If shoes had an enemy, it’d be dancing. We’re all painfully aware of what cutting-it-loose does to our feet, and yet we continue to damage our soles all in the name of disco. This dilemma even led to the creation of Rollasoles, as reported last week on Shoetube. But if you don’t live anywhere near London, Los Angeles or New York, blisters and scabs will forever pester you every time you bust a move.

Until recently, my motto was—like most girls—beauty is pain. That is, until I met Report Signature’s Tocai platform heel. I’d had a casual night out with Tocai roughly a month ago as she escorted me to a  going-away bash in Uptown. The highlight of my night was being yelled at by one of Chicago’s finest, “Hey, hey you! Can you run in those heels?” As his partner sped the cop car away in embarrassment, I only thought to scream back, “Only if I have to!” A memorable experience, yes, but the Tocai and I didn’t bond that night.

Report Signature's Tocai, available through eModa.com

We did however, form a lasting relationship at my friend Whitney’s wedding two weekends ago at the Chicago Botanic Garden. And it wasn’t just any relationship—it was a dance relationship. A wedding is one of those occasions where you’re expected to look fierce despite the impending dance floor that awaits you. I decided to go with a silk blue cocktail dress and took my chances by pairing it with the Tocai in coral.

I’ll admit the 5-inch heel took some getting used to, but not once during “Sweet Caroline” or “Hey Ya” did my feet cry out to the heavens begging for an amputation. And even after all the dancing, I still managed to flaunt my stuff at the after-party. If dancing were the ultimate test of a shoe’s worthiness—and we all know that it is—the Tocai would pass with flying colors.

And with that, I think dance floors should be mandatory in all shoe stores. Who’s with me?

Report Signature's Tocai, available through eModa.com

Since my write-up of Lori’s Shoes, I’ve been keeping a close eye on the L.A.-based designer Jeffrey Campbell, whose work is often on display at the aforementioned Chicago boutique. His designs are both fresh and reasonably priced, making them all the more desirable. And word on the street is Campbell’s latest design—the Mel—is not only flippin’ fantastic, but insanely comfortable, too. This rhinestone-studded platform pump puts any BeDazzler to shame, and its sexy 4″ heel will have you dominating the party without any pain. The Mel, which was recently spotted on the soles of recording artist RHEA, can be purchased at SoleStruck.com (2 sizes left) and Jildor.com.

Hot damn! That’s a fine shoe! Did I just use the word “fine?” Any shoe that can provoke the use of 90s slang is an instant keeper in my book.

Mel by Jeffrey Campbell

I came across the Dr. Scholl’s Disco while perusing the Chicago-based blog Possessionista. At first glance, I thought: “What the hell? No way this homie’s ever gonna be caught dead in some Croc wannabes—or Crocs for that matter! My momma didn’t raise no fool. Word.” Or more accurately, it went something like this: “Ewwwwwwwww!” Nevertheless, I was being a shoe hater.

Dr. Scholl's Disco in Surf Strip PU

After my gangsta fit subsided, I realized that—like most things in life—sometimes a shoe deserves a second chance. Upon closer inspection, I began to see the Disco in a new light. Sure, I would never wear these to the office or to girls’ night, but I could definitely see myself walking along Lake Michigan in these puppies. In fact, with its comfortable cushion insoles and adjustable straps, the Disco seems perfect for most tourist attractions throughout the spring and summer seasons. Just be sure to leave your fanny pack at home.

The reviews on Shoe Buy only furthered my new assessment of the Disco, which racked up an impressive 4 1/2 stars. In addition to the colors shown here, Dr. Scholl’s sells them in brown, black, beige and red. I’m partial to the Surf Strip PU myself. If you’re gonna go out on a limb, why not go all the way out there?

Be sure to stop by Possessionista’s blog for a discount code to receive an additional 10 percent off the Disco.

Dr. Scholl's Disco in Yellow Vintage Floral

May flowers will be here soon enough, but in the meantime, it’s hard to feel cute sporting rain-soaked hair and smudged make-up. I’ve become a pro at this look living in Chicago where the weather is both unpredictable and unforgiving. If you’re anything like me, the entire month of April is centered around the frizz action happening on top of your dome. But have no fear, these wacky—and absolutely adorable—rain boots are sure to draw attention south of your noggin and onto your soles.

Prepare to get eaten walking down the street in these fruit-tastic Hunters available at Zappos—perfect for the gal who loves all things shabby chic. According to reviews, these wellies are surprisingly perfect for long distances and are covered under warranty. Also available in 3 other patterns, all equally charming and girlie.

These eccentric boots by Paul Smith will having you begging for rain just so you can whip out your “crazy boots.” Don’t worry, the 1 1/4″ heel and pointed toe are just a disguise; these babies are 100 percent rubber and ready to get wet. A matching umbrella is also available for the fashionista who loves to stand out. Available at Neiman Marcus.

For those of you dying to channel the rocker within, look no further than the “Julia Stripe” by Chooka. This Washington-based company has a number of quirky styles, but this pattern just screams Jenny Humphrey from Gossip Girl. Available at the Diane’s Little Lambs store on eBay.