Dress Your Age, Not Your Shoe Size
By VERONICA RITTER
Asst. Life Editor
Published: Tuesday, September 6, 2011
Updated: Tuesday, September 6, 2011 22:09
"Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the street, fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening." – Coco Chanel.
As we grow up, our styles and what we like change drastically in order to reflect the person that we are. If they haven't, then they should. As you become older, it's important to dress and look your age. At a certain point, it is crucial to graduate from one wardrobe and move on to the next.
Now, in only the second week of school, what you're wearing still matters to the teachers that don't know you yet, and to potential friends. What you wear has the power to attract or repel people.
When dressing yourself, you may want to ask, "What type of people am I trying to invite into my life?" Or, "What message am I conveying through my outfit?"
Believe me, what you are wearing speaks volumes before you even get the chance to say, "It's so nice to meet you."
First impressions are crucial, especially when they have the ability to affect you for the rest of the year in a classroom setting. Also, being aware of your outfit at a job interview is extremely important. People judge you based on how well you put yourself together. It's beneficial for you to start taking your clothing as seriously as you take yourself, and others will do the same.
College is that opportune time that students begin to realize for themselves what it's like to be considered and treated like an adult. Not only are students given the chance to find out who they are and what interests them, but also gives them an opportunity to start fresh and recreate themselves — wardrobe and all.
I'm not telling you to become obsessed with fashion or spend more time figuring out what to wear rather than studying by any means. What I am suggesting, though, is that you take a few extra minutes everyday in the thought and planning of an outfit.
If you've never thought about it before and just grabbed whatever was at the top of your clean laundry pile, just take a moment and ask yourself the important questions. Or perhaps, go through your closet to get rid of things that are no longer relevant to your life — like that miniskirt from eight grade or your T-shirts with the cheesy logos. It will only help you in the long run to make room for new and grown-up clothing in that third grade closet of yours.
Simple items like a blazer (for girls and guys) adds instant sophistication to an outfit. Also, other pieces such as a pair of chic flats, or even a not-so-high platform for girls, adds a mature touch. Guys, boat shoes and loafers do the trick most times as long as you're matching it with appropriate things on top, such as a simple colored crew or V-neck T-shirt.
Whether or not you've taken anything I've said to heart, try to remember these simple seven words. Dress your age, not your shoe size.
Email: veronica.ritter@ubspectrum.com
MY THOUGHTS
So, do you look your age in your beautiful shoes? Or do your beautiful look like it was meant for your teenage daughter or sister? I agree with the author, when shopping for beatiful shoes and wearing them, consider your age. You should draw attention, if you want to, because of your elegance and fashion sense. Not because people are sneering and laughing at you. You want your beautiful shoes to make you beautiful and not a laughing stock.
Showing posts with label fashion. Show all posts
Showing posts with label fashion. Show all posts
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Are Asian Feet Different?
Are Asian Feet Different?
Is the shape of an Asian foot different from a Western one?
Apparently, that’s what the luxury shoe brand Rupert Sanderson is banking on with its new line, which it says is tailored to an Asian foot. The shoes will hit shelves in its Hong Kong boutique next month.
The brand, also sold at Lane Crawford, is managed in Asia by Bruton Limited, a Hong Kong-based company headed by Bertrand Mak and Teresa Wong.
“We basically developed a new last [the mold on which a shoe is built] that is tailor-made for the Asian foot,” says Mr. Mak. “We’re trying to make a four-inch [10-centimeter] heel more comfortable.”
According to Mr. Mak, Asian feet tend to be higher-arched and narrower than their Western counterparts. The custom mold will provide greater support for the instep, says Mr. Mak, and make the heel “feel considerably lower” — indeed, half as high.
Science, though, disputes Mr. Mak’s claims.
“Asian feet tend to be slightly broader in the forefoot and they have a lower arch profile,” says Hong Kong podiatrist Alexandra Duff, who has been practicing for 15 years. In fact, she says, about 80% of Asians are flat-footed — more than any other ethnic group.
Mr. Mak admits that he did not consult a podiatrist in making the mold. Instead, his research consisted of speaking with friends and customers. “I have no interest in going into the technical aspects of making a shoe,” he says. The mold was also created from the casting of a single foot: that of business partner Teresa Wong, who he says has very high arches.
“Of course it’s not very accurate; every foot is different,” admits Mr. Mak. “We took a more pragmatic approach — our customers were saying that the shoe styles did not feel supported.”
But extra support for the arches will do little to alleviate the damage high heels inflict on women’s bodies, says Dr. Duff, who recommends that women stick to heels under 1.5 inches (3.8 centimeters).
“Once you go over that, your foot doesn’t work properly at all,” she says. “It’ll increase lower-back pain and give you knee issues.”
As for the Rupert Sanderson mold? “You’re just putting a little build-up in the inside of the shoe, but it’s still a four-inch heel,” she says. “It’s like wearing a pair of Jimmy Choos with an insole in it.”
MY THOUGHTS
i never really thought of the differences. i know we Asians can wear shoes made outside of our continent. it's true though that our feet are smaller but broader and we have a lot of flat-footed individuals. so, this may well be a welcome change. we Asians must be one big market for shoes if someone had taken the risk to specialize on beautiful shoes for Asian feet.
Is the shape of an Asian foot different from a Western one?
Apparently, that’s what the luxury shoe brand Rupert Sanderson is banking on with its new line, which it says is tailored to an Asian foot. The shoes will hit shelves in its Hong Kong boutique next month.
The brand, also sold at Lane Crawford, is managed in Asia by Bruton Limited, a Hong Kong-based company headed by Bertrand Mak and Teresa Wong.
“We basically developed a new last [the mold on which a shoe is built] that is tailor-made for the Asian foot,” says Mr. Mak. “We’re trying to make a four-inch [10-centimeter] heel more comfortable.”
According to Mr. Mak, Asian feet tend to be higher-arched and narrower than their Western counterparts. The custom mold will provide greater support for the instep, says Mr. Mak, and make the heel “feel considerably lower” — indeed, half as high.
Science, though, disputes Mr. Mak’s claims.
“Asian feet tend to be slightly broader in the forefoot and they have a lower arch profile,” says Hong Kong podiatrist Alexandra Duff, who has been practicing for 15 years. In fact, she says, about 80% of Asians are flat-footed — more than any other ethnic group.
Mr. Mak admits that he did not consult a podiatrist in making the mold. Instead, his research consisted of speaking with friends and customers. “I have no interest in going into the technical aspects of making a shoe,” he says. The mold was also created from the casting of a single foot: that of business partner Teresa Wong, who he says has very high arches.
“Of course it’s not very accurate; every foot is different,” admits Mr. Mak. “We took a more pragmatic approach — our customers were saying that the shoe styles did not feel supported.”
But extra support for the arches will do little to alleviate the damage high heels inflict on women’s bodies, says Dr. Duff, who recommends that women stick to heels under 1.5 inches (3.8 centimeters).
“Once you go over that, your foot doesn’t work properly at all,” she says. “It’ll increase lower-back pain and give you knee issues.”
As for the Rupert Sanderson mold? “You’re just putting a little build-up in the inside of the shoe, but it’s still a four-inch heel,” she says. “It’s like wearing a pair of Jimmy Choos with an insole in it.”
MY THOUGHTS
i never really thought of the differences. i know we Asians can wear shoes made outside of our continent. it's true though that our feet are smaller but broader and we have a lot of flat-footed individuals. so, this may well be a welcome change. we Asians must be one big market for shoes if someone had taken the risk to specialize on beautiful shoes for Asian feet.
Sunday, January 2, 2011
A Unique Beautiful Shoe Experience
Custom Shoes and a Unique Shoe Experience
A new show store that allows one to create their own designer shoes has opened in Bethesda Maryland. It is the first of its kind on the Eastern Seaboard.
Bethesda, DC, December 22, 2010 --(PR.com)-- A new concept in designer women’s shoes was launched this week by Bethesda native Nina Kimmel, making it the first of its kind on the Eastern Seaboard. My Shoe Cafe, a unique build-it-yourself custom design shoe store, opened this week in the Westfield Montgomery Mall, Bethesda, Maryland. Sporting the slogan, “Where sole mates are made…”, it provides a new and creative experience for woman looking for the ultimate in personalized shoes. My Shoe Cafe is a combination of Kimmel’s love of designer shoes and a passion she developed for cafes while traveling in Europe. “For me and so other women, shoes are not just something you wear on your feet, they are a statement and reflect ones personality,” said Kimmel. “In My Shoe Cafe you become your own personal shoe designer!”
Born and raised in Bethesda, 26-year-old Kimmel’s s love affair with shoes and fashion started with her strutting around in her mother’s shoes and clothes as a youngster but developed quickly when as early as 8 years old she had the opportunity to accompany her parents to the fashion centers of Milan, Paris, Madrid and London. Nina’s favorite activity when in these cities was to look at, try on and buy shoes.
At 16 Nina’s personal shoe collection had grown to 200 pairs. While on a summer vacation in Paris with her family that same year, Nina purchased clothes and a fun pair of heels on des Champs-Elysees and then decided to show them off as she hung out at a local cafe. She concluded at this point that fashion and cafes made a perfect fit.
My Shoe Cafe offers a broad array of colors, fabrics and shoe accessories for customers to select from when “building” their own customerized shoe. One of the unique elements of the store is a full time cobbler, with 20 years experience in the shoe-making and repair business. While customers relax and sip complimentary coffee, their personalized shoes—custom made to fit each foot—are created while they wait. An additional service allows customers to bring in their existing shoes and select and add My Shoe Cafe accessories to give their shoes a new and refreshing lift. My Shoe Cafe’s spacious premises are ideal for a “girls night out” or for birthday parties, bridal showers, bachelorette parties and similar fun shoe events.
MY THOUGHTS
i like this idea. nope. that's not exactly correct. i love this idea. coffee and shoes. shoes and coffee. whichever way,love them both
A new show store that allows one to create their own designer shoes has opened in Bethesda Maryland. It is the first of its kind on the Eastern Seaboard.
Bethesda, DC, December 22, 2010 --(PR.com)-- A new concept in designer women’s shoes was launched this week by Bethesda native Nina Kimmel, making it the first of its kind on the Eastern Seaboard. My Shoe Cafe, a unique build-it-yourself custom design shoe store, opened this week in the Westfield Montgomery Mall, Bethesda, Maryland. Sporting the slogan, “Where sole mates are made…”, it provides a new and creative experience for woman looking for the ultimate in personalized shoes. My Shoe Cafe is a combination of Kimmel’s love of designer shoes and a passion she developed for cafes while traveling in Europe. “For me and so other women, shoes are not just something you wear on your feet, they are a statement and reflect ones personality,” said Kimmel. “In My Shoe Cafe you become your own personal shoe designer!”
Born and raised in Bethesda, 26-year-old Kimmel’s s love affair with shoes and fashion started with her strutting around in her mother’s shoes and clothes as a youngster but developed quickly when as early as 8 years old she had the opportunity to accompany her parents to the fashion centers of Milan, Paris, Madrid and London. Nina’s favorite activity when in these cities was to look at, try on and buy shoes.
At 16 Nina’s personal shoe collection had grown to 200 pairs. While on a summer vacation in Paris with her family that same year, Nina purchased clothes and a fun pair of heels on des Champs-Elysees and then decided to show them off as she hung out at a local cafe. She concluded at this point that fashion and cafes made a perfect fit.
My Shoe Cafe offers a broad array of colors, fabrics and shoe accessories for customers to select from when “building” their own customerized shoe. One of the unique elements of the store is a full time cobbler, with 20 years experience in the shoe-making and repair business. While customers relax and sip complimentary coffee, their personalized shoes—custom made to fit each foot—are created while they wait. An additional service allows customers to bring in their existing shoes and select and add My Shoe Cafe accessories to give their shoes a new and refreshing lift. My Shoe Cafe’s spacious premises are ideal for a “girls night out” or for birthday parties, bridal showers, bachelorette parties and similar fun shoe events.
MY THOUGHTS
i like this idea. nope. that's not exactly correct. i love this idea. coffee and shoes. shoes and coffee. whichever way,love them both
Sunday, November 28, 2010
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.
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.
Saturday, November 13, 2010
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Saturday, October 23, 2010
Men Don't Notice If Women Wear High Heels
Relationships Study: Men Don't Notice If Women Wear High Heels
By: Megan Friedman
Topics: attraction, fashion, high heels, Men, relationships, style, Women
What is love worth? It's one of the universal, unanswerable questions we answered for you yesterday (you're welcome by the way). But ladies, here's one revelation about what might not be worth it: Enduring the agony of high heels.
Researchers at Northumbria University have found that men cannot tell whether women are wearing high heels when they walk. (Meanwhile, another survey today shows that 1 in 4 Americans remain "plugged in" to the Internet during sex)
The study is part of a larger investigation in evolutionary psychology, examining the signals men and women send when they walk or dance.
(More on TIME.com: See pictures of a day in the life of a Fashion Week model.)
Why focus on heels? The researchers wanted to know whether the changed posture that comes with high heels — longer legs, accentuated rear and tilted torso — get noticed by men. Turns out, not so much. Think about that next time you pick up a pair of stilettos.
(More on TIME.com: See a video about the hazards of high heels.)
MY THOUGHTS
why would they? they would be on the look out for the legs - doesn't matter what's attached to it.
By: Megan Friedman
Topics: attraction, fashion, high heels, Men, relationships, style, Women
What is love worth? It's one of the universal, unanswerable questions we answered for you yesterday (you're welcome by the way). But ladies, here's one revelation about what might not be worth it: Enduring the agony of high heels.
Researchers at Northumbria University have found that men cannot tell whether women are wearing high heels when they walk. (Meanwhile, another survey today shows that 1 in 4 Americans remain "plugged in" to the Internet during sex)
The study is part of a larger investigation in evolutionary psychology, examining the signals men and women send when they walk or dance.
(More on TIME.com: See pictures of a day in the life of a Fashion Week model.)
Why focus on heels? The researchers wanted to know whether the changed posture that comes with high heels — longer legs, accentuated rear and tilted torso — get noticed by men. Turns out, not so much. Think about that next time you pick up a pair of stilettos.
(More on TIME.com: See a video about the hazards of high heels.)
MY THOUGHTS
why would they? they would be on the look out for the legs - doesn't matter what's attached to it.
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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