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.
Showing posts with label Heels. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Heels. Show all posts
Monday, December 20, 2010
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.
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.
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Disposable Shoes in Vending Machines
Coming to a Club Near You: Disposable Shoes in a Vending Machine
By: Tara Kelly
Topics: shoes, Women, fashion, Heels, Vending machines, ballerina shoes, flats
Ladies, tired of those painful feet after a night spent tearing up the dance floor and swinging from the chandeliers? Forget that epic barefoot limp home. To soothe those aching soles, nightclubs in Munich, Germany have begun installing vending machines that sell disposable shoes.
German student Isabella Fendt came up with the idea "Ballerina to go" after experiencing one too many nights of sore disco feet herself. Priced at just $10, clubbers get a bag to put their heels in and to match their outfits, the flat ballet shoes come in gold, silver, black and purple. But with a recent study showing men don't notice if women wear heels or not, NewsFeed wonders — why even bother with stilettos in the first place?
(Watch the TIME Video on the Hazards and Power of High Heels)
MY THOUGHTS
i hope someone picks up and do something like this in the phil. i like the idea very much
By: Tara Kelly
Topics: shoes, Women, fashion, Heels, Vending machines, ballerina shoes, flats
Ladies, tired of those painful feet after a night spent tearing up the dance floor and swinging from the chandeliers? Forget that epic barefoot limp home. To soothe those aching soles, nightclubs in Munich, Germany have begun installing vending machines that sell disposable shoes.
German student Isabella Fendt came up with the idea "Ballerina to go" after experiencing one too many nights of sore disco feet herself. Priced at just $10, clubbers get a bag to put their heels in and to match their outfits, the flat ballet shoes come in gold, silver, black and purple. But with a recent study showing men don't notice if women wear heels or not, NewsFeed wonders — why even bother with stilettos in the first place?
(Watch the TIME Video on the Hazards and Power of High Heels)
MY THOUGHTS
i hope someone picks up and do something like this in the phil. i like the idea very much
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