{ a blog all about the love of shoes }
August 15, 2011 
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Trends come and go, but there are certain looks that you can always count on to get you through the seasons—year after fashionable year. The trick is to develop your own personal style, and then keep it classic by keeping trendy looks to a minimum.
Preparation and Dedication
You need to be ready to commit to a complete look (including the shoes) that will last season after season, and that you’ll enjoy. Think about your perfect style. Is it comfortable? Versatile? Dramatic? Professional? Consider what you do in your free time as well as what you need for work, and then look for shoes and separates that bridge the gap. After all, not all of us can have three bedrooms filled with clothes and shoes like our favorite celebrities—so we need to choose wisely.
Creating the Look
You can’t create your timeless look based on trends. Consider a classic shoe and clothing style that’s mixed together in a unique way to suit your body type. Wardrobe staples, like the classic sheath LBD, in addition to dark denim boot-cut jeans, a white button-down collared shirt, light cardigan sweaters in a variety of colors to wear during the cool days of fall and the early days of spring, are just the beginning. And for shoes, you can’t go wrong with the Caterina ballet flats from Audrey Brooke. They’re prefect for casual Fridays at the office as well as running all over town on the weekends. And if you need a little more height for your days at the office, we like the Dolly 2 ¾-inch pump from Calvin Klein. It’s simple, elegant, and timeless.
Stay True to the New You
Transitioning to your new look can be rough, whether it’s a complete overhaul or just a quick switch from your usual shoes and accessories. People will quickly adapt to your style, but you’ll have to handle a comment or two in the beginning. Sticking to a look you love and making it timeless is the goal, but if you work in an extremely strict environment that doesn’t look kindly upon fashion changes, you can always simply craft your look for the weekends and date nights. Mold it around your lifestyle, from head to toe.
Mei Sawyer and Dana Robinson
Mei Sawyer is an internationally published fashion journalist
Dana Robinson is the Editorial Manager of myShoes.com
August 9, 2011 Comments (0)
As a buyer and wearer of shoes from the ultra-funky 1970s, I’ll be the first to admit that vintage shoes of that decade aren’t the most comfortable. Platforms were high, arch support was minimal, and fad trends ruled the day when it came to style. I’ve learned a thing or two about shoes while tromping around in my 1970s clogs and platforms, and these lessons work for our current decade.
Lessons in Comfort
Comfort is key for any pair of shoes that I buy, and this rule applies for office shoes as well as dressy cocktail hour heels. Of course, must-have pairs get some leeway if they’re particularly stylish, but in general, comfortable shoes are something we all deserve. So when you’re out shoe shopping remember to look for shoes that don’t rub up against any part of your foot. If your shoes give you blisters or pinch so badly that you can barely take a step, then give them the heave ho. Unless, of course you’re ready to resign yourself to a life of bandages, gel pads, and Vaseline smears on the heels.
Style Mistakes
Trendy shoes can merely touch on a hot trend or go all-out—and it’s tempting to simply grab hot heels and play outfit matchmaker later. However, trendy shoes can last decades if you pay attention to just a few small tips while shopping. First off, remember that bright shoes are not the “new neutral.” A multicolored-strap shoe or a pair with a flower-power upper design might look good with jeans, but what if you’re not much of a jeans wearer? Always think about what you will wear the shoes with before you buy.
Also, keep in mind that light-colored summer shoes aren’t good for the budget-conscious. They don’t transition very well into the fall, and they will most likely take up residence in the back of your shoes closet at least eight months out of the year. Instead of light uppers, consider ones with airy cutouts that look feminine without sacrificing their lifespan.
Quittin’ Time!
Just like the beloved decade of the 70s, sometimes you just have to let things go—even your shoes. For example, shoes that make your arches ache need to go. There’s no need to risk foot health for shoes, no matter how cool they look. Even if you’re willing to handle a few aches, they could come back to bother you tenfold in later years.
You also need to get rid of shoes that can’t be repaired. If the soles are peeling, if the uppers are ripped, or if they’re just flat out worn out, then it’s time to let them go. Trust me, your feet will thank you for it.
Mei Sawyer
Mei Sawyer is an internationally published fashion journalist
August 1, 2011 Comments (1)
It’s the beginning of the month, and you know what that means: shoe horoscope time! Check out what the stars have in store for you and your shoes for the month of August. Are a new pair of ballet flats in your future? Or perhaps you’d be better off with some sky-high sling-backs or ankle booties for the fall. I changed my shopping plans after looking at my horoscope, and maybe you’ll do the same.
Leo (July 23 – Aug 22)
If you stay focused on booking those international travel plans, you might end up finding a low-priced deal to somewhere exciting. Look for cruises and packages that suit your fancy, and then get the corresponding footwear you’ll need for sailing the high seas or trekking the desert.
Virgo (Aug 23 – Sept 22)
You could be getting a small windfall if you’re lucky, and that means you’ll find your income substantially larger this month. Use a small portion of the funds to build up your autumn shoe wardrobe up, but don’t get too crazy. Remember that you’ve also got to make credit card payments this month in addition to paying for that big summer holiday you just took.
Libra (Sept 23 – Oct 22)
As the month progresses, Libra, you’ll find yourself concentrating on work partnerships. While you might have felt things getting rocky for you, now’s the time to put on a brave face and allow yourself to be more positive. Try to keep the good energy flowing this month as you move through August. Perhaps a group shopping escapade is in order to lift your spirits?
Scorpio (Oct 23 – Nov 21)
You are very precise, Scorpio, and that means you’ll get the attention you deserve. If your friends are all looking for deals, try to help them by using your methodical nature to scope out great shoe sales and promotions. Wear a pair of comfortable shoes while working, Scorpio, because you’ll be getting a lot of assignments. Prepare to be very busy!
Sagittarius (Nov 22 – Dec 21)
Your social life is really going to pick up, Sagittarius, and that means you’ll need to put on your dancing shoes. Don’t be afraid to kick up your heels when you feel the urge, because the stars are right behind you. Celebrate with some shoe buys that will leave you voted best dressed in any situation.
Capricorn (Dec 22 – Jan 19)
Don’t make any hasty decisions until after August 23, Capricorn. If you go shopping, you should start doing cost comparisons now, but don’t commit to a major load of great shoes until Mercury emerges from retrograde. You’ll find that if you commit prior to the 23rd, you’ll regret some of your purchases.
Aquarius (Jan 20 – Feb 18)
It might be time for you to take the reigns at the workplace and really go for that promotion you’ve had your eye on. If you find that business talks start to falter, don’t get mad. Get going! Checkout any alternative income possibilities or contact friends for job leads. And don’t forget to make sure that you’ve got plenty of interview-appropriate shoes to choose from.
Pisces (Feb 19 – March 20)
Pisces, this is a good month to project wealth, because financial luck will definitely be on your side. You’ll have a lot of important meetings coming up where you’ll get to talk money, and you’ll be surprised at what comes about for you. Don’t be intimidated by negotiating, just try to walk the walk. Shop for appropriate “meeting shoes” if necessary.
Aries (Mar 21 – Apr 19)
You’ll have the opportunity to highlight your leadership skills, Aries, so why not look the part? It’s high time you treated yourself to a new pair of shoes, and considering your luck, you’ll find a fantastic marked-down pair of your favorite label for less than you imagined.
Taurus (Apr 20 – May 20)
This month, you’ll find that you’re living a more private life than usual, and that’s good. Preparing for the explosion of luck that’s coming your way in two months, Taurus, you’ll be planning a new future without the distractions of your current life. Perhaps a wardrobe clean-out is in store.
Gemini (May 21 – June 20)
You might make some new friends, Gemini—creative ones who are younger than you. This is perfect for inspiration, so allow the new people in your life to make things more exciting. Listen to their advice on trends and apply it to your shopping experience this month. If you do so, you’ll be in for a stylish fall season.
Cancer (June 21 – July 22)
Cancer, this is a time to buckle down on your professional plans. If you try to cut down on the socializing, you’ll see major professional results that will color your life for a long time to come. Because you’ll be ladder climbing, you’ll need to be on the lookout for sale shoes with style. Let your intuition guide you.
Mei Sawyer
Mei Sawyer is an internationally published fashion journalist
July 26, 2011 Comments (0)
Earth Day may have passed back in April, but you still have every reason to try and make it Earth Day every day. When shoe shopping, try to veer toward brands that use smart materials, conscientious manufacturing, or reduced packaging to help make the world a greener place. To help give you a few fabulous green shoe ideas, we’ve put together some of the greenest and most on-trend options from our eco-friendly retailers. Remember that your small shopping decisions can help make a huge global impact.
Get Something Whimsical
Indulging your wild side comes easier with green footwear. You can get beautiful, slightly off-beat shoes from lesser-known labels that will still benefit the planet through production or packaging considerations. Just in time for fall you can check out the Jasper ankle booties from Naya in gray, black or red suede. Naya has successfully created a collection of beautiful, comfortable shoes that are made with soft leathers, premium cushioning, and whenever possible, materials that reduce environmental impact. The Jasper has a wooden height of about three inches and a retro lace-up design.
Another great option is the Nefertiti boot from Naya. Once again featuring the supple, luxurious feel of suede, this lace-up boot has a heel height of three inches and features a fleece/fur lining.
Shop for Basics
Green shoes may not always be the trendiest in town, but that doesn’t mean you can’t grab the basics when it comes to environmentally friendly footwear. Flats are very popular with plenty of respected greener labels, and it’s likely that you’ll find a great pair for running around town on the weekends. Naya offers the Begonia style that combines leather materials with a more delicate, girly shape, and they’re ideal for your busiest days that are chalk full of errands and pickup up and dropping off the kids. And since there are still a few hot summer days on the horizon, the Adria flip-flop from Birkenstock is the perfect choice for lounging around the house or making a quick trip to the grocery store.
Mei Sawyer and Dana Robinson
Mei Sawyer is an internationally published fashion journalist and Dana Robinson is the Editorial Manager of myShoes.com.
July 24, 2011 Comments (0)
You might be the type who’s more comfortable in athletic and performance shoes, but as you know, you can’t wear them all the time. Dress shoes for the athlete are hard to come by, but if you ignore shoes marketed as such and just go with your gut feeling, things will be easier. As a comfort junkie myself, these are my top selections.
Stretchy Shoes
Shoes with a stretchy upper mold to the feet better, which is much more comfortable. If you don’t wear leather, as a vegan or otherwise, then this is a particularly useful tip: Simply find shoes in stretch microfiber that stick to the curves of your feet. Stretchy-upper shoes can look sueded or can be bought in a patterned fabric. For summer, I like stripes.
Natural Shoes
A natural shoe is one that’s been manufactured from responsible material or that uses an eco-friendly technique. Natural shoes are less likely to chafe or blister the feet than synthetic leather, and they are often constructed using more intuitive design techniques. These shoes can remain perfectly comfortable for much longer than your average shoe.
Flexisoles
Sneakers have great shock absorption; ballet shoes move with the feet. To replicate that ease of movement one gets from athletic shoes, flexisoles are certainly the way to go. A flexible sole on the shoe means that even if the shoe is dressier than usual, it will feel more like a sneaker that’s molded to your feet.
Plain Shoes
Skipping the bells and whistles on a pair of shoes often means that you’ll be more comfortable. Plain shoes without thick laces, decorative details, or complicated closures are less likely to rub, bind, or pinch, particularly if the shoe has a rounded toe. If you need to add pep to your footwear, you can always aim for color.
Adjustable Pumps
I have a wonderful pair of pumps with multiple straps running across the upper, and they are amazing when my feet start to swell in the summer heat. Look for shoes with buttons, laces, or even hidden Velcro tabs that can be adjusted. Undo a few Velcro straps and then readjust them in the middle of the day, for example, and you have a comfortable, perfectly-fitting shoe again.
Mei Sawyer
Mei Sawyer is an internationally published fashion journalist.
July 22, 2011 Comments (1)
We all have friends who wear outrageous shoes, ones that catch our attention in a negative way and remind us to never, ever step out in that style if we can help it. You’ll find too-high heels in the office, flat-out unattractive shoes that should be sealed in a closet, and awkward sandals in this group. Let’s play the Classy or Trashy shoe game and see what you’ve learned about footwear mistakes.
Classy or Trashy? The Stiletto
The verdict: Classy with restrictions. Consider color and upper when it comes to your stilettos, and you’ll be alright. Calfskin is buttery and looks stunning with anything; cream leather with a peep toe is great for summertime. Steer clear of red patent leather and pleather versions. And no matter what style of stiletto you’ve got, please, please, please don’t wear them to the office!
Classy or Trashy? Satin Uppers
The verdict: Classy with restrictions. When you’re going to pick out a pair of satin uppers, you should aim for a sparing version in low-luster satin. Ones with bows and embellishments are great when pared down, and staying aware of proper proportions will help you flatter your feet.
Classy or Trashy? Open-Toe Flats
The verdict: Classy! With a nice pedicure and a cute skirt, these shoes are a good trade if you can’t wear strappy sandals at work. Open-toe flats are comfortable in a fabric upper, sophisticated in leather, and they provide great ventilation in the summer.
Classy or Trashy? Thick-Strap Sandals
The Verdict: Classy when casual. Sandals with thick straps are great for low-key wear and work perfectly with the wide-leg jeans trend of the season. While thick straps aren’t good for dressing up, they look more than perfect with a wrap skirt or short shorts. Look for ones with a trim heel to cut down on bulkiness.
The next time you shop for shoes, take a moment before you whip out your credit card and ask yourself, “Are these classy or trashy?” You’ll cut down on misguided purchases extremely quickly with this technique.
Mei Sawyer
Mei Sawyer is an internationally published fashion journalist.
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