StyleBakery.com | Ask The Style Chefs: Shoes Archives

Recently in Shoes Category

Q. I’m having a difficult time finding stylish, lower heeled sandals. I’m looking for something 11/2 or 2 inches (wedge or sandal) to wear with shorts or casual dresses. Everything I find in those heights look clunky with a rubber sole that should be worn in a nursing home. Can you help?

A. A low wedge is definitely your best option. Here are 9 low heeled sandals in a variety of price points that would work with casual dresses, shorts and skirts. Bring on spring!

Q. How old is too old to rock the wedge sneaker trend? I love the look and practicality and I love to dress sporty/funky but I am a 41-year-old mother of three. Too old?

A. I don’t think you’re ever too old to have fun with fashion — especially at 41 years old. Wedge sneakers are a big trend this season (note I said “trend” — meaning, there’s a good chance they will be out of style by next year) and come in a range of styles. Some look a bit younger than others, particularly those with bright colors. Provided the rest of your look is age appropriate, I don’t see why you couldn’t wear wedge sneakers if you love them. Perhaps opt for a more monochromatic option if you’re worried about dressing too young. Here are some options that won’t make you look like you raided your teenager’s closet:

wedge-snkrs.jpg

Q. Although I have embraced the skinny jean trend, I have to admit that I still can’t resist bootcuts and flares. I usually wear them with ballet flats in the spring and fall. I would love to wear flares and bootcuts in the winter but I am at a loss for what to wear on my feet. I have heard high-heeled round toe shoes but I find that impractical and hard when chasing my two-year-old and walking through the ice and snow. Do you have any suggestions?

chels-boots-180.jpg

A. My favorite styles to wear with bootcut and flared jeans and pants in cooler weather are ankle boots. Heeled styles are perfect for when you want a polished look, but a flat ankle boot, or chelsea boot, is great for when you want a casual, comfortable look. If you’re wearing in the ice and snow, you’ll want a boot with a rugged sole. And for evenings out when you’re not chasing around your two-year-old, a pump (round or pointed toe) will give you a dressier look.

Here are some casual boot options to wear with your bootcut pants with a lower, more comfortable, heel:

Q. While I know every trend I like is not for me, I am enamored with ankle boots paired with skirts (particularly pencil skirts) for work. I am 5 feet 3 inches tall and curvy, and my legs are of course short. Can I pull off this look? Also, should I look at boots that hit right at the ankle or those that come a bit higher?

A. The most flattering way for a petite curvy woman to wear ankle boots with a pencil skirt is to look for ankle boots (or booties) that dip down in the front, showing off more of your leg. Avoid any booties that come above the ankle bone. Look for slim heels, rather than chunky heels, to offer a more flattering look for your legs. Also, it’s best to pair them with skirts that hit above your knees, or right at the top of your knees, to help elongate (and visually slim) your legs. Here are some booties worth trying:

booties-petite-180.jpg

Q. I am looking for a stylish, summery, comfortable, flat work shoe that can be good for lots of walking (tours) and be good in the dirt of the garden (garden tours). Some ideas are: metallic tessa clogs, minnetonka loafers, flat espadrilles….anything come to mind that would be a winner?

A. It sounds like you need a comfortable, chic flat that can withstand a lot of walking and perhaps dirty or muddy conditions. The clogs you mentioned are certainly an option, but Minnetonka loafers and flat espadrilles are not ideal for walks in the garden as dirt will cling to the surfaces of the shoes, making it difficult to remove. Your best bet is to look for a flat or low wedge with a rubber sole that will provide comfort and a washable barrier for dirt. Boat shoes are made for outdoor living and come in a great variety of prints and colors, making them a great option for walking tours. A comfortable, yet sturdy, sandal is also an option if your job allows it. Here are some styles to help you get started with your search:

get the scoop


subscribe to our free weekly email! rss feed follow us on Twitter! Like us on Facebook! Follow us on Pinterest!

like us on facebook!

subscribe + win




email:


Around the Web:

Archives