, stranger, what's a fashionable girl like you doing without a shoe like us?" They were way above my price range, but my common sense evaporated and what I call "retail reasoning" kicked in. They were expensive, yes, but they were an investment, right? I mean, my parents wanted me to think about my future, and here, right in front of me, was a pair of amazing shoes that I knew I had a future with. I bought them and ate beans and rice for a month. That was the beginning.
"A woman with a shoe habit is like a man with a gambling problem" was the warning that my fiancé received from his friends when he confided in them that he suspected I was a compulsive shoe shopper. (He married me anyway.) But what constitutes a true shoe habit? I mean, don't all women go a little crazy from time to time with the shopping? Isn't it part of being the changeable, moody, mysterious, adorable, amusing, multitasking, fashionable, stressed-out females that we are?
The truth is, since obsessive shoe lovers tend to stick together, my perspective may be skewed. We enable each other. We say things like, "Yes, you should use your emergency credit card for those $450 Jimmy Choo strappy sandals," or, "Of course, it's perfectly okay to hide your purchases in the bushes until you can retrieve them when your husband won't notice." All is fair in love and shoes. When I get together with my shoe friends, any excuse is a reason to go shopping. New boyfriends, recent breakups, promotions, Groundhog Day. For us there is never an occasion that doesn't warrant a trip to the shoe department.
What's the allure? There's just something about a new pair of shoes that makes me feel good about myself. They have this effect even when I'm wearing a humdrum outfit or my "fat" pants. I feel sexier. I feel confident and fashionable. With a great pair of shoes I even feel skinnier sometimes. I don't want to be mushy, but when I buy a pair of shoes from my favorite designer, it's like reuniting with an old friend. And it always feels like we should have gotten together a lot sooner.
I'm addicted to shoes, but I don't think it's a problem ‑- I think it's my calling. I deserve beautiful shoes. We all do. Besides, giving up shoe shopping would be like giving up a part of myself. I'm good at it. It's a God-given talent. It would be like Picasso not painting or Beethoven not composing. What a waste that would be.
MY THOUGHTS
well,i'm not a shoe addict. i don't talk to beautiful shoes. maybe i've hidden a box or 2 of beautiful shoes but i don't experience "shortness of breath" at the sight of them.
Melissa Kagan ON Feb 16, 2005 at 6:01AM
http://www.ivillage.com/fashion-city-im-shoe-addict-0/5-a-146778
My name is Melissa and I'm addicted to shoes. How do you know if you have a shoe-shopping addiction? Take a few moments to consider the following. Have you ever lied about a shoe purchase to friends and family? Have you ever experienced shortness of breath at the sight of a shoe sale? Do you consider a pair of shoes marked down from $750 to $450 a great deal? Do you talk to your shoes as if they were people? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then welcome to the club. We embrace you with open arms and empty wallets.
If you are not a member, let me try to explain. The first inkling I had that I might have a "shoe problem" was when I moved into my first Manhattan apartment after college. My rent left me with little to no extra income for shopping and dining out, so every penny had to be accounted for. I started off with every intention of "budgeting wisely" as my parents had instructed.
But then I saw "them." It was like destiny, being struck by a bolt of lightning, love at first sight. They were a pair of black patent-leather, pointy-toe pumps with a stacked wooden heel, and they cost hundreds of dollars. They spoke to me. They didn't say, "We're too expensive for you." They purred, "Hey, stranger, what's a fashionable girl like you doing without a shoe like us?" They were way above my price range, but my common sense evaporated and what I call "retail reasoning" kicked in. They were expensive, yes, but they were an investment, right? I mean, my parents wanted me to think about my future, and here, right in front of me, was a pair of amazing shoes that I knew I had a future with. I bought them and ate beans and rice for a month. That was the beginning.
"A woman with a shoe habit is like a man with a gambling problem" was the warning that my fiancé received from his friends when he confided in them that he suspected I was a compulsive shoe shopper. (He married me anyway.) But what constitutes a true shoe habit? I mean, don't all women go a little crazy from time to time with the shopping? Isn't it part of being the changeable, moody, mysterious, adorable, amusing, multitasking, fashionable, stressed-out females that we are?
The truth is, since obsessive shoe lovers tend to stick together, my perspective may be skewed. We enable each other. We say things like, "Yes, you should use your emergency credit card for those $450 Jimmy Choo strappy sandals," or, "Of course, it's perfectly okay to hide your purchases in the bushes until you can retrieve them when your husband won't notice." All is fair in love and shoes. When I get together with my shoe friends, any excuse is a reason to go shopping. New boyfriends, recent breakups, promotions, Groundhog Day. For us there is never an occasion that doesn't warrant a trip to the shoe department.
What's the allure? There's just something about a new pair of shoes that makes me feel good about myself. They have this effect even when I'm wearing a humdrum outfit or my "fat" pants. I feel sexier. I feel confident and fashionable. With a great pair of shoes I even feel skinnier sometimes. I don't want to be mushy, but when I buy a pair of shoes from my favorite designer, it's like reuniting with an old friend. And it always feels like we should have gotten together a lot sooner.
I'm addicted to shoes, but I don't think it's a problem ‑- I think it's my calling. I deserve beautiful shoes. We all do. Besides, giving up shoe shopping would be like giving up a part of myself. I'm good at it. It's a God-given talent. It would be like Picasso not painting or Beethoven not composing. What a waste that would be.
MY THOUGHTS
well,i'm not a shoe addict. i don't talk to beautiful shoes. maybe i've hidden a box or 2 of beautiful shoes but i don't experience "shortness of breath" at the sight of them.
Are Your Beautiful Shoes Appropriate for Work?
Wear to Work Mistakes
6 Wear to Work Mistakes to Avoid
By Paula Darnell, About.com Guide
With our lifestyles more casual than ever and business wear blurring with casual attire in many workplaces, it's no wonder that women sometimes have difficulty determining what they should wear to work. To keep work attire appropriate, avoid these six wear to work mistakes.
1. Wear to Work Mistake #1 - Short Skirts
Wear to work mistake #1 is wearing a skirt or dress that's too short. Even if you look fabulous in very short skirts, save the minis for date night or other occasions outside of the workplace. Short women especially need to be mindful that a mini-skirt may make them look girlish (if not sexy), and that's a look to avoid in a business setting where women want to be taken seriously. Stilettos
2. Wear to Work Mistake #2 - Cleavage Showing
Wear to work mistake #2 is showing cleavage. Even Hillary Clinton, who's known more for wearing business/formal pantsuits than sexy tops, took some flack from commentators for cleavage showing during a Senate speech in 2008. This is another look that's too sexy for the office and best saved for non-work occasions.
3. Wear to work mistake #3 is wearing sky-high stilettos. While high heels are fine for the workplace, and most petites enjoy the extra height, when heels are too high, they read as too sexy. Another downside is that very high stilettos are terribly uncomfortable to wear all day. Recently I was at the bank, and I noticed that one of the officers was tottering around on 6-inch stilettos. She could barely walk in her beautiful shoes. The best look for business: sleek shoes with a heel height that you can live in for a day's work.
4. Wear to Work Mistake #4 - Distracting Jewelry
Wear to work mistake #4 is wearing distracting jewelry. Huge hoops or chandelier earrings, an armful of bangles, big statement necklaces, or rings on every finger qualify as too much distraction, as does some body jewelry. While jangly and dangly can be fun for casual wear, less is more when it comes to jewelry for work.
5. Wear to Work Mistake #5 - Jeans
Wear to work mistake #5 is wearing jeans. Although jeans are acceptable in certain workplaces and in others only on "casual Friday," they're not really up to code when it comes to business/casual attire because the workplace emphasis remains more on "business" than "casual." If wearing jeans is acceptable in your workplace, opt for dark wash jeans because not only does a darker color make women look slimmer, but it also makes us look taller. Dark jeans make for a neater look, always good to maintain for business.
6. Wear to Work Mistake #6 - Flip Flops
Wear to work mistake #6 is wearing flip flops. I love my flip flops and live in them in the summer--but not at work. Flip flops are far too casual to wear in the workplace unless you're working at the beach.
MY THOUGHTS
it's best to check the HR Policy on Dress Code. in the absence of one, ask. or simply use common sense. demonstrate your ability to manage yourself. show that you have business etiquette. it's an office. a workplace. not the beach or the mall. no matter how beautiful your shoes are what HR will notice is how inappropriate it is. there's a time and place for everything. decide to be a good follower. of policies. not of fashion. otherwise you will be creating unnecessary workplace stress. when that happens it will be difficult to find job satisfaction. dress appropriately. that's etiquette 101. so, if you're not jobless, clear your closet and be ready to come to work as a professional.
6 Wear to Work Mistakes to Avoid
By Paula Darnell, About.com Guide
With our lifestyles more casual than ever and business wear blurring with casual attire in many workplaces, it's no wonder that women sometimes have difficulty determining what they should wear to work. To keep work attire appropriate, avoid these six wear to work mistakes.
1. Wear to Work Mistake #1 - Short Skirts
Wear to work mistake #1 is wearing a skirt or dress that's too short. Even if you look fabulous in very short skirts, save the minis for date night or other occasions outside of the workplace. Short women especially need to be mindful that a mini-skirt may make them look girlish (if not sexy), and that's a look to avoid in a business setting where women want to be taken seriously. Stilettos
2. Wear to Work Mistake #2 - Cleavage Showing
Wear to work mistake #2 is showing cleavage. Even Hillary Clinton, who's known more for wearing business/formal pantsuits than sexy tops, took some flack from commentators for cleavage showing during a Senate speech in 2008. This is another look that's too sexy for the office and best saved for non-work occasions.
3. Wear to work mistake #3 is wearing sky-high stilettos. While high heels are fine for the workplace, and most petites enjoy the extra height, when heels are too high, they read as too sexy. Another downside is that very high stilettos are terribly uncomfortable to wear all day. Recently I was at the bank, and I noticed that one of the officers was tottering around on 6-inch stilettos. She could barely walk in her beautiful shoes. The best look for business: sleek shoes with a heel height that you can live in for a day's work.
4. Wear to Work Mistake #4 - Distracting Jewelry
Wear to work mistake #4 is wearing distracting jewelry. Huge hoops or chandelier earrings, an armful of bangles, big statement necklaces, or rings on every finger qualify as too much distraction, as does some body jewelry. While jangly and dangly can be fun for casual wear, less is more when it comes to jewelry for work.
5. Wear to Work Mistake #5 - Jeans
Wear to work mistake #5 is wearing jeans. Although jeans are acceptable in certain workplaces and in others only on "casual Friday," they're not really up to code when it comes to business/casual attire because the workplace emphasis remains more on "business" than "casual." If wearing jeans is acceptable in your workplace, opt for dark wash jeans because not only does a darker color make women look slimmer, but it also makes us look taller. Dark jeans make for a neater look, always good to maintain for business.
6. Wear to Work Mistake #6 - Flip Flops
Wear to work mistake #6 is wearing flip flops. I love my flip flops and live in them in the summer--but not at work. Flip flops are far too casual to wear in the workplace unless you're working at the beach.
MY THOUGHTS
it's best to check the HR Policy on Dress Code. in the absence of one, ask. or simply use common sense. demonstrate your ability to manage yourself. show that you have business etiquette. it's an office. a workplace. not the beach or the mall. no matter how beautiful your shoes are what HR will notice is how inappropriate it is. there's a time and place for everything. decide to be a good follower. of policies. not of fashion. otherwise you will be creating unnecessary workplace stress. when that happens it will be difficult to find job satisfaction. dress appropriately. that's etiquette 101. so, if you're not jobless, clear your closet and be ready to come to work as a professional.
Friday, November 5, 2010
How ToP Polish your Beautiful Shoes
Polishing Shoes
Polishing and Cleaning Tips for Your Leather, Suede and Nubuck Shoes
From LifeWire
Love shoes? Chances are you’ve got a fair amount of money sitting in the bottom of your closet. Shoe care -- cleaning and polishing -- is the best thing you can do to protect your investment and extend the life of your footwear.
What You Need for Polishing Shoes
Only a few items are necessary to keep your footwear in tip-top shape:
* Natural bristle brush
* Old toothbrush
* Wax or cream polish
* Soft cloth or rag
* Newspaper or an old sheet
Polishing Leather Shoes
Select a polish that matches your shoe color. Polishes that contain dyes, pigments, wax and conditioning agents keep footwear looking fresh, add shine and cover scuffs. They are available as liquids, pastes and creams. Although liquid polishes, with their foam applicator tops, are easiest to work with, shoe repair experts recommend the protection and conditioning offered by creams and pastes -- liquid polishes can dry out shoe leather and cause cracking.
Remove the laces. Use a brush or damp cloth to clean dust or dirt from the shoe, heel and sole. With a soft cloth, apply a small amount of polish in a circular pattern. An old toothbrush is useful for getting polish into small or tight areas. Place the polished shoes on newspaper or an old sheet to dry. When the shoe is dry, usually after about 15 minutes, brush with a natural bristle brush, then buff to a shine with a clean rag. If you are polishing several pairs of shoes, be sure to use a different brush and rags for each color of polish.
Cleaning Suede and Nubuck Shoes
Shoes with a nap, such as suede or nubuck, can’t be polished. According to the Shoe Service Institute of America, preventive maintenance is the key to keeping these types of shoes in top shape. After purchasing a pair of suede or nubuck shoes, you’ll first want to apply a protectant to repel water and stains. However, repellant only lasts for a while, so you’ll need to reapply it periodically. Gently brush suede and nubuck footwear to remove loose dirt and restore nap on a regular basis. If you own a pair of oiled nubuck shoes, you may also want to apply conditioner to preserve them. Stains should be treated immediately with a solvent-based suede cleaner. If they prove hard to remove, take the shoe to a shoe repair professional.
Caring for Athletic Shoes and Sneakers
Athletic shoes with fabric or suede uppers and trim can be cleaned the same way you clean your suede or nubuck shoes. Special sneaker shampoos, used with brush applicators, do a good job of cleaning stains and dirt from leather sneakers. Cover scuff marks with matching polish. Sneakers made from canvas, such as Converse All Stars, can be washed by hand using a toothbrush, mild soap and water.
MY THOUGHTS
i love beautiful shoes. i don't love cleaning them. but because i love these beautiful shoes i will have to make a habit of cleaning them.
Polishing and Cleaning Tips for Your Leather, Suede and Nubuck Shoes
From LifeWire
Love shoes? Chances are you’ve got a fair amount of money sitting in the bottom of your closet. Shoe care -- cleaning and polishing -- is the best thing you can do to protect your investment and extend the life of your footwear.
What You Need for Polishing Shoes
Only a few items are necessary to keep your footwear in tip-top shape:
* Natural bristle brush
* Old toothbrush
* Wax or cream polish
* Soft cloth or rag
* Newspaper or an old sheet
Polishing Leather Shoes
Select a polish that matches your shoe color. Polishes that contain dyes, pigments, wax and conditioning agents keep footwear looking fresh, add shine and cover scuffs. They are available as liquids, pastes and creams. Although liquid polishes, with their foam applicator tops, are easiest to work with, shoe repair experts recommend the protection and conditioning offered by creams and pastes -- liquid polishes can dry out shoe leather and cause cracking.
Remove the laces. Use a brush or damp cloth to clean dust or dirt from the shoe, heel and sole. With a soft cloth, apply a small amount of polish in a circular pattern. An old toothbrush is useful for getting polish into small or tight areas. Place the polished shoes on newspaper or an old sheet to dry. When the shoe is dry, usually after about 15 minutes, brush with a natural bristle brush, then buff to a shine with a clean rag. If you are polishing several pairs of shoes, be sure to use a different brush and rags for each color of polish.
Cleaning Suede and Nubuck Shoes
Shoes with a nap, such as suede or nubuck, can’t be polished. According to the Shoe Service Institute of America, preventive maintenance is the key to keeping these types of shoes in top shape. After purchasing a pair of suede or nubuck shoes, you’ll first want to apply a protectant to repel water and stains. However, repellant only lasts for a while, so you’ll need to reapply it periodically. Gently brush suede and nubuck footwear to remove loose dirt and restore nap on a regular basis. If you own a pair of oiled nubuck shoes, you may also want to apply conditioner to preserve them. Stains should be treated immediately with a solvent-based suede cleaner. If they prove hard to remove, take the shoe to a shoe repair professional.
Caring for Athletic Shoes and Sneakers
Athletic shoes with fabric or suede uppers and trim can be cleaned the same way you clean your suede or nubuck shoes. Special sneaker shampoos, used with brush applicators, do a good job of cleaning stains and dirt from leather sneakers. Cover scuff marks with matching polish. Sneakers made from canvas, such as Converse All Stars, can be washed by hand using a toothbrush, mild soap and water.
MY THOUGHTS
i love beautiful shoes. i don't love cleaning them. but because i love these beautiful shoes i will have to make a habit of cleaning them.
Ballerina Flats: A Must Have in Your Collection of Beautiful Shoes
Ballerina Flats
What to Wear with Ballerina Flats
By Desiree Stimpert, About.com Guide
It used to be that ballerina flats were what they sounded like - flat shoes that looked like ballet slippers. And in the strictest sense of the term, that definition is still correct. But now you can find everything from sneakers to evening shoes that are inspired by ballet slippers, and hence could be called ballerina flats.
Being heelless, ballerina flats have a tendency to make ones legs appear shorter, so petite women may want to steer clear, or pair them with a shorter skirt, extending the amount of leg that is shown. Because of this same quality, skimmers are especially great on women of medium height or taller.
Ballerina flats with satin or embellished uppers can seem especially dressy and elegant, while leather skimmers are a bit more casual and are great for pairing with jeans and shorts. If you're looking for a fun, sporty look, a casual canvas skimmer is adorable with capris, shorts and short denim skirts.
What to Wear with Ballerina Flats
•Capri Pants
•Leggings
•Shorts
•Skirts with hemline at or above the knee.
Apparel to Avoid
•Pants that are too long.
•Pleated pants with narrow legs. This will make your mid section appear bigger, while making your legs seem shorter.
Wearing ballet flats with longer skirts and dresses can create a romanticly feminine silhouette, but will make short women appear shorter.
MY THOUGHTS
the only time i got to wear ballet shoes was in grade school. now i can wear these beautiful shoes whenever i want to. they are so pretty and so comfy i think they will forever be part of a beautiful shoe collection.
What to Wear with Ballerina Flats
By Desiree Stimpert, About.com Guide
It used to be that ballerina flats were what they sounded like - flat shoes that looked like ballet slippers. And in the strictest sense of the term, that definition is still correct. But now you can find everything from sneakers to evening shoes that are inspired by ballet slippers, and hence could be called ballerina flats.
Being heelless, ballerina flats have a tendency to make ones legs appear shorter, so petite women may want to steer clear, or pair them with a shorter skirt, extending the amount of leg that is shown. Because of this same quality, skimmers are especially great on women of medium height or taller.
Ballerina flats with satin or embellished uppers can seem especially dressy and elegant, while leather skimmers are a bit more casual and are great for pairing with jeans and shorts. If you're looking for a fun, sporty look, a casual canvas skimmer is adorable with capris, shorts and short denim skirts.
What to Wear with Ballerina Flats
•Capri Pants
•Leggings
•Shorts
•Skirts with hemline at or above the knee.
Apparel to Avoid
•Pants that are too long.
•Pleated pants with narrow legs. This will make your mid section appear bigger, while making your legs seem shorter.
Wearing ballet flats with longer skirts and dresses can create a romanticly feminine silhouette, but will make short women appear shorter.
MY THOUGHTS
the only time i got to wear ballet shoes was in grade school. now i can wear these beautiful shoes whenever i want to. they are so pretty and so comfy i think they will forever be part of a beautiful shoe collection.
Beautiful Shoes: Tipsfor Making Flats Look Fabulous
Women's Flats - Tips for Making Flats Look Fabulous
Make Sure Your Flat Shoes Look Fashionable
By Desiree Stimpert, About.com Guide
Many women have either vowed to only wear flats, while other women have banished them from their wardrobe entirely. While this decision often has to do with the height of the wearer, neither extreme is necessary -- no matter how short or tall you are.
Flats should have a place in every woman's wardrobe. If worn correctly, flat shoes can be as stylish and fun as their high-heeled counterparts, and they often have the advantage of comfort that high heels will never beat.
So, whether you're short, tall, or somewhere in between, give your feet a break every once in a while and slip into a pair of comfortable flats. Use the following guidelines to be sure that your fashion-rating is high even when your heels aren't.
Look for Flats with Style
Since flats usually aren't as dynamic as heels, look for flats in fashionable colors, lush materials and rich textures to help jazz up your look without having to resort to higher heels.
Accents like buckles, straps, gems or bows can also add a lot of interest to a pair of flats, although it's best not to go overboard with embellishments. When it comes to flats, a chic look is typically better than a quirky one, and it's a lot more versatile as well.
Dress Up Simple Flats for an Ultra-Feminine Look
To make up for the simple styling of many flats, consider prettying up your outfit with ultra-feminine wrap tops, flared sleeves and layered shirts to help convey a head to toe "ballerina" look.
Flats and Skirts
Having no heel on your shoes can make your legs appear shorter. If wearing flats with skirts, shoot for a hemline that is above the knee, to regain a look of length to your leg. Wearing flats with longer skirts can give you a dowdy appearance.
The Right Pants for The Shoes
Capri pants and flats are a match made in heaven, but if you're wearing long pants, make sure they aren't too long. Having the hem of your jeans or slacks drag the floor, not only looks sloppy, it's also a great way to ruin a pair of pants.
Unless you're ultra-thin, you should avoid wearing really tight pants or skinny jeans with flats, as this can sometimes look frumpy and call attention to parts of your body you'd rather not emphasize.
Instead, consider pairing flared or wide-legged pants with with pointed-toe flats for an ultra-stylish look.
MY THOUGHTS
i learned to appreciate flats when my doctor advised me to avoid wearing high-heeled shoes because the latter affects blood circulation in my legs and thighs. now,i simply love flats - to me they are beautiful shoes - comfy, goes with capri (love 'em, too), made for walking. can't remember the last time i bought heels.
Make Sure Your Flat Shoes Look Fashionable
By Desiree Stimpert, About.com Guide
Many women have either vowed to only wear flats, while other women have banished them from their wardrobe entirely. While this decision often has to do with the height of the wearer, neither extreme is necessary -- no matter how short or tall you are.
Flats should have a place in every woman's wardrobe. If worn correctly, flat shoes can be as stylish and fun as their high-heeled counterparts, and they often have the advantage of comfort that high heels will never beat.
So, whether you're short, tall, or somewhere in between, give your feet a break every once in a while and slip into a pair of comfortable flats. Use the following guidelines to be sure that your fashion-rating is high even when your heels aren't.
Look for Flats with Style
Since flats usually aren't as dynamic as heels, look for flats in fashionable colors, lush materials and rich textures to help jazz up your look without having to resort to higher heels.
Accents like buckles, straps, gems or bows can also add a lot of interest to a pair of flats, although it's best not to go overboard with embellishments. When it comes to flats, a chic look is typically better than a quirky one, and it's a lot more versatile as well.
Dress Up Simple Flats for an Ultra-Feminine Look
To make up for the simple styling of many flats, consider prettying up your outfit with ultra-feminine wrap tops, flared sleeves and layered shirts to help convey a head to toe "ballerina" look.
Flats and Skirts
Having no heel on your shoes can make your legs appear shorter. If wearing flats with skirts, shoot for a hemline that is above the knee, to regain a look of length to your leg. Wearing flats with longer skirts can give you a dowdy appearance.
The Right Pants for The Shoes
Capri pants and flats are a match made in heaven, but if you're wearing long pants, make sure they aren't too long. Having the hem of your jeans or slacks drag the floor, not only looks sloppy, it's also a great way to ruin a pair of pants.
Unless you're ultra-thin, you should avoid wearing really tight pants or skinny jeans with flats, as this can sometimes look frumpy and call attention to parts of your body you'd rather not emphasize.
Instead, consider pairing flared or wide-legged pants with with pointed-toe flats for an ultra-stylish look.
MY THOUGHTS
i learned to appreciate flats when my doctor advised me to avoid wearing high-heeled shoes because the latter affects blood circulation in my legs and thighs. now,i simply love flats - to me they are beautiful shoes - comfy, goes with capri (love 'em, too), made for walking. can't remember the last time i bought heels.
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Are your Beautiful Shoes Water Damaged? Here's What To Do
Water-Damaged Shoes
How to Save Your Shoes From Water Damage
By Craig Playstead, About.com Contributing Writer
Whether you get caught in a downpour or a three year old throws your favorite shoes into a swimming pool, at some point your shoes will have water damage. The important thing is to know how to save your shoes from water damage. It can be done.
Take these easy steps and you have a great shot at making sure your favorite pair of boots or loafers live to walk another day.
1. Cleaning the Insoles of Shoes Damaged by Water
The first thing you want to do when your shoes have water damage is to remove the insoles (assuming your shoes have removable insoles). If you think they can take a spin in the washing machine then give it a shot, but if they're just wet, hang dry them in the laundry room. Never put them in the dryer though. We don't want any direct heat on any part of the shoes.
2. Removing Dirt and Mud from Water-Damaged Shoes
The next thing you need to do is to remove any dirt or mud. Take a stiff brush and clean everything off of them. If it's mud, you might have to dab and then wipe them down with a rag first, and then really use the brush to get inside of the nooks and crannies. Especially where the leather meets the sole. That is a prime area that dirt and residue will gather.
3. Dry Soaked Shoes with a Newspaper
After you have them somewhat free of any dirt or grime, get a newspaper. Wad up smaller pieces and then stuff your shoes full. Yes, even use the sports page -- don't be bashful. The newspaper will draw out any moisture in your shoes and attempt to save them. Again, we don't want any direct heat on any part of the shoe so don't put them over a heater or in the dryer. It will dry out the leather and lead to cracking and ruin the shoe.
Now, have a little patience and let your shoes dry on their own -- they'll be good as new in no time. If you have sneakers that are really dirty and nothing else works, I've been known to throw them in the washing machine for a spin. I figure a good pair of running shoes has one good wash in them.
If you have nice leather or suede shoes, make sure you are protecting them with a suede or leather spray before going out into any harsh weather. That will make cleaning and getting them back to normal a snap.
MY THOUGHTS
i thought throwing my sneakers in the washing machine is pure laziness. i feel so much better i'm not alone. it works, you know.
How to Save Your Shoes From Water Damage
By Craig Playstead, About.com Contributing Writer
Whether you get caught in a downpour or a three year old throws your favorite shoes into a swimming pool, at some point your shoes will have water damage. The important thing is to know how to save your shoes from water damage. It can be done.
Take these easy steps and you have a great shot at making sure your favorite pair of boots or loafers live to walk another day.
1. Cleaning the Insoles of Shoes Damaged by Water
The first thing you want to do when your shoes have water damage is to remove the insoles (assuming your shoes have removable insoles). If you think they can take a spin in the washing machine then give it a shot, but if they're just wet, hang dry them in the laundry room. Never put them in the dryer though. We don't want any direct heat on any part of the shoes.
2. Removing Dirt and Mud from Water-Damaged Shoes
The next thing you need to do is to remove any dirt or mud. Take a stiff brush and clean everything off of them. If it's mud, you might have to dab and then wipe them down with a rag first, and then really use the brush to get inside of the nooks and crannies. Especially where the leather meets the sole. That is a prime area that dirt and residue will gather.
3. Dry Soaked Shoes with a Newspaper
After you have them somewhat free of any dirt or grime, get a newspaper. Wad up smaller pieces and then stuff your shoes full. Yes, even use the sports page -- don't be bashful. The newspaper will draw out any moisture in your shoes and attempt to save them. Again, we don't want any direct heat on any part of the shoe so don't put them over a heater or in the dryer. It will dry out the leather and lead to cracking and ruin the shoe.
Now, have a little patience and let your shoes dry on their own -- they'll be good as new in no time. If you have sneakers that are really dirty and nothing else works, I've been known to throw them in the washing machine for a spin. I figure a good pair of running shoes has one good wash in them.
If you have nice leather or suede shoes, make sure you are protecting them with a suede or leather spray before going out into any harsh weather. That will make cleaning and getting them back to normal a snap.
MY THOUGHTS
i thought throwing my sneakers in the washing machine is pure laziness. i feel so much better i'm not alone. it works, you know.
Beautiful Shoes for Long Skirts
The Best Shoes for Long Skirts and Dresses
While there's no doubt that short skirts are sexy, long skirts can be sexy and so much more: romantic, polished, classic, laid-back, or even powerful. But whatever look you're trying to pull together, pairing the wrong shoes with a long skirt can blow the whole effect.
Fortunately, the shoe rules for long skirts are much simpler than you might think. In fact, it's really just a balancing act.
Longer skirts and dresses cover the majority of your body. To create a look that is flowing rather than broken or unbalanced, your footwear will need to accomplish one of the following three things:
1.Visually become a part of the skirt. Think of tall boots that are covered by the hemline of the skirt
2.Add length or height beneath the hemline of the skirt, so that the skirt will seem shorter, or your legs will seem longer. High heels that show a lot of skin work well for this.
3.Work with the lines of the skirt to create a look that is balanced. For example, a chunky wedge heel will work with a fuller skirt, but might be too clunky for a long fitted skirt.
For a closer look at which shoe styles will work best with long skirts and dresses, check out the rest of the photo gallery.
Wedge Shoes
The wedge sandals and flared skirt shown here are a perfect combination, since the casual nature of the sandals are an ideal match for the denim skirt.
Wedges are a great choice for long skirts that have a bit of fullness at the hemline, but they can look too heavy for skirts that are very narrow.
More top shoe styles for long, flared skirts include:
•low cut pumps.
•tall, fitted boots (heeled or flat).
•tall slouch boots (heeled or flat).
•strappy sandals.
Shoe styles that can be problematic with long, flared skirts:
•Ballet flats. They can make your legs seem shorter and heavier.
•Heavy or bulky shoes, as they can often convert to very matronly or clunky look.
Thong Sandals
Here, thong sandals are used to give this full long skirt a laid-back, casual look that's ideal for warm weather, beach vacations, or events that call for a great look that's neither too casual or too dressy.
Flats paired with long skirts can sometimes be a problematic combination, as they can make your legs appear shorter and heavier. But since the skirt here is very long and full, and the shoes are very skimpy, the look really works.
Other top shoe styles for skirts like this are:
•wedge sandals.
•tall, heeled boots.
•strappy sandals with high heels
•Ankle boots that are short enough to still show some leg. This can make your calves look very thick.
Strappy Sandals
Choosing the right shoes for a long skirt is relatively easy if you keep in mind that you want to either minimize the amount of skin that you show (as you would with tall boots), or maximize the amount of skin you show (as you would with strappy sandals).
The strappy sandals shown here are a great example of the right kind of shoes to wear with a mid-length or long full skirt.
Platform Shoes
Platform shoes work well with long skirts because of the additional height under the front of the shoes. But since platform shoes have an inherent "chunky" look to them, it's important to choose a style that complements the skirt instead of one that will trample on it.
Towards that end, there are two good ways to go.
1.Choose a pair of shoes that expose a lot of the foot, like the ones shown here. Other platforms that would work include sandals with thin straps, pumps with a low cut vamp, or other shoes with open toes.
2.In cooler weather, choose a pair of boots that is tall enough to leave no leg showing. This will create a long, lean, and very polished look.
High Heels
As I've discussed on other pages of this gallery, there are some flats that will work with long skirts, but high heels are definitely an easier choice -- especially when it comes to dressier skirts like this one.
In addition to adding overall height and lengthening your profile, high heels also raise the back of your foot, which means more shoe or foot can be seen from the front. As an added bonus, they help to counter the shortening and widening effects of many long skirts.
Your heels don't have to be exceptionally high to work.
Strappy or low cut kitten heels can look smashing with long skirts if you remember the basic rules, and avoid shoes that will create a broken, blocky look.
Women who aren't comfortable in high heels, may want to consider wedge shoes or platform shoes, both of which many women find easier to wear and walk in.
And if you really, really hate heels, be sure to check out my tips for wearing long skirts with flat sandals.
Flat Sandals
http://shoes.about.com/od/womens_shoes/ig/The-Best-Shoes-for-Long-Skirts/Flat-Sandals.-0Z4.htm
Unless you're model-thin or extremely tall, it's difficult to pull off wearing ballet flats or other flat shoes with long skirts.
Heavy, bulky, or closed flats paired with a long skirt can often create a shorter, wider, and overall frumpy appearance -- exactly the look most of us are trying to avoid.
But, if the flats in question happen to be strappy sandals, then it's a completely different story.
Skimpy flat sandals work well with longer skirts because they show a lot of skin beneath the hemline. This actually makes the skirt seem shorter -- or the legs seem longer. But whatever the case, skimpy flat sandals are a winning look with casual long skirts.
Tall Boots
Tall boots and long skirts are a cool weather natural, but there are more options for casual long skirts than there are for dressy ones.
In either case, the safest choice is choosing boots that are tall enough to be covered by the hemline of the skirt. This will keep the lines of your outfit long and lean.
For casual long skirts, let the fullness of the skirt be your guide.
Slouchy, heeled, flat, and even chunky tall boots will work with a fuller skirt like the one shown here, while long narrow skirts work best with heeled and close-fitting boot styles
Dress Boots
http://shoes.about.com/od/womens_shoes/ig/The-Best-Shoes-for-Long-Skirts/Dress-Boots.htm
When you're looking for footwear that works well with long skirts, don't forget to consider dress boots.
While the outfit shown here is too dressy for most flat or slouched styles, tall boots with heels lend a look of continuity to the skirt, while still being dressy enough for nearly any occasion.
MY THOUGHTS
i'm not too fond of long skirts. when i do wear them, i like pairing htem up with the skimpy flat sandals. actually depends on the style of the long skirt.
While there's no doubt that short skirts are sexy, long skirts can be sexy and so much more: romantic, polished, classic, laid-back, or even powerful. But whatever look you're trying to pull together, pairing the wrong shoes with a long skirt can blow the whole effect.
Fortunately, the shoe rules for long skirts are much simpler than you might think. In fact, it's really just a balancing act.
Longer skirts and dresses cover the majority of your body. To create a look that is flowing rather than broken or unbalanced, your footwear will need to accomplish one of the following three things:
1.Visually become a part of the skirt. Think of tall boots that are covered by the hemline of the skirt
2.Add length or height beneath the hemline of the skirt, so that the skirt will seem shorter, or your legs will seem longer. High heels that show a lot of skin work well for this.
3.Work with the lines of the skirt to create a look that is balanced. For example, a chunky wedge heel will work with a fuller skirt, but might be too clunky for a long fitted skirt.
For a closer look at which shoe styles will work best with long skirts and dresses, check out the rest of the photo gallery.
Wedge Shoes
The wedge sandals and flared skirt shown here are a perfect combination, since the casual nature of the sandals are an ideal match for the denim skirt.
Wedges are a great choice for long skirts that have a bit of fullness at the hemline, but they can look too heavy for skirts that are very narrow.
More top shoe styles for long, flared skirts include:
•low cut pumps.
•tall, fitted boots (heeled or flat).
•tall slouch boots (heeled or flat).
•strappy sandals.
Shoe styles that can be problematic with long, flared skirts:
•Ballet flats. They can make your legs seem shorter and heavier.
•Heavy or bulky shoes, as they can often convert to very matronly or clunky look.
Thong Sandals
Here, thong sandals are used to give this full long skirt a laid-back, casual look that's ideal for warm weather, beach vacations, or events that call for a great look that's neither too casual or too dressy.
Flats paired with long skirts can sometimes be a problematic combination, as they can make your legs appear shorter and heavier. But since the skirt here is very long and full, and the shoes are very skimpy, the look really works.
Other top shoe styles for skirts like this are:
•wedge sandals.
•tall, heeled boots.
•strappy sandals with high heels
•Ankle boots that are short enough to still show some leg. This can make your calves look very thick.
Strappy Sandals
Choosing the right shoes for a long skirt is relatively easy if you keep in mind that you want to either minimize the amount of skin that you show (as you would with tall boots), or maximize the amount of skin you show (as you would with strappy sandals).
The strappy sandals shown here are a great example of the right kind of shoes to wear with a mid-length or long full skirt.
Platform Shoes
Platform shoes work well with long skirts because of the additional height under the front of the shoes. But since platform shoes have an inherent "chunky" look to them, it's important to choose a style that complements the skirt instead of one that will trample on it.
Towards that end, there are two good ways to go.
1.Choose a pair of shoes that expose a lot of the foot, like the ones shown here. Other platforms that would work include sandals with thin straps, pumps with a low cut vamp, or other shoes with open toes.
2.In cooler weather, choose a pair of boots that is tall enough to leave no leg showing. This will create a long, lean, and very polished look.
High Heels
As I've discussed on other pages of this gallery, there are some flats that will work with long skirts, but high heels are definitely an easier choice -- especially when it comes to dressier skirts like this one.
In addition to adding overall height and lengthening your profile, high heels also raise the back of your foot, which means more shoe or foot can be seen from the front. As an added bonus, they help to counter the shortening and widening effects of many long skirts.
Your heels don't have to be exceptionally high to work.
Strappy or low cut kitten heels can look smashing with long skirts if you remember the basic rules, and avoid shoes that will create a broken, blocky look.
Women who aren't comfortable in high heels, may want to consider wedge shoes or platform shoes, both of which many women find easier to wear and walk in.
And if you really, really hate heels, be sure to check out my tips for wearing long skirts with flat sandals.
Flat Sandals
http://shoes.about.com/od/womens_shoes/ig/The-Best-Shoes-for-Long-Skirts/Flat-Sandals.-0Z4.htm
Unless you're model-thin or extremely tall, it's difficult to pull off wearing ballet flats or other flat shoes with long skirts.
Heavy, bulky, or closed flats paired with a long skirt can often create a shorter, wider, and overall frumpy appearance -- exactly the look most of us are trying to avoid.
But, if the flats in question happen to be strappy sandals, then it's a completely different story.
Skimpy flat sandals work well with longer skirts because they show a lot of skin beneath the hemline. This actually makes the skirt seem shorter -- or the legs seem longer. But whatever the case, skimpy flat sandals are a winning look with casual long skirts.
Tall Boots
Tall boots and long skirts are a cool weather natural, but there are more options for casual long skirts than there are for dressy ones.
In either case, the safest choice is choosing boots that are tall enough to be covered by the hemline of the skirt. This will keep the lines of your outfit long and lean.
For casual long skirts, let the fullness of the skirt be your guide.
Slouchy, heeled, flat, and even chunky tall boots will work with a fuller skirt like the one shown here, while long narrow skirts work best with heeled and close-fitting boot styles
Dress Boots
http://shoes.about.com/od/womens_shoes/ig/The-Best-Shoes-for-Long-Skirts/Dress-Boots.htm
When you're looking for footwear that works well with long skirts, don't forget to consider dress boots.
While the outfit shown here is too dressy for most flat or slouched styles, tall boots with heels lend a look of continuity to the skirt, while still being dressy enough for nearly any occasion.
MY THOUGHTS
i'm not too fond of long skirts. when i do wear them, i like pairing htem up with the skimpy flat sandals. actually depends on the style of the long skirt.
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Beautiful Shoes for Skinny Jeans
Shoes for Skinny Jeans
The Best Shoes for Skinny Jeans
By Desiree Stimpert, About.com Guide
Just hearing the term "skinny jeans" is enough to send a lot of women into hiding, because they're so ... well, skinny -- surely they're going to call attention to every flaw we've worked so hard to hide. But be that as it may, the popularity of skinny jeans seems to rise and fall every few years or so. Which means, every few years or so, we're going to have to decide whether or not we're going to wear them, and if we do, what we're going to wear with them.
There are lots of tops you can pair with skinny jeans that will make them more flattering. But skinny jeans are the least forgiving clothing item I can think of, so even if you find the perfect shirt to wear with them, your outfit will be ruined if you choose the wrong footwear.
To insure that doesn't happen, check out my picks below for some of the best (and worst) shoes to wear with skinny jeans.
Flat Shoes with Skinny Jeans
If you have long legs and narrow hips, ballet flats and skimmers are great for pairing with skinny jeans. Since they're not at all bulky, they won't stand out or call too much attention to your feet, and they also help continue the lean silhouette created by the skinny jeans.
Flats with pointy toes are also a good option, but only if you're not self-conscious about the size of your feet. While the look is ultra-slimming, shoes with pointy toes can also make your feet look very long -- and they're not always the most comfortable choice either.
If you're not long and lean, pairing flats with skinny jeans only emphasizes that fact.
Wearing Boots with Skinny Jeans
Skinny jeans were practically made for tucking into boots -- and there are very few boot styles that don't work with them.
Tall, wider boots with lower heels are the easiest to pull off because they will actually make your denim-coated legs look thinner, but ankle boots and heeled boots can work well too. Just remember to avoid boots that are both short and bulky. Since skinny jeans are so form-fitting, they can be easily overwhelmed, and boots that are too hefty will call too much attention to your footwear, and not enough to your entire outfit.
Booties and Skinny Jeans
Booties with skinny jeans can be hit or miss, but generally speaking, they're a good choice. The easiest way to pull them off is to remember that it's a balancing act: if the booties have platform soles or chunky heels, you need a bit of volume on top as well. If you're going for a slim head-to-toe look, try a more refined bootie with less bulk.
Skinny Jeans and Heels
Basic pumps with slightly pointed toes work best with skinny jeans, but if you're not wafer-thin, you need to give consideration to the rest of your outfit as well.
Wearing high heels with skinny jeans helps to elongate the legs, so it's natural that shorter women, and those with a few curves, would be attracted to the combination. But wearing skinny jeans with stilettos also creates a very narrow "base," which of course means the middle of your body is going to look bigger by comparison.
If you want to avoid calling too much attention to your thighs and hips, or looking too much like a 50s pin-up girl, try adding a top that extends to at least your hips. Simple mini dresses, long casual tops, loosely-belted shirts, and longer jackets all work well with skinny jeans and heels.
Choosing Sneakers for Skinny Jeans
A popular combination since the 1950s, skinny jeans and sneakers can offer a cool and casual look, but some sneaker styles work better than others. Puffy cross-trainers are far too weighty for skinny jeans, but trim low tops look cute with fitted denim, and on the right person, even old-school high tops can add a fun touch to skinny jeans.
MY THOUGHTS
well, i'm not much for skinny jeans. but if you want to get away wearing one, choose the best beautiful shoes for the outfit.
The Best Shoes for Skinny Jeans
By Desiree Stimpert, About.com Guide
Just hearing the term "skinny jeans" is enough to send a lot of women into hiding, because they're so ... well, skinny -- surely they're going to call attention to every flaw we've worked so hard to hide. But be that as it may, the popularity of skinny jeans seems to rise and fall every few years or so. Which means, every few years or so, we're going to have to decide whether or not we're going to wear them, and if we do, what we're going to wear with them.
There are lots of tops you can pair with skinny jeans that will make them more flattering. But skinny jeans are the least forgiving clothing item I can think of, so even if you find the perfect shirt to wear with them, your outfit will be ruined if you choose the wrong footwear.
To insure that doesn't happen, check out my picks below for some of the best (and worst) shoes to wear with skinny jeans.
Flat Shoes with Skinny Jeans
If you have long legs and narrow hips, ballet flats and skimmers are great for pairing with skinny jeans. Since they're not at all bulky, they won't stand out or call too much attention to your feet, and they also help continue the lean silhouette created by the skinny jeans.
Flats with pointy toes are also a good option, but only if you're not self-conscious about the size of your feet. While the look is ultra-slimming, shoes with pointy toes can also make your feet look very long -- and they're not always the most comfortable choice either.
If you're not long and lean, pairing flats with skinny jeans only emphasizes that fact.
Wearing Boots with Skinny Jeans
Skinny jeans were practically made for tucking into boots -- and there are very few boot styles that don't work with them.
Tall, wider boots with lower heels are the easiest to pull off because they will actually make your denim-coated legs look thinner, but ankle boots and heeled boots can work well too. Just remember to avoid boots that are both short and bulky. Since skinny jeans are so form-fitting, they can be easily overwhelmed, and boots that are too hefty will call too much attention to your footwear, and not enough to your entire outfit.
Booties and Skinny Jeans
Booties with skinny jeans can be hit or miss, but generally speaking, they're a good choice. The easiest way to pull them off is to remember that it's a balancing act: if the booties have platform soles or chunky heels, you need a bit of volume on top as well. If you're going for a slim head-to-toe look, try a more refined bootie with less bulk.
Skinny Jeans and Heels
Basic pumps with slightly pointed toes work best with skinny jeans, but if you're not wafer-thin, you need to give consideration to the rest of your outfit as well.
Wearing high heels with skinny jeans helps to elongate the legs, so it's natural that shorter women, and those with a few curves, would be attracted to the combination. But wearing skinny jeans with stilettos also creates a very narrow "base," which of course means the middle of your body is going to look bigger by comparison.
If you want to avoid calling too much attention to your thighs and hips, or looking too much like a 50s pin-up girl, try adding a top that extends to at least your hips. Simple mini dresses, long casual tops, loosely-belted shirts, and longer jackets all work well with skinny jeans and heels.
Choosing Sneakers for Skinny Jeans
A popular combination since the 1950s, skinny jeans and sneakers can offer a cool and casual look, but some sneaker styles work better than others. Puffy cross-trainers are far too weighty for skinny jeans, but trim low tops look cute with fitted denim, and on the right person, even old-school high tops can add a fun touch to skinny jeans.
MY THOUGHTS
well, i'm not much for skinny jeans. but if you want to get away wearing one, choose the best beautiful shoes for the outfit.
Beautiful Shoes for Short Shorts
The Best Shoes for Short Shorts
By Desiree Stimpert, About.com Guide
Short shorts can be more flattering than a lot of women think -- especially when they're paired with the right shoes.
Making Short Shorts Work for You
Short shorts have been a summertime staple for several decades. And while many women don't want to wear shorts this length, for others, it's just a matter of wanting to know how to wear them.
Below are some of the best shoe styles for shorts like this, as well as tips on how to make the whole look come together.
Ankle Strap Sandals
Sandals with ankle straps are just plain sexy, and they're an ideal match for short shorts. Dressier styles like the ones shown here are great for twill, linen and other dress shorts, while trendy platforms or sandals with chunky heels are ideal for pairing with denim.
Wedge Sandals
Since they show so much leg, short shorts can handle a more substantial heel, and wedge sandals are a great choice. But since wedge heels are somewhat bulky by nature, you'll want to choose styles that feature thinner straps or single band slides. This will keep your feet from looking too clunky.
Ballet Flats
If you want to spare your feet and back the pain of high heels, then you should love short shorts, as they're perfect for pairing with ballet flats.
Shoes like the ones shown here will lend a dressier touch, but these days it's also very easy to find canvas ballet flats for wearing with casual cotton or denim shorts.
Flat Sandals
Flat thongs, slides and toe-ring sandals all look great with short shorts. And with styles ranging from basic rubber flip-flops to crystal-encrusted metallic dress slides, there is no shortage of options.
When pairing short shorts with flat sandals, you nearly can't go wrong. The only thing to watch out for is flat sandals that have lots of really wide straps or really thick, sporty soles.
Unless you're very thin, heavy sandals can make your calves look very thick and squat, while skimpier style like the one shown here will give your legs a longer, slimmer appearance.
Canvas Sneakers
Canvas sneakers are far too casual for dressier shorts, but they're a super-cute partner for casual styles. A sneaker that shows a lot of foot will make for a more feminine look, while a lace-up sneaker will have an edgier vibe.
Espadrilles
A summertime favorite, espadrilles come in a variety of styles, and having rope-covered heels, they look great with shorts of nearly any length.
The style shown here is more on the classic side, and offers a very cosmopolitan look combined with the comfort of a low heel. If you can wear a higher heel, espadrille wedges with skimpy straps are also a great match for short shorts.
MY THOUGHTS
i should have read this article when i was younger. short shorts for me now are for strictly private.
By Desiree Stimpert, About.com Guide
Short shorts can be more flattering than a lot of women think -- especially when they're paired with the right shoes.
Making Short Shorts Work for You
Short shorts have been a summertime staple for several decades. And while many women don't want to wear shorts this length, for others, it's just a matter of wanting to know how to wear them.
Below are some of the best shoe styles for shorts like this, as well as tips on how to make the whole look come together.
Ankle Strap Sandals
Sandals with ankle straps are just plain sexy, and they're an ideal match for short shorts. Dressier styles like the ones shown here are great for twill, linen and other dress shorts, while trendy platforms or sandals with chunky heels are ideal for pairing with denim.
Wedge Sandals
Since they show so much leg, short shorts can handle a more substantial heel, and wedge sandals are a great choice. But since wedge heels are somewhat bulky by nature, you'll want to choose styles that feature thinner straps or single band slides. This will keep your feet from looking too clunky.
Ballet Flats
If you want to spare your feet and back the pain of high heels, then you should love short shorts, as they're perfect for pairing with ballet flats.
Shoes like the ones shown here will lend a dressier touch, but these days it's also very easy to find canvas ballet flats for wearing with casual cotton or denim shorts.
Flat Sandals
Flat thongs, slides and toe-ring sandals all look great with short shorts. And with styles ranging from basic rubber flip-flops to crystal-encrusted metallic dress slides, there is no shortage of options.
When pairing short shorts with flat sandals, you nearly can't go wrong. The only thing to watch out for is flat sandals that have lots of really wide straps or really thick, sporty soles.
Unless you're very thin, heavy sandals can make your calves look very thick and squat, while skimpier style like the one shown here will give your legs a longer, slimmer appearance.
Canvas Sneakers
Canvas sneakers are far too casual for dressier shorts, but they're a super-cute partner for casual styles. A sneaker that shows a lot of foot will make for a more feminine look, while a lace-up sneaker will have an edgier vibe.
Espadrilles
A summertime favorite, espadrilles come in a variety of styles, and having rope-covered heels, they look great with shorts of nearly any length.
The style shown here is more on the classic side, and offers a very cosmopolitan look combined with the comfort of a low heel. If you can wear a higher heel, espadrille wedges with skimpy straps are also a great match for short shorts.
MY THOUGHTS
i should have read this article when i was younger. short shorts for me now are for strictly private.
The Best Beautiful Shoes for Capri Pants
The Best Shoes for Capri Pants
By Desiree Stimpert, About.com Guide
While capri pants look great on some women, they often fall short on others. Body shape has a lot to do with how capri pants look, but another huge factor in wearing them successfully is pairing them with the right shoes.
Here are some of the best shoes to wear with capri pants, as well as a few of the worst options.
The Best Shoes for Capri Pants
•Ballerina Flats
Ballerina flats are the classic choice for pairing with capri pants -- and they're also my favorite option. Leather, satin, peep-toe, even sneakers can be had with ballerina/skimmer cut, and nearly any of them will work with capri pants because they're streamlined, fitted, and show a lot of the foot. This helps elongate the part of the leg that shows.
•Flat, Skimpy Thong Sandals
Skimpy, dainty, delicate flat sandals work well with capri pants for the same reason ballerina flats do: they show a lot of foot and elongate the legs. If you're going for a more dressy look, try embellished or metallic flat sandals, but if it's a carefree appearance you're after, anything from canvas to patent leather will do -- just remember to keep them light.
•Fitted Canvas Sneakers
In addition to low-cut, ballerina type sneakers, you can also pair capri pants with lace-up sneakers like classic Keds for a totally casual, beach-comber look.
Exercise Caution when Pairing the following Shoe Styles with Capris
•Wedges
A lot of women wear wedge shoes with capri pants, and though it occasionally works, I'm not a huge fan of the look for one simple reason: wedge heels are bulky. If I just can't pry the wedges out of your hands (or off of your feet), then at least look for styles that have very delicate uppers.
•Pumps
Pairing pumps with capri pants is another one of those "sometimes works" propositions, but for the most part, it creates a retro, "pin-up" vibe. If you've been trying to figure out how to cultivate that look, well, now you know -- but if you have no interest in looking like a Vargas girl, then you'll want to steer clear of wearing pumps with capri pants.
The Worst Shoes for Capri Pants
•Bulky Sneakers and Cross-Trainers
I see this look a lot at suburban shopping malls, and in a way I get it, it's all about comfort. But still, it's not a flattering look for anyone. If you love wearing capris and need to pair them with the most comfortable shoes you can find, try a pair of slim, canvas sneakers instead. If it's the cross-trainers you can't give up, try them with a pair of boot-cut yoga pants instead.
•Sandals with Heavy Straps
Whether they're flats or heels doesn't matter, sandals with really thick straps don't play well with capri pants; they're just too overwhelming for such a slim silhouette.
•Clogs
Try as a might, I just can't think of heavier-looking shoes than clogs -- which is fine if you're pairing them with jeans or pants. But whether they're rubber, wood or leather, they're way too bulky for capri pants.
MY THOUGHTS
i love capri pants. and i know for sure those bulky sneakers and clogs don't work.
By Desiree Stimpert, About.com Guide
While capri pants look great on some women, they often fall short on others. Body shape has a lot to do with how capri pants look, but another huge factor in wearing them successfully is pairing them with the right shoes.
Here are some of the best shoes to wear with capri pants, as well as a few of the worst options.
The Best Shoes for Capri Pants
•Ballerina Flats
Ballerina flats are the classic choice for pairing with capri pants -- and they're also my favorite option. Leather, satin, peep-toe, even sneakers can be had with ballerina/skimmer cut, and nearly any of them will work with capri pants because they're streamlined, fitted, and show a lot of the foot. This helps elongate the part of the leg that shows.
•Flat, Skimpy Thong Sandals
Skimpy, dainty, delicate flat sandals work well with capri pants for the same reason ballerina flats do: they show a lot of foot and elongate the legs. If you're going for a more dressy look, try embellished or metallic flat sandals, but if it's a carefree appearance you're after, anything from canvas to patent leather will do -- just remember to keep them light.
•Fitted Canvas Sneakers
In addition to low-cut, ballerina type sneakers, you can also pair capri pants with lace-up sneakers like classic Keds for a totally casual, beach-comber look.
Exercise Caution when Pairing the following Shoe Styles with Capris
•Wedges
A lot of women wear wedge shoes with capri pants, and though it occasionally works, I'm not a huge fan of the look for one simple reason: wedge heels are bulky. If I just can't pry the wedges out of your hands (or off of your feet), then at least look for styles that have very delicate uppers.
•Pumps
Pairing pumps with capri pants is another one of those "sometimes works" propositions, but for the most part, it creates a retro, "pin-up" vibe. If you've been trying to figure out how to cultivate that look, well, now you know -- but if you have no interest in looking like a Vargas girl, then you'll want to steer clear of wearing pumps with capri pants.
The Worst Shoes for Capri Pants
•Bulky Sneakers and Cross-Trainers
I see this look a lot at suburban shopping malls, and in a way I get it, it's all about comfort. But still, it's not a flattering look for anyone. If you love wearing capris and need to pair them with the most comfortable shoes you can find, try a pair of slim, canvas sneakers instead. If it's the cross-trainers you can't give up, try them with a pair of boot-cut yoga pants instead.
•Sandals with Heavy Straps
Whether they're flats or heels doesn't matter, sandals with really thick straps don't play well with capri pants; they're just too overwhelming for such a slim silhouette.
•Clogs
Try as a might, I just can't think of heavier-looking shoes than clogs -- which is fine if you're pairing them with jeans or pants. But whether they're rubber, wood or leather, they're way too bulky for capri pants.
MY THOUGHTS
i love capri pants. and i know for sure those bulky sneakers and clogs don't work.
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
A great gift; Beautiful shoes made of chocolate
Chocolate Shoes - A Great Gift for Shoe Lovers
By Desiree Stimpert, About.com Guide
Masterfully combining two of life's greatest treasures, and two of my biggest passions, Gayle Harte of Gayle's Chocolates is obviously some sort of genius for having created these stunning chocolate shoes.
Weighing 14 ounces, and measuring seven inches long and six inches tall, these gorgeous gourmet treats are individually handmade, and no two are exactly alike.
These chocolate shoes would make a great gift for anyone on your shopping list loves shoes, chocolate, or both.
The original chocolate pumps, shown here, are offered in pink, milk, white or dark chocolate, and each shoe costs $40 (US). But before making up your mind, you'll want to check out the rest of Gayle's chocolate shoe collection, which includes metallic gold and silver chocolate mules, violet chocolate pumps, and several other fabulous footwear delights.
For more information, visit GaylesChocolates.com.
MY THOUGHTS
am still trying to imagine this. i don't think i can eat the shoesthat i love so much. go check on the links to see the pics.
By Desiree Stimpert, About.com Guide
Masterfully combining two of life's greatest treasures, and two of my biggest passions, Gayle Harte of Gayle's Chocolates is obviously some sort of genius for having created these stunning chocolate shoes.
Weighing 14 ounces, and measuring seven inches long and six inches tall, these gorgeous gourmet treats are individually handmade, and no two are exactly alike.
These chocolate shoes would make a great gift for anyone on your shopping list loves shoes, chocolate, or both.
The original chocolate pumps, shown here, are offered in pink, milk, white or dark chocolate, and each shoe costs $40 (US). But before making up your mind, you'll want to check out the rest of Gayle's chocolate shoe collection, which includes metallic gold and silver chocolate mules, violet chocolate pumps, and several other fabulous footwear delights.
For more information, visit GaylesChocolates.com.
MY THOUGHTS
am still trying to imagine this. i don't think i can eat the shoesthat i love so much. go check on the links to see the pics.
Beautiful Shoes for Large Feet
How to Buy Fabulous Shoes for Large Feet
Gerri Miller ON Oct 4, 2005 at 1:27AM
Like Tuscan villas and Hugh Jackman, beautiful shoes were things I'd salivated over in magazines and admired from afar but could never have. Finding cute pumps to match an outfit? Forget it. With size 11AA feet, I had to make do with a severely limited selection of boring, if not downright ugly, shoes in black or brown -- when I could find anything at all. But I'm happy to report that those days of footwear deprivation are over. With a great variety of manufacturers, stores and Websites catering to extended sizes worn by increasing numbers of bigger, taller women, today's size 10+ shoe fanatic can be fashionable from head to toe.
Eleven and 12 are not oddball sizes anymore," says Bob Lewis, whose Prevata line of Italian-made leather shoes is sold in those sizes at Nordstrom's and independent retailers. "I think it's a huge market, and in my own retail stores we take advantage of that tremendously," concurs Donald J. Pliner, who offers sizes 11 and 12 in his four eponymous outlets.
Stuart Weitzman, whose exquisite shoes adorn the soles of Hollywood's red carpet regulars, has earned the love and loyalty of women with hard-to-fit feet by offering a wide range of sizes in his 15 U.S. stores. "We do 3 1/2 to 12, AAAA to W, says Weitzman, who'll add outposts in San Francisco, Atlantic City and San Antonio this fall. Weitzman does a booming extended-size business via his Website and twice-yearly trunk shows in May and November, when customers can pre-order any style in their size. "It's custom made, and we don't charge any extra for it," notes Weitzman. Actress Kate Winslet, who wears a size 11M, wore Weitzman's T-strap Nighty to the Academy Awards.
Élevé by Forgotten Soles, the new custom line from DesignerShoes.com, goes a step further. "We have a virtual trunk show where women have the chance to see styles before they're actually made. We work with customers who have shopped with us before, so we can show them shoes and they can tell us what style and color they like," says company president Barbara Thornton, whose Boston store and Website cater exclusively to hard-to-find sizes. "We start at 10 1/2 medium and 9 on the narrow side and 8 on the wide side and go up to 15. We don't even carry a shoe unless it goes to size 12," notes Thornton, who can fit both the tall teenager who wants flats and the confident career woman who likes heels. "It's all about choice."
Nordstrom, with its 95 department stores nationwide and thousands of shoe styles available on its Website, maintains a commitment to extended sizes that reflects its beginnings 100 years ago as a Seattle shoe store catering to large-footed Swedes. "We try to carry sizes four to fourteen, and widths AAA to WW," says spokesperson Pamela Perret. You can get on the mailing list to be notified of special oversize shoe events and benefit from the huge national inventory. If your store is out of your size, chances are it can be ordered and shipped to you.
For fall, Perret promises a continuation of the bohemian and embellished trends, now in boots, "and what we're calling Baroque -- very decorated, rich fabrics like velvet and brocades. Skirts are huge for fall and whatever style skirt you have, we'll have lots of options."
So much choice can be overwhelming, but it's a dilemma that's way overdue. So clear some closet space and start shopping!
Stuart Weitzman
Where to buy: Stuart Weitzman stores, Nordstrom, Stanley Korshak, Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, StuartWeitzman.com
Plus sizes: 10 1/2 to 12, AAAA to W
What's hot now: Scrunched-down boots, booties, metallic leathers in shades of brass, pewter and anthracite, cowboy-influenced styles, moccasins in both low and high heels. "The platform and wedge are very strong for fall," says Weitzman.
Donald J. Pliner
Where to buy: Pliner stores in Beverly Hills, Miami, Las Vegas and San Jose and at Nordstrom stores, or DonaldPliner.com
Plus sizes: 11 and 12 M, some N
What's hot now: Mid-heels and flats in cassis and olive green, hair calf, camel and white mocha print and "a newspaper print with a fuchsia underlay."
Prevata
Where to buy: Harry's Shoes, Nordstrom
Plus sizes: 11 and 12 M
What's hot now: Wedges and bootie-type shoes in stretch materials combined with leather in black, camel and gray and metallics like pewter, bronze and old gold.
Stores that stock plus-size shoes
Nordstrom
Where to buy: 95 stores nationwide, Nordstrom.com
Plus sizes: 10 1/2 to 14, AAA to WW
Brands: Stuart Weitzman, Anne Klein, VanEli, Linea Paolo, J. Renee, Charles David, Franco Sarto, Donald J. Pliner, Kate Spade, A. Marinelli, J. Renee, Ralph Lauren, Kenneth Cole, BCBG and exclusive house brands Classiques Entier and Brass Plum
Marmi
Where to buy: 30 stores nationwide (see Website for locations), MarmiShoes.com or Catalog available at 1-800-966-2764
Plus sizes: 10 1/2 to 13, AAAA to W
Brands: VanEli, Rangoni, Sesto Meucci, Eric Javits
Elleven Up
Where to buy: 12 West 57th Street, NYC, 212-757-2154 EllevenUp.com or 866-ELLEVEN (toll free)
Plus sizes: 10 1/2 to 13 N to W
Brands: Anne Klein, Donald J. Pliner, VanEli, Claudia Ciuti Join mailing list for sale and new style info.
Friedman's Shoes
Where to buy: 209 Mitchell Street, Atlanta, Georgia, LargeFeet.com, catalog available 800-540-6513
Plus sizes: 10 1/2 to 13, AA to WW
Brands: VanEli, J. Renee, Cianni, Paul Melian
DesignerShoes.com
Where to buy: DesignerShoes.com
Plus sizes: 10 1/2 to 15, AAAA to WW
Brands: Via Spiga, Stuart Weitzman, Anne Klein, Pancaldi, Claudia Ciuti, Donald J. Pliner, Steve Madden, custom Élevé line (also see ForgottenSoles.com for list of stores carrying them)
Statuesque
Where to buy: Catalog available, 800-367-7167
Plus sizes: 10 1/2 to 13, AA to WW
Brands: Franco Sarto, Jazz, VanEli, Pelle Moda, Moda Spana, Rangoni
Unique Feet
Where to buy: UniqueFeet.com
Plus sizes:10 1/2 to 12 AAAA; 10 1/2 to 13 AAA and AA, 10 1/2 to 14 M, W and selected WW
Brands: Cole Haan, Stuart Weitzman, VanEli, Prevata, Sesto Meucci, David Tate
Up and Under
Where to buy: UpandUnderShoes.com
Plus sizes: 10 1/2 to 12 M
Brands: Anne Klein, Stuart Weitzman, Via Spiga
Beautiful Shoes
Where to buy: Beautiful-Shoes.com
Custom shoes, made to order from your photo or suggested styles similar to Christian Louboutin, Giuseppe Zanotti, Prada and Manolo Blahnik. Pricey, but worth it for a great copy or replacing a beloved old or discontinued pair.
Shoedini
Where to buy: Shoedini.com
Plus sizes:10 1/2 to 12, AA to W
Brands: Via Spiga, Donald J. Pliner, Anne Klein, Stuart Weitzman
Shoes.com
Where to buy: Shoes.com
Plus sizes: 10 1/2 to 12, AAAA to WWW
Brands: Cole Haan, Donald J. Pliner, ViaSpiga
MY THOUGHTS
don't you just envy them? i don't remember being asked for the width of my shoes.
Gerri Miller ON Oct 4, 2005 at 1:27AM
Like Tuscan villas and Hugh Jackman, beautiful shoes were things I'd salivated over in magazines and admired from afar but could never have. Finding cute pumps to match an outfit? Forget it. With size 11AA feet, I had to make do with a severely limited selection of boring, if not downright ugly, shoes in black or brown -- when I could find anything at all. But I'm happy to report that those days of footwear deprivation are over. With a great variety of manufacturers, stores and Websites catering to extended sizes worn by increasing numbers of bigger, taller women, today's size 10+ shoe fanatic can be fashionable from head to toe.
Eleven and 12 are not oddball sizes anymore," says Bob Lewis, whose Prevata line of Italian-made leather shoes is sold in those sizes at Nordstrom's and independent retailers. "I think it's a huge market, and in my own retail stores we take advantage of that tremendously," concurs Donald J. Pliner, who offers sizes 11 and 12 in his four eponymous outlets.
Stuart Weitzman, whose exquisite shoes adorn the soles of Hollywood's red carpet regulars, has earned the love and loyalty of women with hard-to-fit feet by offering a wide range of sizes in his 15 U.S. stores. "We do 3 1/2 to 12, AAAA to W, says Weitzman, who'll add outposts in San Francisco, Atlantic City and San Antonio this fall. Weitzman does a booming extended-size business via his Website and twice-yearly trunk shows in May and November, when customers can pre-order any style in their size. "It's custom made, and we don't charge any extra for it," notes Weitzman. Actress Kate Winslet, who wears a size 11M, wore Weitzman's T-strap Nighty to the Academy Awards.
Élevé by Forgotten Soles, the new custom line from DesignerShoes.com, goes a step further. "We have a virtual trunk show where women have the chance to see styles before they're actually made. We work with customers who have shopped with us before, so we can show them shoes and they can tell us what style and color they like," says company president Barbara Thornton, whose Boston store and Website cater exclusively to hard-to-find sizes. "We start at 10 1/2 medium and 9 on the narrow side and 8 on the wide side and go up to 15. We don't even carry a shoe unless it goes to size 12," notes Thornton, who can fit both the tall teenager who wants flats and the confident career woman who likes heels. "It's all about choice."
Nordstrom, with its 95 department stores nationwide and thousands of shoe styles available on its Website, maintains a commitment to extended sizes that reflects its beginnings 100 years ago as a Seattle shoe store catering to large-footed Swedes. "We try to carry sizes four to fourteen, and widths AAA to WW," says spokesperson Pamela Perret. You can get on the mailing list to be notified of special oversize shoe events and benefit from the huge national inventory. If your store is out of your size, chances are it can be ordered and shipped to you.
For fall, Perret promises a continuation of the bohemian and embellished trends, now in boots, "and what we're calling Baroque -- very decorated, rich fabrics like velvet and brocades. Skirts are huge for fall and whatever style skirt you have, we'll have lots of options."
So much choice can be overwhelming, but it's a dilemma that's way overdue. So clear some closet space and start shopping!
Stuart Weitzman
Where to buy: Stuart Weitzman stores, Nordstrom, Stanley Korshak, Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue, StuartWeitzman.com
Plus sizes: 10 1/2 to 12, AAAA to W
What's hot now: Scrunched-down boots, booties, metallic leathers in shades of brass, pewter and anthracite, cowboy-influenced styles, moccasins in both low and high heels. "The platform and wedge are very strong for fall," says Weitzman.
Donald J. Pliner
Where to buy: Pliner stores in Beverly Hills, Miami, Las Vegas and San Jose and at Nordstrom stores, or DonaldPliner.com
Plus sizes: 11 and 12 M, some N
What's hot now: Mid-heels and flats in cassis and olive green, hair calf, camel and white mocha print and "a newspaper print with a fuchsia underlay."
Prevata
Where to buy: Harry's Shoes, Nordstrom
Plus sizes: 11 and 12 M
What's hot now: Wedges and bootie-type shoes in stretch materials combined with leather in black, camel and gray and metallics like pewter, bronze and old gold.
Stores that stock plus-size shoes
Nordstrom
Where to buy: 95 stores nationwide, Nordstrom.com
Plus sizes: 10 1/2 to 14, AAA to WW
Brands: Stuart Weitzman, Anne Klein, VanEli, Linea Paolo, J. Renee, Charles David, Franco Sarto, Donald J. Pliner, Kate Spade, A. Marinelli, J. Renee, Ralph Lauren, Kenneth Cole, BCBG and exclusive house brands Classiques Entier and Brass Plum
Marmi
Where to buy: 30 stores nationwide (see Website for locations), MarmiShoes.com or Catalog available at 1-800-966-2764
Plus sizes: 10 1/2 to 13, AAAA to W
Brands: VanEli, Rangoni, Sesto Meucci, Eric Javits
Elleven Up
Where to buy: 12 West 57th Street, NYC, 212-757-2154 EllevenUp.com or 866-ELLEVEN (toll free)
Plus sizes: 10 1/2 to 13 N to W
Brands: Anne Klein, Donald J. Pliner, VanEli, Claudia Ciuti Join mailing list for sale and new style info.
Friedman's Shoes
Where to buy: 209 Mitchell Street, Atlanta, Georgia, LargeFeet.com, catalog available 800-540-6513
Plus sizes: 10 1/2 to 13, AA to WW
Brands: VanEli, J. Renee, Cianni, Paul Melian
DesignerShoes.com
Where to buy: DesignerShoes.com
Plus sizes: 10 1/2 to 15, AAAA to WW
Brands: Via Spiga, Stuart Weitzman, Anne Klein, Pancaldi, Claudia Ciuti, Donald J. Pliner, Steve Madden, custom Élevé line (also see ForgottenSoles.com for list of stores carrying them)
Statuesque
Where to buy: Catalog available, 800-367-7167
Plus sizes: 10 1/2 to 13, AA to WW
Brands: Franco Sarto, Jazz, VanEli, Pelle Moda, Moda Spana, Rangoni
Unique Feet
Where to buy: UniqueFeet.com
Plus sizes:10 1/2 to 12 AAAA; 10 1/2 to 13 AAA and AA, 10 1/2 to 14 M, W and selected WW
Brands: Cole Haan, Stuart Weitzman, VanEli, Prevata, Sesto Meucci, David Tate
Up and Under
Where to buy: UpandUnderShoes.com
Plus sizes: 10 1/2 to 12 M
Brands: Anne Klein, Stuart Weitzman, Via Spiga
Beautiful Shoes
Where to buy: Beautiful-Shoes.com
Custom shoes, made to order from your photo or suggested styles similar to Christian Louboutin, Giuseppe Zanotti, Prada and Manolo Blahnik. Pricey, but worth it for a great copy or replacing a beloved old or discontinued pair.
Shoedini
Where to buy: Shoedini.com
Plus sizes:10 1/2 to 12, AA to W
Brands: Via Spiga, Donald J. Pliner, Anne Klein, Stuart Weitzman
Shoes.com
Where to buy: Shoes.com
Plus sizes: 10 1/2 to 12, AAAA to WWW
Brands: Cole Haan, Donald J. Pliner, ViaSpiga
MY THOUGHTS
don't you just envy them? i don't remember being asked for the width of my shoes.
Repair and Maintenance of Beautiful Designer Shoes
Repair and Maintenence of Your Designer Shoes
Think twice before tossing those Jimmy Choos
Let's face it, you love your shoes. But maybe you haven't treated them right. You've worn them down and haven't given them the attention they deserve. Inevitably, a cuter, newer pair has come along, and you feel like tossing the old ones away. Well, the abuse has to stop! The shoes you purchase are an investment, and they need to be treated that way. Expensive footwear, if properly cared for, will last a lot longer than you realize. So fall in love all over again with the shoes you already have and get them repaired. And when your next love comes along, treat 'em right.
Stain and waterproof your shoes.
Applying a protective spray is the best way to shield your shoes from spills, rain, snow and mud. This can be done at a shoe repair shop, but it can also be done at home for a minimal cost. Leather and suede sprays and lotions should be applied before the first time shoes are worn and then on a regular basis afterward -- approximately every six to eight weeks. Meltonian Water and Suede Protector is one brand that comes highly recommended by shoe repair experts. The advantages of using a spray over a cream are that the spray takes less time to apply, and excessive use of a cream will result in a dull finish on the shoe surface. Another good option for weatherproofing your shoes is Kiwi Premier Shine. This is a water-resistant wax formula with a controlled-flow applicator. A telltale sign that you need to reapply your repellant is when water stops beading up on your shoe's surface. For these and other maintenance products, check out ShoeShineExpress.com.
Prevent wear and tear.
There's nothing more exciting than wearing a fabulous pair of new shoes for the first time. But there's one good reason to control yourself, and we assure you it's worth the wait: having rubber tips and heels applied. Yes, you may feel some separation anxiety leaving your brand-new shoes at a repair shop, but it's in your best interest to add the rubber soles before any wear and tear takes place. This will extend by months the time you have with your shoes before you need to bring them in again.
Repair shoes at a shop.
If you currently have damaged or worn-in shoes that you've written off as dead, think twice, because it might not be time to pull the plug. You can bring those babies back to life by having tips and rubber soles applied even after the shoes have been worn. Pamper your footwear the way you would pamper yourself. Bring them in for a quick polish or cleaning on a regular basis, and keep shoe trees in them when you're not wearing them, to help maintain their shape. Cedar shoe trees also absorb moisture, acid and salt, thereby reducing cracking and the deterioration of leather. Suede shoes should be brushed (on a clean and dry surface) up the nap using a rubber or stiff-bristled suede brush.
Broke your heel off while fighting for a taxi in the rain? No problem. Any reputable shoe repair shop can fix this in addition to many other woes. One of our biggest problems is that we often tear the leather on our heels when climbing stairs. The repair shop can fix that in no time, and your shoes will often look like new when you get them back. Repair experts can also buff out scratches and shine dull leather. In New York City, we love Shoe Service Plus (212-262-4823), which has never met a shoe it couldn't fix. Every fashionista in town goes there to get her designer shoes fixed. Ask at high-end shoe stores for good repair people in your city, or you can ship your shoes to Shoe Service Plus and they'll send them back once they're fixed. Think of it like sending your shoes on a spa vacation!
At-home repair tips.
If you're looking to save some money or you simply don't have the time to make a trip to the repair shop, here are some great home-maintenance tips:
Rinse off white salt marks with a 50/50 mixture of white distilled vinegar and water (make sure you apply this to dry shoes and boots only).
White shoe polish won't smear if you spray the shoe with hairspray after it's dry.
To keep canvas shoes clean longer, apply spray starch on the surface of a dry, clean shoe.
Use baby wipes to clean and shine patent leather shoes
Clean white leather shoes with non-gel toothpaste, rubbing alcohol or nail polish remover.
MY THOUGHTS
i know vinegar may help. but i didn't know nail polish remover can be used on leather. i've tried alcohol and i intend to try the toothpaste.
Think twice before tossing those Jimmy Choos
Let's face it, you love your shoes. But maybe you haven't treated them right. You've worn them down and haven't given them the attention they deserve. Inevitably, a cuter, newer pair has come along, and you feel like tossing the old ones away. Well, the abuse has to stop! The shoes you purchase are an investment, and they need to be treated that way. Expensive footwear, if properly cared for, will last a lot longer than you realize. So fall in love all over again with the shoes you already have and get them repaired. And when your next love comes along, treat 'em right.
Stain and waterproof your shoes.
Applying a protective spray is the best way to shield your shoes from spills, rain, snow and mud. This can be done at a shoe repair shop, but it can also be done at home for a minimal cost. Leather and suede sprays and lotions should be applied before the first time shoes are worn and then on a regular basis afterward -- approximately every six to eight weeks. Meltonian Water and Suede Protector is one brand that comes highly recommended by shoe repair experts. The advantages of using a spray over a cream are that the spray takes less time to apply, and excessive use of a cream will result in a dull finish on the shoe surface. Another good option for weatherproofing your shoes is Kiwi Premier Shine. This is a water-resistant wax formula with a controlled-flow applicator. A telltale sign that you need to reapply your repellant is when water stops beading up on your shoe's surface. For these and other maintenance products, check out ShoeShineExpress.com.
Prevent wear and tear.
There's nothing more exciting than wearing a fabulous pair of new shoes for the first time. But there's one good reason to control yourself, and we assure you it's worth the wait: having rubber tips and heels applied. Yes, you may feel some separation anxiety leaving your brand-new shoes at a repair shop, but it's in your best interest to add the rubber soles before any wear and tear takes place. This will extend by months the time you have with your shoes before you need to bring them in again.
Repair shoes at a shop.
If you currently have damaged or worn-in shoes that you've written off as dead, think twice, because it might not be time to pull the plug. You can bring those babies back to life by having tips and rubber soles applied even after the shoes have been worn. Pamper your footwear the way you would pamper yourself. Bring them in for a quick polish or cleaning on a regular basis, and keep shoe trees in them when you're not wearing them, to help maintain their shape. Cedar shoe trees also absorb moisture, acid and salt, thereby reducing cracking and the deterioration of leather. Suede shoes should be brushed (on a clean and dry surface) up the nap using a rubber or stiff-bristled suede brush.
Broke your heel off while fighting for a taxi in the rain? No problem. Any reputable shoe repair shop can fix this in addition to many other woes. One of our biggest problems is that we often tear the leather on our heels when climbing stairs. The repair shop can fix that in no time, and your shoes will often look like new when you get them back. Repair experts can also buff out scratches and shine dull leather. In New York City, we love Shoe Service Plus (212-262-4823), which has never met a shoe it couldn't fix. Every fashionista in town goes there to get her designer shoes fixed. Ask at high-end shoe stores for good repair people in your city, or you can ship your shoes to Shoe Service Plus and they'll send them back once they're fixed. Think of it like sending your shoes on a spa vacation!
At-home repair tips.
If you're looking to save some money or you simply don't have the time to make a trip to the repair shop, here are some great home-maintenance tips:
Rinse off white salt marks with a 50/50 mixture of white distilled vinegar and water (make sure you apply this to dry shoes and boots only).
White shoe polish won't smear if you spray the shoe with hairspray after it's dry.
To keep canvas shoes clean longer, apply spray starch on the surface of a dry, clean shoe.
Use baby wipes to clean and shine patent leather shoes
Clean white leather shoes with non-gel toothpaste, rubbing alcohol or nail polish remover.
MY THOUGHTS
i know vinegar may help. but i didn't know nail polish remover can be used on leather. i've tried alcohol and i intend to try the toothpaste.
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