Shoes for Christmas
200 children from Boys & Girls Clubs get new pair from Payless
JOY JUEDES, Staff Writer
Posted: 12/21/2010 10:08:09 PM PST
Volunteer Tonia Vento helps Juan Mendez try on shoes at Payless ShoeSource in Redlands on Tuesday. (JOY JUEDES/Redlands Daily Facts)
REDLANDS - About 200 children and teenagers from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Redlands bought new shoes at Payless ShoeSource this week.
Payless donated 200 $15 vouchers to the organization, and parents and a bus took the children to the store Tuesday morning before it opened. Volunteers helped each child and teenager pick out a pair while parents waited, some standing in the rain outside.
"We try to help them stay in the price range," said volunteer Diana McLaughlin. "The little kids really need fitting."
McLaughlin and her husband Dave enlisted members of her Bunco group to volunteer. They and others helped younger children try on shoes and find sizes. Volunteer Barbara Krause checked each box for one left shoe and one right.
"In large families, lower income, the little kids get hand-me-downs," said Boys & Girls Clubs CEO P.T. McEwen. "This is a chance for them to start out the new year on the right foot."
The organization received the vouchers through Payless Gives, the company's annual nationwide giving program. The Boys & Girls Clubs of Redlands distributed the coupons to children of families on its client list, according to McEwen.
"I think it's great," said Donee Mills, whose daughters Destiny Berner, 6, and Justina Mills, 7, each got a pair of shoes.
"Especially this time of year with people not being able to work," said the girls' grandmother, DeLora Mills.Payless district manager
Jim Jacobs said the store stocked a lot of popular styles.
"They did a good job this year stocking boots for little girls," he said. "And character shoes, like Disney and stuff, are really popular with children."
He said store staff works with Boys & Girls Clubs staff and volunteers.
"They just really make this work," he said. "And the patience (the families) have waiting in the rain, we really appreciate it."
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Redlands also received a $5,000 grant from Collective Brands, the parent company of Payless, for the Triple Play program. The program challenges Boys & Girls Club members to become healthy and active by learning new ways to eat well, manage stress, exercise and form positive relationships with peers, according to McEwen.
MY THOUGHTS
CSR. corporate social responsibility. i hope a lot of companies pick up on this fad. for years, i've worked with institutions helping the less priveleged. this is nothing new to us. but profit-oriented companies trying to share what they earn to the needy is a much-needed and welcome development. i like this idea of giving shoes. it's a big deal for kids. especially on christmas.
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Monday, December 27, 2010
dream come true for a young lady who lived for her shoes
Larger-than-life dream come true for a young lady who lived for her shoes
Mark Russell
December 26, 2010
PERHAPS it was written in the stars - after all, Mira Smoljko always wanted to own a shoe shop. But it was what was written in a letter to the editor that changed the course of the 43-year-old's life.
As Ms Smoljko was reading the letter, fate stepped in with her towering stilettos and gave the mother of three the lift she needed to reach for her dreams. The result is a women's shoe shop that caters for all sizes, but specialises in shoes for women with larger feet.
Ms Smoljko first had the idea to open a specialty shoe store when she was 15 but did not have the confidence to pursue her dream until she read a letter in The Sunday Age on July 12 last year from Elizabeth, a Bendigo woman bemoaning the lack of stylish and affordable shoes for her size-12 feet (equivalent to a men's size 10).
Elizabeth told how she had ''endured a lifetime of ill-fitting, blister-causing, heel-splitting and bone-fracturing (yes, really!) torture in my failed search for the elusive size-12 dress shoe''. It was time, Elizabeth said, for shoe companies and specialty stores to stop discriminating against women with big feet.
For Ms Smoljko, who is 180 centimetres tall - just two centimetres shy of six feet - and wears a size-11 shoe, it was her ''light-bulb'' moment.
She said Elizabeth's letter made her realise there were a lot of other women just like her, struggling to find fashionable shoes, so she put together a business plan and by May this year had set up Glamazon Shoes in Union Road, Ascot Vale.
Now Ms Smoljko wants to find Elizabeth so she can thank her and give her a pair of ''gorgeous'' size-12 shoes.
''I still have Elizabeth's letter and it's pinned up in the back of the shop as a reminder of how it all began, and that signs are everywhere if you keep your eyes open,'' she said. ''I'm indebted to her.
''It was a turning point in my life.
''If it wasn't for her letter, I would never have had the courage to follow my dream. ''I was thinking if I don't do something now, I'm going to hate myself forever.'' The shop, which carries sizes six to 13, will stock sizes 14 and 15 from early next year.
It already has attracted a devoted and grateful clientele. Ms Smoljko said some customers were so appreciative they hugged her. Teenage girls with big feet had become regulars.
''Adolescence is so difficult … because you just want to be like everyone else. But if you're standing at five foot nine (175 centimetres), five foot 10, and you've got a size 11, 12 or 13 foot, it's doubly hideous because you really stand out.
''All you want to do is wear what your friends are wearing and fit in with the crowd and you just don't have that option.
''It's really satisfying to be able to help them.''
Some of her best customers, however, are cross-dressing men and transvestites who tend to require a larger size in women's shoes. ''They love it,'' she said.
And the next step? Ms Smoljko hopes to open a chain of stores across Melbourne.
MY THOUGHTS
sometimes, all it takes is a little nudge to get us going. or not. i wish i can find the courage to start something i've been thinking about for years. just one step. then another...
Mark Russell
December 26, 2010
PERHAPS it was written in the stars - after all, Mira Smoljko always wanted to own a shoe shop. But it was what was written in a letter to the editor that changed the course of the 43-year-old's life.
As Ms Smoljko was reading the letter, fate stepped in with her towering stilettos and gave the mother of three the lift she needed to reach for her dreams. The result is a women's shoe shop that caters for all sizes, but specialises in shoes for women with larger feet.
Ms Smoljko first had the idea to open a specialty shoe store when she was 15 but did not have the confidence to pursue her dream until she read a letter in The Sunday Age on July 12 last year from Elizabeth, a Bendigo woman bemoaning the lack of stylish and affordable shoes for her size-12 feet (equivalent to a men's size 10).
Elizabeth told how she had ''endured a lifetime of ill-fitting, blister-causing, heel-splitting and bone-fracturing (yes, really!) torture in my failed search for the elusive size-12 dress shoe''. It was time, Elizabeth said, for shoe companies and specialty stores to stop discriminating against women with big feet.
For Ms Smoljko, who is 180 centimetres tall - just two centimetres shy of six feet - and wears a size-11 shoe, it was her ''light-bulb'' moment.
She said Elizabeth's letter made her realise there were a lot of other women just like her, struggling to find fashionable shoes, so she put together a business plan and by May this year had set up Glamazon Shoes in Union Road, Ascot Vale.
Now Ms Smoljko wants to find Elizabeth so she can thank her and give her a pair of ''gorgeous'' size-12 shoes.
''I still have Elizabeth's letter and it's pinned up in the back of the shop as a reminder of how it all began, and that signs are everywhere if you keep your eyes open,'' she said. ''I'm indebted to her.
''It was a turning point in my life.
''If it wasn't for her letter, I would never have had the courage to follow my dream. ''I was thinking if I don't do something now, I'm going to hate myself forever.'' The shop, which carries sizes six to 13, will stock sizes 14 and 15 from early next year.
It already has attracted a devoted and grateful clientele. Ms Smoljko said some customers were so appreciative they hugged her. Teenage girls with big feet had become regulars.
''Adolescence is so difficult … because you just want to be like everyone else. But if you're standing at five foot nine (175 centimetres), five foot 10, and you've got a size 11, 12 or 13 foot, it's doubly hideous because you really stand out.
''All you want to do is wear what your friends are wearing and fit in with the crowd and you just don't have that option.
''It's really satisfying to be able to help them.''
Some of her best customers, however, are cross-dressing men and transvestites who tend to require a larger size in women's shoes. ''They love it,'' she said.
And the next step? Ms Smoljko hopes to open a chain of stores across Melbourne.
MY THOUGHTS
sometimes, all it takes is a little nudge to get us going. or not. i wish i can find the courage to start something i've been thinking about for years. just one step. then another...
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Beautiful Shoes for Kids at Christmas
Shoes for Christmas
200 children from Boys & Girls Clubs get new pair from Payless
JOY JUEDES, Staff Writer
Posted: 12/21/2010 10:08:09 PM PST
Volunteer Tonia Vento helps Juan Mendez try on shoes at Payless ShoeSource in Redlands on Tuesday. (JOY JUEDES/Redlands Daily Facts)
REDLANDS - About 200 children and teenagers from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Redlands bought new shoes at Payless ShoeSource this week.
Payless donated 200 $15 vouchers to the organization, and parents and a bus took the children to the store Tuesday morning before it opened. Volunteers helped each child and teenager pick out a pair while parents waited, some standing in the rain outside.
"We try to help them stay in the price range," said volunteer Diana McLaughlin. "The little kids really need fitting."
McLaughlin and her husband Dave enlisted members of her Bunco group to volunteer. They and others helped younger children try on shoes and find sizes. Volunteer Barbara Krause checked each box for one left shoe and one right.
"In large families, lower income, the little kids get hand-me-downs," said Boys & Girls Clubs CEO P.T. McEwen. "This is a chance for them to start out the new year on the right foot."
The organization received the vouchers through Payless Gives, the company's annual nationwide giving program. The Boys & Girls Clubs of Redlands distributed the coupons to children of families on its client list, according to McEwen.
"I think it's great," said Donee Mills, whose daughters Destiny Berner, 6, and Justina Mills, 7, each got a pair of shoes.
"Especially this time of year with people not being able to work," said the girls' grandmother, DeLora Mills.Payless district manager
Jim Jacobs said the store stocked a lot of popular styles.
"They did a good job this year stocking boots for little girls," he said. "And character shoes, like Disney and stuff, are really popular with children."
He said store staff works with Boys & Girls Clubs staff and volunteers.
"They just really make this work," he said. "And the patience (the families) have waiting in the rain, we really appreciate it."
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Redlands also received a $5,000 grant from Collective Brands, the parent company of Payless, for the Triple Play program. The program challenges Boys & Girls Club members to become healthy and active by learning new ways to eat well, manage stress, exercise and form positive relationships with peers, according to McEwen.
MY THOUGHTS
CSR. corporate social responsibility. i hope a lot of companies pick up on this fad. for years, i've worked with institutions helping the less priveleged. this is nothing new to us. but profit-oriented companies trying to share what they earn to the needy is a much-needed and welcome development. i like this idea of giving shoes. it's a big deal for kids. especially on christmas.
200 children from Boys & Girls Clubs get new pair from Payless
JOY JUEDES, Staff Writer
Posted: 12/21/2010 10:08:09 PM PST
Volunteer Tonia Vento helps Juan Mendez try on shoes at Payless ShoeSource in Redlands on Tuesday. (JOY JUEDES/Redlands Daily Facts)
REDLANDS - About 200 children and teenagers from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Redlands bought new shoes at Payless ShoeSource this week.
Payless donated 200 $15 vouchers to the organization, and parents and a bus took the children to the store Tuesday morning before it opened. Volunteers helped each child and teenager pick out a pair while parents waited, some standing in the rain outside.
"We try to help them stay in the price range," said volunteer Diana McLaughlin. "The little kids really need fitting."
McLaughlin and her husband Dave enlisted members of her Bunco group to volunteer. They and others helped younger children try on shoes and find sizes. Volunteer Barbara Krause checked each box for one left shoe and one right.
"In large families, lower income, the little kids get hand-me-downs," said Boys & Girls Clubs CEO P.T. McEwen. "This is a chance for them to start out the new year on the right foot."
The organization received the vouchers through Payless Gives, the company's annual nationwide giving program. The Boys & Girls Clubs of Redlands distributed the coupons to children of families on its client list, according to McEwen.
"I think it's great," said Donee Mills, whose daughters Destiny Berner, 6, and Justina Mills, 7, each got a pair of shoes.
"Especially this time of year with people not being able to work," said the girls' grandmother, DeLora Mills.Payless district manager
Jim Jacobs said the store stocked a lot of popular styles.
"They did a good job this year stocking boots for little girls," he said. "And character shoes, like Disney and stuff, are really popular with children."
He said store staff works with Boys & Girls Clubs staff and volunteers.
"They just really make this work," he said. "And the patience (the families) have waiting in the rain, we really appreciate it."
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Redlands also received a $5,000 grant from Collective Brands, the parent company of Payless, for the Triple Play program. The program challenges Boys & Girls Club members to become healthy and active by learning new ways to eat well, manage stress, exercise and form positive relationships with peers, according to McEwen.
MY THOUGHTS
CSR. corporate social responsibility. i hope a lot of companies pick up on this fad. for years, i've worked with institutions helping the less priveleged. this is nothing new to us. but profit-oriented companies trying to share what they earn to the needy is a much-needed and welcome development. i like this idea of giving shoes. it's a big deal for kids. especially on christmas.
Monday, December 20, 2010
Essential Beautiful Shoes for Women
Essential Women's Shoes
By Desiree Stimpert, About.com Guide
This list contains the top ten essential women's shoes. While footwear comes in all styles, shapes, and colors, it never fails, something comes up, and the perfect shoes are nowhere to be found. This list will help solve that problem. Here are the essentials, complete with shopping links.
1. The "Little Black Dress" of Shoes - A Low Heeled Black Pump
A low-heeled, comfortable black pump is essential to every woman's shoe collection for all those times when a strappy sandal or overly-glamorous shoe is inappropriate or too dressy, like an early dinner; an impromptu business meeting; or even a funeral.
These basic pumps from Fitzwell are versatile enough to pair with anything, and feature heels that are only 2 inches high. As an added bonus, these classically-styled shoes are also available in wide widths.
2. The "New Black" - Neutral Pumps
Even with as versatile as black pumps are, they simply will not go with everything. Add a neutral colored (not white) pump to your collection, and you'll have the the "basic pump" category of women's shoes covered. Shoes like these pretty pumps from Stuart Weitzman offer a classic look that will work season after season, and year after year.
Looks great with black dresses too.
3. The "Comfort Food" of Shoes - Your Everyday Shoe
Only you can be the judge of what will work best as your "every day" shoe, but whether it's a sneaker, a loafer or a flip-flop; comfort, fit and style should be key in choosing the right shoes for your everyday wear. I wear a lot of jeans, so I'm a sucker for cute and casual flats, like the 'Sloop' from French Sole. I often opt for bright and unique colors, because they add a bit of personality to even the most basic of outfits.
4. The "Walk in the Park" of Footwear - A Sneaker
Again, the choice is yours, but whether it's a little white pointy sneaker, or an edgy, retro high top, every wardrobe needs a pair of comfortable sneakers. This simple sneaker from Puma is one of my favorite styles -- it's perfect for walks in the park, or trips to the grocery store.
5. The "Instant Make-Over" - Heeled Casual Shoes and Booties
Nothing can dress up a casual outfit and make you feel better about yourself, like adding a bit of height. It doesn't matter how high or low the heel is, it's just about getting out of flats for a bit. Look for casual booties or shoes with a bit of a heel for times when you want to be chic, even in jeans.
6. The Alternative to Women's Shoes - A Tall Boot
Whether it's a high-heeled fashion boot or a warm and comfy casual style, colder weather screams for boots. Plus, depending on the boots you choose, everything from skirts to jeans can look fantastic with them. Every woman's wardrobe should have at least one pair in brown or black. I like boots with a low heel that can go casual or dressy.
7. The "Warm Cup of Cocoa" - Slippers
I'm not talking about "glamourous" slippers here. I'm talking about, after a shower, sitting around in your bathrobe, talking on the phone kind of slippers. These "New Spa" slippers from Acorn are exactly the kind of slippers I'm talking about. After all, whatever shoes you wear during the day, you're feet will appreciate being pampered at night.
MY THOUGHTS
love this list. although recently i discovered i don't have pumps anymore. which shows to ptove that the shoes we buy and keep depends on our lifestyle. how can i have heels in my closet when i don't need them. i hardly ever go to formal affairs. even semi-formal events are rare. so,i have a whole array of comfort shoes. suitsme just fine.
By Desiree Stimpert, About.com Guide
This list contains the top ten essential women's shoes. While footwear comes in all styles, shapes, and colors, it never fails, something comes up, and the perfect shoes are nowhere to be found. This list will help solve that problem. Here are the essentials, complete with shopping links.
1. The "Little Black Dress" of Shoes - A Low Heeled Black Pump
A low-heeled, comfortable black pump is essential to every woman's shoe collection for all those times when a strappy sandal or overly-glamorous shoe is inappropriate or too dressy, like an early dinner; an impromptu business meeting; or even a funeral.
These basic pumps from Fitzwell are versatile enough to pair with anything, and feature heels that are only 2 inches high. As an added bonus, these classically-styled shoes are also available in wide widths.
2. The "New Black" - Neutral Pumps
Even with as versatile as black pumps are, they simply will not go with everything. Add a neutral colored (not white) pump to your collection, and you'll have the the "basic pump" category of women's shoes covered. Shoes like these pretty pumps from Stuart Weitzman offer a classic look that will work season after season, and year after year.
Looks great with black dresses too.
3. The "Comfort Food" of Shoes - Your Everyday Shoe
Only you can be the judge of what will work best as your "every day" shoe, but whether it's a sneaker, a loafer or a flip-flop; comfort, fit and style should be key in choosing the right shoes for your everyday wear. I wear a lot of jeans, so I'm a sucker for cute and casual flats, like the 'Sloop' from French Sole. I often opt for bright and unique colors, because they add a bit of personality to even the most basic of outfits.
4. The "Walk in the Park" of Footwear - A Sneaker
Again, the choice is yours, but whether it's a little white pointy sneaker, or an edgy, retro high top, every wardrobe needs a pair of comfortable sneakers. This simple sneaker from Puma is one of my favorite styles -- it's perfect for walks in the park, or trips to the grocery store.
5. The "Instant Make-Over" - Heeled Casual Shoes and Booties
Nothing can dress up a casual outfit and make you feel better about yourself, like adding a bit of height. It doesn't matter how high or low the heel is, it's just about getting out of flats for a bit. Look for casual booties or shoes with a bit of a heel for times when you want to be chic, even in jeans.
6. The Alternative to Women's Shoes - A Tall Boot
Whether it's a high-heeled fashion boot or a warm and comfy casual style, colder weather screams for boots. Plus, depending on the boots you choose, everything from skirts to jeans can look fantastic with them. Every woman's wardrobe should have at least one pair in brown or black. I like boots with a low heel that can go casual or dressy.
7. The "Warm Cup of Cocoa" - Slippers
I'm not talking about "glamourous" slippers here. I'm talking about, after a shower, sitting around in your bathrobe, talking on the phone kind of slippers. These "New Spa" slippers from Acorn are exactly the kind of slippers I'm talking about. After all, whatever shoes you wear during the day, you're feet will appreciate being pampered at night.
MY THOUGHTS
love this list. although recently i discovered i don't have pumps anymore. which shows to ptove that the shoes we buy and keep depends on our lifestyle. how can i have heels in my closet when i don't need them. i hardly ever go to formal affairs. even semi-formal events are rare. so,i have a whole array of comfort shoes. suitsme just fine.
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
What Type of Walker Are You?
What Type of Walker Are You?
Liz Neporent ON Oct 31, 2008 at 4:24PM
The key to finding the right walking shoe is to first find out what foot type you have. Then, you'll be on your way to smooth walking.
You may have tennis shoes, running shoes and even water shoes. What about walking shoes? Contrary to the country song, those boots aren’t made for walking—and nor are those old, ratty sneakers. Walking for fitness is a bona-fide exercise that calls for a supportive and flexible shoe—one designed to keep us moving toward our weight-loss and fitness goals.
Your walking shoes should have good shock absorption in the heels and in the balls of the feet. They should be a bit stiffer and more supportive than running shoes, although they need to have a very flexible forefoot to allow for the natural bend of the foot. The midsoles will be thinner than those of running shoes in order to accommodate the slower foot roll when you walk. Look for a shoe that features beveled, or slightly angled, heels to allow for a smooth heel-to-toe roll.
Beyond these basic traits, look for a shoe that matches your foot type:
Pronators have feet that roll excessively inward when they walk. Look for a board-lasted shoe (the inside of the shoe is glued rather than stitched in place) that has a motion-control device in the midsole. A straight-shaped shoe, which provides support for the inside of the foot and thus prevents you from overusing the inside edge of your foot, is also preferable. (When you look at the bottom of the shoe it will have very little curve.) Another plus is a reinforced heel for control and stability. Sturdy uppers and stability straps can also help prevent inward roll. Shoes with too much padding can exaggerate pronation, so avoid them.
Supinators roll their feet to the outside when they walk. Look for greater stability and a shoe whose outsole, insole and midsole are designed for extra shock absorbency. Slip-lasted shoes, with their inside inserts stitched into the bottom of the shoe, are best, as supinators have such rigid feet. Look for a curved shape; when you look at the bottom of the shoe, the top will curve inward. Buy shoes with reinforced material around the ankles and firm heels for maximum ankle and heel support. Extra cushioning under the ball of the foot helps increase comfort.
Owners of neutral feet—feet that don't roll too much inward or outward—can wear just about any shoe and be sure of proper support and comfort. But even if your feet are neutral and you have no problems with injury, don't skimp on the basic walking-shoe features.
Not sure about your foot type? Grab an old pair of walking or everyday wear shoes and place them on a level table. Walk around behind them and crouch down so that the top edges of the soles are at eye level. If the upper part of the shoe caves excessively inward relative to the soles, you're a pronator. If the uppers lean excessively outward in relation to the sole, you're a supinator. If the uppers break only slightly either way, you have neutral feet.
MY THOUGHTS
i have neutral feet. i tested 3 different types of shoes just to be sure. but i don't think i have the perfect pair of walking shoes. maybe i should get one. especially since i spend my lunch hour walking.
Liz Neporent ON Oct 31, 2008 at 4:24PM
The key to finding the right walking shoe is to first find out what foot type you have. Then, you'll be on your way to smooth walking.
You may have tennis shoes, running shoes and even water shoes. What about walking shoes? Contrary to the country song, those boots aren’t made for walking—and nor are those old, ratty sneakers. Walking for fitness is a bona-fide exercise that calls for a supportive and flexible shoe—one designed to keep us moving toward our weight-loss and fitness goals.
Your walking shoes should have good shock absorption in the heels and in the balls of the feet. They should be a bit stiffer and more supportive than running shoes, although they need to have a very flexible forefoot to allow for the natural bend of the foot. The midsoles will be thinner than those of running shoes in order to accommodate the slower foot roll when you walk. Look for a shoe that features beveled, or slightly angled, heels to allow for a smooth heel-to-toe roll.
Beyond these basic traits, look for a shoe that matches your foot type:
Pronators have feet that roll excessively inward when they walk. Look for a board-lasted shoe (the inside of the shoe is glued rather than stitched in place) that has a motion-control device in the midsole. A straight-shaped shoe, which provides support for the inside of the foot and thus prevents you from overusing the inside edge of your foot, is also preferable. (When you look at the bottom of the shoe it will have very little curve.) Another plus is a reinforced heel for control and stability. Sturdy uppers and stability straps can also help prevent inward roll. Shoes with too much padding can exaggerate pronation, so avoid them.
Supinators roll their feet to the outside when they walk. Look for greater stability and a shoe whose outsole, insole and midsole are designed for extra shock absorbency. Slip-lasted shoes, with their inside inserts stitched into the bottom of the shoe, are best, as supinators have such rigid feet. Look for a curved shape; when you look at the bottom of the shoe, the top will curve inward. Buy shoes with reinforced material around the ankles and firm heels for maximum ankle and heel support. Extra cushioning under the ball of the foot helps increase comfort.
Owners of neutral feet—feet that don't roll too much inward or outward—can wear just about any shoe and be sure of proper support and comfort. But even if your feet are neutral and you have no problems with injury, don't skimp on the basic walking-shoe features.
Not sure about your foot type? Grab an old pair of walking or everyday wear shoes and place them on a level table. Walk around behind them and crouch down so that the top edges of the soles are at eye level. If the upper part of the shoe caves excessively inward relative to the soles, you're a pronator. If the uppers lean excessively outward in relation to the sole, you're a supinator. If the uppers break only slightly either way, you have neutral feet.
MY THOUGHTS
i have neutral feet. i tested 3 different types of shoes just to be sure. but i don't think i have the perfect pair of walking shoes. maybe i should get one. especially since i spend my lunch hour walking.
Monday, December 13, 2010
Saying "I Do" to Beautiful Shoes
Saying "I Do" to a Shoe
Selecting your wedding-day footwear
Melissa Kagan ON Feb 9, 2005 at 4:20AM
This may sound dramatic, but making the wrong shoe choice for your wedding night could prove to be the biggest mistake of your life. Because for all of the planning, money and time that goes into your big event, the last thing you want is to be hobbling around in agony while your guests are doing the mambo without you. Here's what you need to know before saying "I do" to a shoe.
Timing Is Everything
Don't buy your shoes before your dress, but do get them as early as possible. Why the rush? You need to know the height of your heel before you can alter your dress. If you get the dress altered in flats, your full-length gown could end up looking tea length when you slip into a higher heel. Also, buying your bridal shoes early will allow you to wear them around the house and get used to them in advance, which is a must. Spending your entire wedding day or evening in new shoes could result in blistering, hobbling and complaining and make even the happiest bride cry.
Height Matters
However tempting it may be to wear those six-inch ivory stilettos, think twice -- make that thrice -- before buying them. And if you are generally accustomed to wearing flats or low heels, don't think about it at all. You don't want to give yourself extra reasons to trip on your big day. On the other hand, if you're used to stepping, running and dancing in stilettos, go for it. Just keep in mind where you're going to be married. Some venues, like grassy lawns and beaches, should be considered heel-prohibitive terrain.
Watch Out For...
Beware of shoes with skinny straps and jeweled ornaments. Skinny straps tend to start digging into your feet after a couple of hours. Jeweled ornaments on the straps or other parts of the shoes can be dangerous because they have a tendency to catch on long trains and lacy hems. If you absolutely must have those Jimmy Choo rhinestone-strap pumps, try brushing clear nail polish onto the jeweled part of the shoe to create a smoother surface.
The Right White
If only all whites were the same. Alas, they are not, so make sure you take a swatch of fabric from your wedding dress or a photo of it when you go shoe shopping. Since different shades show up differently on different fabrics, it would be wise to try and wear shinier shoes with a satin dress or matte shoes with a crepe dress. If the shoes of your dreams are only available in optic or bright white, ask the store or your local shoe repair shop to apply a "bridal" wash, which will tone the color down a bit.
Price Check
Confession time: We've all bought shoes that put us in the poorhouse before. But how much is too much for a pair of shoes you'll wear once? The dress is one thing, but will your aunts and uncles from Florida really notice that your shoes are made of imported satin? If you experience love at first sight with a pair of pricey pumps and are desperate to have them, make sure you find a style you can dye after the wedding so you can wear them again.
Now, about the shoes your groom is wearing...
MY THOUGHTS
i have no thoughts. hahaha. obviously i cannot relate. i agree with the author though. buying beautiful shoes, even if it's not for your wedding, should be given considerable thought. it's crazy to just go for beautiful shoes. Should be comfy and practical.
Selecting your wedding-day footwear
Melissa Kagan ON Feb 9, 2005 at 4:20AM
This may sound dramatic, but making the wrong shoe choice for your wedding night could prove to be the biggest mistake of your life. Because for all of the planning, money and time that goes into your big event, the last thing you want is to be hobbling around in agony while your guests are doing the mambo without you. Here's what you need to know before saying "I do" to a shoe.
Timing Is Everything
Don't buy your shoes before your dress, but do get them as early as possible. Why the rush? You need to know the height of your heel before you can alter your dress. If you get the dress altered in flats, your full-length gown could end up looking tea length when you slip into a higher heel. Also, buying your bridal shoes early will allow you to wear them around the house and get used to them in advance, which is a must. Spending your entire wedding day or evening in new shoes could result in blistering, hobbling and complaining and make even the happiest bride cry.
Height Matters
However tempting it may be to wear those six-inch ivory stilettos, think twice -- make that thrice -- before buying them. And if you are generally accustomed to wearing flats or low heels, don't think about it at all. You don't want to give yourself extra reasons to trip on your big day. On the other hand, if you're used to stepping, running and dancing in stilettos, go for it. Just keep in mind where you're going to be married. Some venues, like grassy lawns and beaches, should be considered heel-prohibitive terrain.
Watch Out For...
Beware of shoes with skinny straps and jeweled ornaments. Skinny straps tend to start digging into your feet after a couple of hours. Jeweled ornaments on the straps or other parts of the shoes can be dangerous because they have a tendency to catch on long trains and lacy hems. If you absolutely must have those Jimmy Choo rhinestone-strap pumps, try brushing clear nail polish onto the jeweled part of the shoe to create a smoother surface.
The Right White
If only all whites were the same. Alas, they are not, so make sure you take a swatch of fabric from your wedding dress or a photo of it when you go shoe shopping. Since different shades show up differently on different fabrics, it would be wise to try and wear shinier shoes with a satin dress or matte shoes with a crepe dress. If the shoes of your dreams are only available in optic or bright white, ask the store or your local shoe repair shop to apply a "bridal" wash, which will tone the color down a bit.
Price Check
Confession time: We've all bought shoes that put us in the poorhouse before. But how much is too much for a pair of shoes you'll wear once? The dress is one thing, but will your aunts and uncles from Florida really notice that your shoes are made of imported satin? If you experience love at first sight with a pair of pricey pumps and are desperate to have them, make sure you find a style you can dye after the wedding so you can wear them again.
Now, about the shoes your groom is wearing...
MY THOUGHTS
i have no thoughts. hahaha. obviously i cannot relate. i agree with the author though. buying beautiful shoes, even if it's not for your wedding, should be given considerable thought. it's crazy to just go for beautiful shoes. Should be comfy and practical.
Friday, December 10, 2010
Beautiful Shoes and Smal lFeet
Shoes Blues: Shopping for Small-Size Shoes
Melissa Kagan ON Jul 27, 2006 at 1:46AM
There's hardly an activity out there that's more satisfying or thrilling than shoe shopping. Except when you have small feet and can't find shoes that fit. Locating fashionable petite-size shoes is no easy feet, er, feat. Just ask Eileen from Weehawken, New Jersey. She has a size-5 foot and frequently finds herself reduced to shopping the kids' section of many stores. Cee from Illinois shares in this frustration. She often has to special order small shoes, a process that can be costly and time consuming. But what's the alternative? Petite-feet ladies, fret no more. Many retailers and Websites understand your plight and are now starting to stock stylish shoes in smaller sizes.
Whether you're looking for dress shoes, sexy heels, athletic sneakers, sandals or business shoes, online shopping gives you a wide selection of small sizes in a variety of different styles. That's where ShoeBuy.com comes into play. This wonder Website carries a variety of specialty sizes and styles for women who have trouble finding shoes that fit. It's a virtual shopping mecca for women looking to buy small-size shoes, with hundreds of styles from size 2 to 5, and it carries top brands such as Naturalizer, New Balance, Sebago and Sofft, to name a few. To top it all off, you can sign up to receive notification when new small shoes are added in your size. With free shipping and free returns, Shoebuy.com is a, ahem, shoe-in when it comes to best Websites.
The selection at Zappos.com starts at a size 3 but soars to hundreds of unique styles starting at size 4. Shoppers can find everything from sexy Stuart Weitzman stilettos and fashionable platforms by Lumiani to strappy sandals by Vaneli. This is good news for petite women who have had trouble finding high heels in the past. As Eileen from Weehawken puts it, "Don't shoe manufacturers realize that petite women want heels to look taller?" Zappos.com hears you, Eileen.
Formerly Shoedini.com, 6pm.com currently offers sizes 4 through 13 for women. "The smaller sizes are definitely a growing market for us, and we feel it is very important to offer a wide assortment in both fashion and comfort footwear," says spokesperson Alexandra Elliott. "We find that many of our customers come to our site specifically for the hard-to-find sizes, and our search-by-size feature is ideal for them." 6pm.com currently offers such brands as Franco Sarto, Kenneth Cole Reaction, Diesel, Ugg Australia and Dr. Scholl's. The site has just added the Jessica Simpson shoe line in sizes 5 through 11 for fall.
While online shopping is easy and fuss free, being able to try on shoes before purchasing them does have its advantages. Designers tend to size differently, and going to a retailer eliminates the problem of having to ship ill-fitting shoes back to a warehouse. Nordstrom is one example of a retailer that is committed to carrying a large variety of small sizes. Its selection consists of top brands such as Michael Kors, Anne Klein, Linea Paolo and Donald J Pliner. Nordstrom has excellent customer service, so if you can't find a certain pair of shoes in your size, the company will send a locator to find the shoes at a different location and have them sent to you. Nordstrom also has a mailing list to notify you when a specific petite-size shoe comes into its stores.
Trying to find more online retailers for small sizes? Look no further. We've short-listed our other favorites:
Cinderella of Boston
Cinderella of Boston is a Website dedicated solely (no pun intended) to women's petite footwear. Sizes range from 2 to 5 — narrow, medium or wide.
Steve Madden
Steve Madden's in-stock selection starts with a size 5, but the company has recently implemented an extended-sizes service where you create your own shoe (you can pick the color and material of the midsole, upper, heel and liner). These nonreturnable creations start at a size 4.
Shoes.com
Shoes.com is an online retailer that carries such high-end designers as Marc Jacobs and Emilio Pucci as well as more moderately priced labels like Mudd and Birkenstock. Note that there's a size 3 in the search menu but the selection consists only of two to three styles; the selection becomes fabulous starting with a size 4 (narrow and medium).
Jildor Shoes
The Jildor Shoes site has an amazing selection of small sizes that starts with a size 4. It even has an exclusive line designed by Vaneli that is offered in petites.
MY THOUGHTS
i agree. there's nothing as thrilling as shopping for beautiful shoes. and i'm lucky my feet size is not small. my sister and aunt have really small feet. and i don't envy them when they have to go to the children's area.
Melissa Kagan ON Jul 27, 2006 at 1:46AM
There's hardly an activity out there that's more satisfying or thrilling than shoe shopping. Except when you have small feet and can't find shoes that fit. Locating fashionable petite-size shoes is no easy feet, er, feat. Just ask Eileen from Weehawken, New Jersey. She has a size-5 foot and frequently finds herself reduced to shopping the kids' section of many stores. Cee from Illinois shares in this frustration. She often has to special order small shoes, a process that can be costly and time consuming. But what's the alternative? Petite-feet ladies, fret no more. Many retailers and Websites understand your plight and are now starting to stock stylish shoes in smaller sizes.
Whether you're looking for dress shoes, sexy heels, athletic sneakers, sandals or business shoes, online shopping gives you a wide selection of small sizes in a variety of different styles. That's where ShoeBuy.com comes into play. This wonder Website carries a variety of specialty sizes and styles for women who have trouble finding shoes that fit. It's a virtual shopping mecca for women looking to buy small-size shoes, with hundreds of styles from size 2 to 5, and it carries top brands such as Naturalizer, New Balance, Sebago and Sofft, to name a few. To top it all off, you can sign up to receive notification when new small shoes are added in your size. With free shipping and free returns, Shoebuy.com is a, ahem, shoe-in when it comes to best Websites.
The selection at Zappos.com starts at a size 3 but soars to hundreds of unique styles starting at size 4. Shoppers can find everything from sexy Stuart Weitzman stilettos and fashionable platforms by Lumiani to strappy sandals by Vaneli. This is good news for petite women who have had trouble finding high heels in the past. As Eileen from Weehawken puts it, "Don't shoe manufacturers realize that petite women want heels to look taller?" Zappos.com hears you, Eileen.
Formerly Shoedini.com, 6pm.com currently offers sizes 4 through 13 for women. "The smaller sizes are definitely a growing market for us, and we feel it is very important to offer a wide assortment in both fashion and comfort footwear," says spokesperson Alexandra Elliott. "We find that many of our customers come to our site specifically for the hard-to-find sizes, and our search-by-size feature is ideal for them." 6pm.com currently offers such brands as Franco Sarto, Kenneth Cole Reaction, Diesel, Ugg Australia and Dr. Scholl's. The site has just added the Jessica Simpson shoe line in sizes 5 through 11 for fall.
While online shopping is easy and fuss free, being able to try on shoes before purchasing them does have its advantages. Designers tend to size differently, and going to a retailer eliminates the problem of having to ship ill-fitting shoes back to a warehouse. Nordstrom is one example of a retailer that is committed to carrying a large variety of small sizes. Its selection consists of top brands such as Michael Kors, Anne Klein, Linea Paolo and Donald J Pliner. Nordstrom has excellent customer service, so if you can't find a certain pair of shoes in your size, the company will send a locator to find the shoes at a different location and have them sent to you. Nordstrom also has a mailing list to notify you when a specific petite-size shoe comes into its stores.
Trying to find more online retailers for small sizes? Look no further. We've short-listed our other favorites:
Cinderella of Boston
Cinderella of Boston is a Website dedicated solely (no pun intended) to women's petite footwear. Sizes range from 2 to 5 — narrow, medium or wide.
Steve Madden
Steve Madden's in-stock selection starts with a size 5, but the company has recently implemented an extended-sizes service where you create your own shoe (you can pick the color and material of the midsole, upper, heel and liner). These nonreturnable creations start at a size 4.
Shoes.com
Shoes.com is an online retailer that carries such high-end designers as Marc Jacobs and Emilio Pucci as well as more moderately priced labels like Mudd and Birkenstock. Note that there's a size 3 in the search menu but the selection consists only of two to three styles; the selection becomes fabulous starting with a size 4 (narrow and medium).
Jildor Shoes
The Jildor Shoes site has an amazing selection of small sizes that starts with a size 4. It even has an exclusive line designed by Vaneli that is offered in petites.
MY THOUGHTS
i agree. there's nothing as thrilling as shopping for beautiful shoes. and i'm lucky my feet size is not small. my sister and aunt have really small feet. and i don't envy them when they have to go to the children's area.
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Finding Beautiful Shoes
Best Shoes
Secrets for Finding the Best Shoes
By Desiree Stimpert, About.com Guide
Did you ever wonder how some people manage to find all the best shoes while your closet seems to be teeming with black pumps and cross-trainers? It doesn't take a lot of money or a stylist to have attention-getting footwear. In fact, armed with these tips, you'll find that you can have shoes you love, no matter how small your budget is.
Colors
You can have a wardrobe full of killer shoes without ever straying from basic black, but a littler color never hurt anyone.
If you're not comfortable in bright shades, don't wear them. But just because you don't see yourself as a red stiletto type, doesn't mean you're condemned to a life in brown loafers.
Assess your wardrobe, your lifestyle, and your personality, and look for shoes in colors that fit in well with all three.
If you love earth tones, next time, take a chance and try a pair of rust shoes instead of dark brown. Do you have a lot of navy suits? Chartreuse, red, cream and white all look great with that shade.
Much like painting a room, adding colorful shoes is one of the simplest ways to make over an outfit.
Prints
Print shoes are loads of fun, and can inject tons of personality into an outfit. Plaids, florals, paisleys and geometric shapes all add color and interest, while also making it easier to work out the rest of your outfit. For example, a pair of pumps that feature blue and purple make you all that more confident about pairing a purple belt with your blue dress.
But print shoes can also be a bit of a slippery slope. Unless you have a larger-than-life personality and the fashion sense to pull them off, you might want to steer clear of shoes that combine several prints, are too "zany," or in general, look as if they might have been someone's home ec project.
Accents
It's amazing what a simple buckle can do for a shoe. Especially if it's a really nice, big, round, shiny buckle -- you know, the kind that just looks really polished and nice.
Buckles, gems, brooches, buttons, bows ... all these little accents can really make a pair of shoes, but again, the key is moderation.
While certain occasions and outfits are perfectly suited to shoes that are overly embellished, for everyday wear it's best to keep your head.
Think chic and streamlined, and look for styles that won't seem too outrageous a year or two down the road.
Heels
It seems that a lot of women think that shoes fall into only two categories: stilettos and flats -- or in more extreme cases, stilettos and cross-trainers. But there's a wide, wonderful world of shoes out there that fall somewhere in between the two styles. And while I'll agree that most stilettos are not comfortable, I've worn my share of flats that aren't either.
Low heels, chunky heels, wedge heels, and kitten heels are just a few of the options available to women who don't want to wear sky-high heels, but don't want to spend their lives in sneakers either.
And if you do want to spend your life in flats? By all means, have at it. Chic loafers and ballerina flats never go out of style. But if you're less than thrilled when you look down at your own feet, try looking for nice textures, colors, finishes and accents that will take those flats to a whole new level.
Textures and Finishes
Another huge factor that's often overlooked when buying shoes is their texture, yet a texturally interesting shoe is a shoe that grabs attention. A patent finish is like a magnet for the eyes, especially when it's paired with an otherwise matte outfit, and metallic leathers shimmer with every step you take.
But if shiny isn't your thing, that's okay, there's always suedes, tweeds, velvets, satins, tapestries, brocades, linens, canvas, quilted fabrics, and combinations of all of those materials -- the list is endless.
You Don't Have to Follow Trends
It's fun to look at the newest trends, but it's far better on your checkbook if you're not buying shoes that are so trendy they'll seem out of style next year.
I'd also argue that it's actually more fun to cultivate your own style over a lifetime than it is to just tear out the latest "What's Hot" list and head off to the nearest department store.
If a trend does happen to fit into your own personal style, then it's you're opportunity to go crazy.
I've always love patent leather and platform shoes, so for me, having them so easily accessible over these last couple of years has been like a bit of a fire sale -- and it's kept me from having to shop vintage.
However, if you're only wearing a certain style because it's "in," and not because you really love it, don't invest too much time or money into the trend. Instead keep looking for those shoes that fit your custom style.
You Don't Have to Spend a Lot to Have Great-Looking Shoes
One of my favorite pair of shoes cost me about $25. Ironically, they're also one of the most comfortable pairs of shoes I own. They also happen to be my favorite color (red), my favorite finish (patent), have platform soles and shiny silver buckles -- also two of my favorite things.
They're nearly the perfect pair of shoes for me. But I never would have bought them if I wasn't willing to try on a lot of different brands, shop on sale, and look for shoes at any store that sells them.
It's easy to fall in love with one brand or designer, and want to stick with them. If their shoes are comfortable and you love the way they look, why shouldn't you be loyal? But it's important to know -- especially if you can't afford those higher price tags -- that comfortable and attractive shoes can be had for less. You just need to keep looking.
Watch Out for the Logo Trap
Avoid shoes with overdone logos, labels and other trademarks.
I know it's tempting to let the world know which designer or brand you're wearing by having their trademark, logo or initials cover every inch of your feet, but really, a little of this look goes a long way.
It's okay to favor a particular label, but it's far more impressive and stylish to opt for the styles that aren't so blatant about who made them -- and those styles are usually easier to wear anyway.
MY THOUGHTS
it seems i do not have a problem. or my problem is i love color and prints and accents. maybe that's the reason why i have so many shoes. i'm not label conscious. but i'm particular about character. oh yes, beautiful shoes are those with character. it's not pricey but definitely classy.
Secrets for Finding the Best Shoes
By Desiree Stimpert, About.com Guide
Did you ever wonder how some people manage to find all the best shoes while your closet seems to be teeming with black pumps and cross-trainers? It doesn't take a lot of money or a stylist to have attention-getting footwear. In fact, armed with these tips, you'll find that you can have shoes you love, no matter how small your budget is.
Colors
You can have a wardrobe full of killer shoes without ever straying from basic black, but a littler color never hurt anyone.
If you're not comfortable in bright shades, don't wear them. But just because you don't see yourself as a red stiletto type, doesn't mean you're condemned to a life in brown loafers.
Assess your wardrobe, your lifestyle, and your personality, and look for shoes in colors that fit in well with all three.
If you love earth tones, next time, take a chance and try a pair of rust shoes instead of dark brown. Do you have a lot of navy suits? Chartreuse, red, cream and white all look great with that shade.
Much like painting a room, adding colorful shoes is one of the simplest ways to make over an outfit.
Prints
Print shoes are loads of fun, and can inject tons of personality into an outfit. Plaids, florals, paisleys and geometric shapes all add color and interest, while also making it easier to work out the rest of your outfit. For example, a pair of pumps that feature blue and purple make you all that more confident about pairing a purple belt with your blue dress.
But print shoes can also be a bit of a slippery slope. Unless you have a larger-than-life personality and the fashion sense to pull them off, you might want to steer clear of shoes that combine several prints, are too "zany," or in general, look as if they might have been someone's home ec project.
Accents
It's amazing what a simple buckle can do for a shoe. Especially if it's a really nice, big, round, shiny buckle -- you know, the kind that just looks really polished and nice.
Buckles, gems, brooches, buttons, bows ... all these little accents can really make a pair of shoes, but again, the key is moderation.
While certain occasions and outfits are perfectly suited to shoes that are overly embellished, for everyday wear it's best to keep your head.
Think chic and streamlined, and look for styles that won't seem too outrageous a year or two down the road.
Heels
It seems that a lot of women think that shoes fall into only two categories: stilettos and flats -- or in more extreme cases, stilettos and cross-trainers. But there's a wide, wonderful world of shoes out there that fall somewhere in between the two styles. And while I'll agree that most stilettos are not comfortable, I've worn my share of flats that aren't either.
Low heels, chunky heels, wedge heels, and kitten heels are just a few of the options available to women who don't want to wear sky-high heels, but don't want to spend their lives in sneakers either.
And if you do want to spend your life in flats? By all means, have at it. Chic loafers and ballerina flats never go out of style. But if you're less than thrilled when you look down at your own feet, try looking for nice textures, colors, finishes and accents that will take those flats to a whole new level.
Textures and Finishes
Another huge factor that's often overlooked when buying shoes is their texture, yet a texturally interesting shoe is a shoe that grabs attention. A patent finish is like a magnet for the eyes, especially when it's paired with an otherwise matte outfit, and metallic leathers shimmer with every step you take.
But if shiny isn't your thing, that's okay, there's always suedes, tweeds, velvets, satins, tapestries, brocades, linens, canvas, quilted fabrics, and combinations of all of those materials -- the list is endless.
You Don't Have to Follow Trends
It's fun to look at the newest trends, but it's far better on your checkbook if you're not buying shoes that are so trendy they'll seem out of style next year.
I'd also argue that it's actually more fun to cultivate your own style over a lifetime than it is to just tear out the latest "What's Hot" list and head off to the nearest department store.
If a trend does happen to fit into your own personal style, then it's you're opportunity to go crazy.
I've always love patent leather and platform shoes, so for me, having them so easily accessible over these last couple of years has been like a bit of a fire sale -- and it's kept me from having to shop vintage.
However, if you're only wearing a certain style because it's "in," and not because you really love it, don't invest too much time or money into the trend. Instead keep looking for those shoes that fit your custom style.
You Don't Have to Spend a Lot to Have Great-Looking Shoes
One of my favorite pair of shoes cost me about $25. Ironically, they're also one of the most comfortable pairs of shoes I own. They also happen to be my favorite color (red), my favorite finish (patent), have platform soles and shiny silver buckles -- also two of my favorite things.
They're nearly the perfect pair of shoes for me. But I never would have bought them if I wasn't willing to try on a lot of different brands, shop on sale, and look for shoes at any store that sells them.
It's easy to fall in love with one brand or designer, and want to stick with them. If their shoes are comfortable and you love the way they look, why shouldn't you be loyal? But it's important to know -- especially if you can't afford those higher price tags -- that comfortable and attractive shoes can be had for less. You just need to keep looking.
Watch Out for the Logo Trap
Avoid shoes with overdone logos, labels and other trademarks.
I know it's tempting to let the world know which designer or brand you're wearing by having their trademark, logo or initials cover every inch of your feet, but really, a little of this look goes a long way.
It's okay to favor a particular label, but it's far more impressive and stylish to opt for the styles that aren't so blatant about who made them -- and those styles are usually easier to wear anyway.
MY THOUGHTS
it seems i do not have a problem. or my problem is i love color and prints and accents. maybe that's the reason why i have so many shoes. i'm not label conscious. but i'm particular about character. oh yes, beautiful shoes are those with character. it's not pricey but definitely classy.
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