11.02.09
The Obsession of Most Women
If you guessed “shoes”, then you’ve just won a million dollars! Just kidding! If I had a million dollars, I’d probably go out and shop for more shoes. Why, you ask? Because shoes are a wonderful way to express your individuality!
The right shoes can perform small miracles for your entire look. And that is why I’m dedicating this week’s blogs to shoes. *insert triumphant music*
We all have our particular weaknesses when it comes to footwear: Perhaps your closet is filled with pair upon pair of black boots? Red heels? Adorable flats? Slinky, strappy sandals? Hey, it happens. After all, shoes are the most seductive of accessories that can make us feel totally sexy, strong and wildly feminine. Then there are the more basic types of shoes. And while unadorned flat boots might not seem as exciting as bejeweled platforms, you’ll probably wear the former far more often. With this in mind, be as choosy with your everyday shoes as you are with your standouts, and you’ll always be walking tall.
While we’re on the subject of walking tall, let’s talk about heels. A medium height (2 inches) flatters almost everyone. The most feminine type is slim, but the shape of the heel should match your body. For instance, skinny stilettos exaggerate the weight of a heavy frame, so thicker, stacked heels would be a better option.
The vamp, or top part of the shoe, is the most slimming if cut low toward the toe in a V or U shape. High-vamp closed-throat shoes, when worn with skirts, can make legs look shorter. High-cut shoes look best with pants (skinny, for an edgy look), matching tights, or, if you dare (and are blessed with long, thin legs), miniskirts.
A tapered toe provides the slimmest look, but if you find pointy toes too uncomfortable, opt for oval shapes.
T-straps, ankle straps and wide straps over the instep will all draw attention to your feet. T-straps can elongate the legs if their color matches your skin tone; dark or embellished ankle straps usually shorten the appearance of legs.
With evening wear it’s OK for your shoes to match your outfit exactly. With black, you can have a little fun with colorful or even patterned shoes. Metallics work almost as a neutral and can be worn day or night. With lighter-colored outfits, black shoes can seem too heavy and make legs appear shorter. White shoes can be jarring and break up the silhouette of your leg, so opt for softer ivories or creams instead. A shoe that matches your skin tone will make your legs look longer. If you’re the absent of color as I am, have fun finding a shoe that matches your skin tone. I know I’ll appreciate the lack of sun worshipping I do when I’m 80.
So which shoes are right for you? If you’re on the petite side, too-high heels can make you look off-balance. If you’re wearing flats, make sure they have a little lift. Match the tone of your shoes to your tights and skirt to elongate your legs.
If you have thick ankles or heavy calves, wear the highest heels that you are comfortable in, but make sure they’re not too spindly. Stacked heels or wedges are good options. Tall boots are also a smart choice. Midcalf boots often hit at the thickest part of the calf, so avoid these styles. Also, avoid square-toe styles, which may look too boxy.
I hope these simple pointers will put you several steps ahead on the road to finding footwear that complements you from the ground up.
These boots are made for walkin…….
