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April 2009 Blogs
Fashion Tips: SHOES
FASHION, April 2009, by Nadio Baboo
Fashion Tips:
SHOES
Some of my clients tell me that one of the reasons they love shoe shopping so much is because even if their dress size goes up and down, they can always rely on their shoe size to be consistent!
That may be so for full-grown women, but for tweens and teens, feet usually don’t stop growing until you’re anywhere between 13-15 years old. When choosing your next pair of shoes, don’t just consider how fashionable they are, but how well they fit. Your bones are still growing – they’re delicate and prone to injury. Once they’ve stopped growing, respect your feet size and shape. Here are some tips to help you choose your best style!
Tip #1: Find the right size!
Every time you go shoe shopping, have the sales associate measure your foot for both length & width. Remember that all brands are not created equal. You may need to go up or down a half or full size depending on the cut of the shoe. Never buy a shoe that feels too tight, even if it’s the right size. Most shoes won’t ‘stretch’ enough to accommodate your foot, especially if it’s man-made material. You’ll regret it at the end of the day when your foot is swollen & painful. If the shoe's too loose, try an insole – if that doesn’t work, let it go.
#2: Shop at the right time of day!
Do your shoe shopping in the evening when you’ve been on your feet all day – then you’ll know the shoes will be comfortable even when your feet are tired and slightly swollen.
Tip #3: Find the right style!
Ankle straps – great for long, slim legs. If you have shorter legs or fuller ankles and calves, avoid them. They cut off the line of the leg making them look shorter and stockier.
Chunky, platform styles – I know you love them, but they’re not the most flattering! Fuller figures and shorter heights look heavier and stunted. Petite and slimmer figures look off-balance.
Ballet flats – Great on everyone! My only suggestion is to find a pair that has a little more support in the bottom for your soles, arches and heels. If you’ve got thicker legs, this is essential as the daintiness of ballet flats can make the leg look larger. A stronger sole will keep it in balance.
Pointed toes – Elongate the line of the foot and leg – just make sure you don’t cram your toes into the end. They should stop just before the point starts. For a more roomy option, try an elongated square toe.
Rounded toes – A retro look; very comfortable and great for medium-sized feet & heights. But if you’re trying to look longer & leaner, avoid them. If you’ve got longer feet that you’d like to minimize, then these are perfect!
Wedges – Much more comfortable and supportive than regular pumps. They balance out thicker calves and ankles and elongate the leg.
Athletic shoes – The perfect staple in everyone’s shoe wardrobe! Have fun with colours, patterns and embellishments.
Shoes anchor our outfits and most importantly carry us through our lives. So be kind to your feet and choose your styles wisely to keep your feet feeling great and looking fabulous!
~ Nadia