Winter Foot Safety Tips

It may seem a little odd, in a shoe blog, to write about the dangers of, well, shoes. But, lets face it: We’re all going to be wearing some crazy heels and trendy boots this season. And, of course, our feet will suffer for it.

The goal is to be gorgeous, and yet be prepared. Winter boots that are made without support can cause your feet to become sore and achy. Most people suffer from foot and leg problems due to the lack arches in winter boots, such as UGGs, which lead to heal spurs and also shin splints. Luckily, Surgical Director of NYC FootCare, Dr. Oliver Zong, gave us some advice.

According to Dr. Zong, proper footwear for icy, slush conditions is a pair of waterproof boots with good traction on the bottom. These will keep you from slipping on the snowy pavement. Here’s some more of his do’s and don’ts:

* Do invest in boots with support and an arch
* Don’t wear boots with heels, to prevent slipping
* Do wear good socks to keep your feet insulated
* Don’t let your toenails go untrimmed
* Do keep your feet as dry as possible to avoid cracking of the skin
* Don’t forget to moisturize the soles and heels of your feet daily
* Do allow your feet to air out between shoe and sock changes

So, good luck. And when you do get that pair of Uggs – cause you know you will – go for a little color and make this trend your own. I’m rocking this adorable purple shade of the Ugg women’s classic tall boot, $179.99, at Shoes.com – how cute are they???

Halloween in Hindsight

I heart Halloween. Seriously, it’s not every night you get to dress up like a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader without eliciting haughty stares in San Francisco.

This year one of the only parties worth the hype was Vintage 415’s sold-out Stay Puft soiree at Yoshi’s, benefiting the CPMC SimSurg Education Center. Good music. Good crowd. Good costumes. Both floors were swarming with glitzy show girls, temptresses from the Garden of Eden, military men, and (my favorite) one very clever Alan and scene-stealing baby Carlos from the movie The Hangover.

Getting to Yoshi’s and back again in one collective group was half the adventure (it always is). Naturally, we learned plenty of lessons along the way. If you’ll be rocking cheerleader costumes next Halloween, savor these nuggets of wisdom:

1. Do the math before deciding how high your heels should be: 6 hours x 4 girls x 10 toes each adds up to some serious whimpering at the end of the night. Don’t spend much money on snow white boots—especially since they’ll be stained with other people’s drinks by midnight. Make like a genius (me) and slip a pair of white tube socks over your boots and poke the heel out with scissors.

2. For dinner, head to Mamacita to stuff your tiny white shorts with chips and guac and whatever those delicious pink shots were, and remember that Brazen Head serves desert until 2 pm. Something in that carrot cake and fallen angel cake relieves sore little piggies from a night of abuse.

3. Appoint a squad leader to “do the honors” when you’re approached by unsavory suitors dressed like creepy characters from A Clockwork Orange. One cheer that comes to mind: “U-G-L-Y you ain’t got no al-i-bi.” Or bust out with your own rendition of “I Kissed A Ghoul And I Liked It.”

4. Plan to take a cab everywhere, preferably with a male escort dressed as a very convincing police officer. Light-reflecting pom-poms make it exponentially easier to hail a cab out from under the noses of wealthy old socialites, which come first in this city every other night of the year.

5. If you desire to be seen before the promoted parties kick off, skip the house parties to “strut the nut” (Chestnut, that is). Busting a spontaneous move from outside the window at the Mac store can provide endless entertainment. Good luck getting the very serious, non-costumed computer shoppers to look up from the display merchandise.

6. Think before dancing with a man dressed like an injured superhero. Neck and knee braces mean Velcro, which equate to shredded nylon stockings. This goes without saying: always carry a back-up pair in your bra. The fact that I also managed to fit my trusty notepad and pen, blackberry, lipstick, gloss, cash and driver’s license is worthy of its own blog, no?

7. Don’t be fooled: You can’t be completely convinced you did Halloween “right” until the following morning at The Grove when you hear the tales from the parties you never made it to, or run into friends who slept in their makeup and are still going strong, striaght out of Night Of The Living Dead.

Stepping Up and Out

Recently, I underwent a little life tumultuousness.

The recession is hitting lots of people in various ways. Some are losing their jobs, some are taking on second ones to make ends meet. Others are just living in fear, afraid to order that takeout lunch or buy a new pair of shoes, because who knows what tomorrow will bring.

In my own case, after having a delusional period of security in the face of chaos – I even joked the recession was good for freelancers – I left a longterm gig -and despite having a dozen other jobs, I immediately began to obsess about everything from rent to whether I could still afford to exclusively buy organic vegetables.

Everyone told me everything would be alright – that historically, when one opportunity ends, I have a knack for finding a bigger and better one. And, not a month later, I did.

I realize that nothing in life is certain, and I think that moment of doubt taught me to be careful, and to think ahead, rather than in the moment. No matter how secure something seems – whether it’s a job, friendship, or a relationship – ultimately, you need to just be able to rely on yourself, your abilities, and your strength to move on and onward.

Shortly after regaining my mojo, I invested in these Two Lips Kitty Kat high  boots from Zappos.com, a steal at $99  – and their vibrant seductive suede is reflective of the me I’m ready to show the world. Sexy, tall, and sure – with a whole lot of sassy pink to share.

Considering Thigh-High Boots

Thigh-high boots are a pretty difficult decision for me.

I love them – a lot. And would like to wear them at regular intervals – but honestly, generally, don’t we sort of see them as a little…er…slutty?

Let’s face it, a lot of us discovered them years ago, when Julia Roberts made the thigh high boot famous – as a LADY OF THE NIGHT in “Pretty Woman.” I mean, I love Julia. And was rooting for her and everything, but she was still a hooker, ya know?

Zappos.com

What I’ve learned in my own experience, though, is that these boots are actually very wearable. If you think about it, they give you more coverage, than, say, leggings with your mini – and also, in my case, make your legs look thinner!

So, my rule? I will wear thigh highs – I will just shy away from, say, bright pink zip-up plastic-looking ones. Because THAT would be skanky. Instead, I’m all about choices like these Moschino tall suede boots in dark chocolate brown.

They are fun, and comfortable, and sexy without going too far — exactly what I want from my shoes (and my movies).

Over-the-Knee Boots: Not Just for “Working Girls”

I remember passing the time in the downtown mall/bus terminal, circa eleventh grade, gazing at the pairs of thigh-high patent boots displayed in the window of a lingerie shop. At the time they seemed so glamorous, so tough yet feminine. (Little did I know the store was frequented by ladies of the night.)

Over-the-knee boots are back — and this time for nice girls, too. Even Glamour Magazine noted the trend in an online blog (though the writer does wonder if the style is “is a bit too Pretty Woman“).

Two Lips by Kitty Kat

Apparently readers aren’t worried about the “working girl” connotation. First, five out of six styles that Glamour spotlights are already sold out. Second, readers responded with raves like, “Ok, so I was flipping through the April 2009 issue, and I saw a picture of these AMAZING over the knee pink suede boots that I am DYING to get” and “I’m in love! Victoria’s Secret had a pair for 100 bucks. they had the perfect heal plus you could just fold down the top and make them knee highs.”

Tall boots by Giuseppe Zanotti

Glamour readers are not the only ones trying on the trend. Says Fashionising.com: “Over-the-knee boots: they may yet be one of the biggest fashion trends in 2010. We touted them as one of the year’s biggest shoe trends only in mid-May, and yet we’ve already spotted them on everyone from Natalia Vodianova to Kristen Stewart.”

boots by Bronx at Victoria's Secret

And Coutorture.com reported this spring, “Over-the-knee boots were all over the Fall 2009 catwalks, in styles that ranged from stocking-like to trouser-like in their appearance … these boots will undoubtedly cost quite a bit when they hit the retail floor.”

A fetish-inspired style by Alexander McQueen

Cost is a detractor: Most styles on Zappos run over $100, and those that don’t tend to be fashioned from polyurethane. Very Pretty Woman. Another downside is wearability: this is a style that veers easily into fetish gear. (That’s fine if that’s your thing, but it’s a big departure for ballet flat fans…) Or, as Blogger Splendicity points out: “Though I’m not sure about this trend being able to translate from the runway to real life, designers are churning out these tall boots.”

Eve by Dolce Vita

Blogger ShoeGoddess offers up one idea for how to wear her pair of tall Dolce Vita Eve boots: “The cut-out in the back of the boot ensures that you get that full over-the-knee look, but you won’t be claustrophobic at the same time,” she writes. “Flat boots literally work with everything, but I especially like to pair them with skinny jeans.”

Spring Awakening in Winter?!?!?

With all the cookies lying around and bake sale treats to eat, I am starting to get a little robust-which is my nice way of saying fat. It is during these Yule Tide days that I am thankful that I write about shoes and not pants, because at this point I am not sure they sell bolts of fabric large enough to house my hips.

Hopefully, I will get some exercise this weekend on my yearly Christmas trip to New York City. I scored some great ON STAGE seats to Spring Awakening. I have seen the show once before and decided that I would buy some show “themed” shoes. The show takes place in the late 19^th Century in Germany. Popular boots in those days looked like this. I bought these slightly updated ones made by J. Shoes.

A quick google search later, and I find that I am not the only gal about town with these duds. Who knew Taylor Monsem of Gossip Girl and would have the same flare for Musical Theatre inspired shoes?!?!

These are my new favorite boots. At first glance they may seem ultra trendy, but I have worn them with leggings, jeans and dresses. I have taken the out on the town and pulled them off in a work environment. They are a true conversation starter, so those who shy away from being the center of attention may want to avoid these showstoppers (I couldn’t resist the pun).

I have about 20 people to buy for while I am in the city, and I haven’t the foggiest idea what I am going to get. I tend to panic shop. And this tends to end poorly. So, come Christmas morning while everyone else will be singing the blues, I can at least rest assured that my feet will be whistling a happy tune (last pun I swear).

The Infamous Mighty Humble Bumble Boots

In my family, one can hardly mention my Great Aunt Harriet’s name without someone throwing in a comment about these furry abominable snowman boots that she used to wear. For those of you that have been watching Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer this Holiday season, you can appreciate the Mighty Humble Bumble reference that most of my family uses when referring to these boots.

After hearing about these boots my entire life, imagine my surprise when my Aunt Pam (who’d acquired some of Aunt Harriet’s belongings over the year) pulled out the Humble Bumble boots on Thanksgiving day. As I sat there dazed by their awesome hairiness, trying to figure out if they’d fit my tootsies, Aunt Pam started talking about how she was going to burn them!!! Burn the Humble Bumble boots?! Why, that’s unthinkable! Sure, they’ve seen better days. Yes, they look like they need a trip to the hair salon. Maybe they kind of even shed –a lot. But burn them???
Luckily for me (and the boots) they were a perfect fit. It was truly a moment akin to that of Cinderella and her glass slipper. I think that with a little TLC and a good grooming, the Mighty Humble Bumble boots will be ready to make their debut on the après ski scene. I just hope that I’ve inherited at least some of Aunt Harriet’s sense of style and can keep people talking about my shoes for as long as she’s had people talking about the Mighty Humble Bumble boots!

Boot Hides in Iceland

The Catfish is Out of the Bag!

I love secrets but sometimes I hate to keep them. Iceland, however, is just the opposite. It is riddled and defined by enigmas. After all, how can one island be the home to Europe’s largest desert and glaciers? Why have so many elves or “hidden people” chosen to migrate there? Why does anyone expect tourists to know that the road from Hafnarfjörður to Grindavik is impassable if they don’t put up a sign? You have no idea how easy it is to get stranded on an ice bank in the middle…

Oops. Perhaps there are some stories that shouldn’t be shared (especially with rental car companies).

At any rate, now that the Icelandic economy has imploded, it is quickly becoming a more affordable option for Americans. Even if you aren’t interested in the Northern Lights or the Blue Lagoon, Maria K Magnusdottir might lure you there. This statuesque, blonde, mother of two who just happens to be fluent in Icelandic, Danish, German, French, English (and studies Chinese in her spare time), is an independent, shoe designing mastermind. Seriously, look at those boots.

Psst. They are made OUT OF CATFISH SKINS!! (See I told you, I am hopeless with an inside scoop.)

While many people politely peel off a catfish’s skin and abandon it at the side of their plate, Maria has 7.5 of them shaped into the sophisticated front side of these shoes. Maria also employs salmon and perch in her distinctive designs.

Personally, I relish the unusual and am very curious about alternative leathers, such as my limited edition elk leather boots. However, I know some people might get freaked out by putting fish skins on their feet. Perhaps I should mention that they feel fabulous and don’t smell funky. Also, these durable hides age wonderfully and they are naturally waterproof.

Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden just announced a $2.5 billiion bail out plan for Iceland today. So do your part to help out too and rush up to Reykjavik to get a pair (or two while the exchange rate is so good). Even if you just pop through on a layover to London on Iceland Air, you can still snag these beauties at the duty-free store in Keflavik airport.

Ok, ok, I guess I will let you in on one last secret. You can catch them on her website.

Dress Up Deals

If you’re feeling uninspired this Halloween, just do what comes naturally: Work up from the shoes. Here are my picks for cheap, adorable, wear-them-in-real-life footwear (that you can still run out and get tonight).

Whether you’re a skirt and lipstick-wearing pit bull or part of the Sisterhood of the Traveling Pantsuits, make a political power play in patent gray pumps: Mossimo Viviana Pumps, Target $27.

Grab a boa, black dress and bright red lipstick. You’re a flapper. While it’s no fun to think about how the whole excessive booze, sex and costume jewelry trend ended with the Great Depression, it is a good reminder of how important a bargain can be: Mary Jane Pumps, Target, $23.

With a green dress and fairy wings, you’re Tink and these ballet flats will bring you back to life anytime: Lizard Flats, Wal-Mart, $7 (Bonus, use the site-to-store feature to see if they’re in your local Wal-Mart).

You’ll need a short skirt to show off these peep toe pumps. I’m thinking 80’s prom queen. Then wear them to every holiday party on your calendar. Just ditch the tiara first: d’Orsay Peep-Toe Pumps, Wal-Mart, $19.

An homage to Pocahontas is nothing short of historical with these fringe boots: Airwalk Ralston Fringe Boot, Payless, $35.

Get the best of both worlds, comfort and style, with a blonde wig and Hannah Montana Tee: Airwalk Toxin Argyle Skimmer, Payless, $20.

Cursing My Calves – Part 2

Jason and I had swung through Brookline for sushi. After munching down oodles of maki, he wanted to head over to JP Licks for a funky flavored waffle cone. As we dodged through the cars careening down Harvard Street, I noticed the window full of boots next door to the ice cream-store. Well aware of my mad quest for knee-high, winter walking boots that could encompass the girth of my calves, my darling husband agreed to a quick detour to Downtown Shooz.

It seemed that my options were almost endless. There were Uggs, Merrells, and Dingos galore. I picked out a svelte pair of Merrell’s while Jason and our clerk, Mel, exchanged predictions for the Packers and the Patriots.
Oh, my toes loved snuggling into the Polartec insoles of Merrell’s Plaza Peak Boot. I held my breath as I started to zip…

“Push them down.” Mel suggested as the zipper stuttered mid-muscle. “ A young girl showed me how to do this. Push it down. Zip… and now pull it up.”

Err…or maybe not. That boot looked much less appealing scrunched down around my ankle like a pair of saggy nylons but they didn’t want to budge back up.

“Too many ballet lessons as a child.” Mel offered sagely as a condolence tinged with a hint of admiration.

“Actually, that is true. She’s a professional dancer.” Jason explained as I muttered in a most un-ladylike manner.

Mel’s eyes glowed as he eagerly asked, “Oh, have you ever heard of Gerald Arpino?”

“The former Artistic Director of the Joffrey Ballet?” I replied between unprintable grunts.

“Yes,” he exclaimed as he unleashed a tale about this legendary choreographer, who came in searching for clogs for his company several years ago. Out of pure generosity, Mr. Arpino offered him free, 4th row tickets at the Wang Center in Boston to see Billboards, his rock-ballet set to a medley of Prince songs. I would have never guessed that this avid football lover and shoe salesman was such a ballet fan but his excitement over this incident was still palpable.

I am afraid that my boot buying saga is much more pathetic, though. Every pair in that pile of boxes was thankful to return to the stockroom after the awkward introduction to my cumbersome calves. But I am certain that I’ll return again to be regaled by more stories. Apparently, Mel has met many a dance celebrity. Perhaps in sandal season my search will be more successful.