Recently in Shoes Category

Q. I just bought these fabulous strappy shoes. As the weather gets cooler, I would like to keep wearing them… I have seen similar shoes in catalogs with models wearing them with tights. Can I wear them with jeans or slacks barefoot? When is it appropriate to wear footless tights?

A. You most definitely can wear these shoes with tights in cool weather. As for going barefoot and wearing them with jeans, it depends on the weather where you live and how comfortable you will be. The latest J Crew catalog is filled with sandals and pants or jeans worn without hosiery (see image below). In real life, though, it’s easier to get away with the barefoot look when you are getting dressed up for an evening out than for daily running around or dressing for the office. As for footless tights or leggings, the same rules apply as going barefoot.

Our advice? If you’re not entirely comfortable, it’s much safer to wear tights.

Q. I am writing on behalf of the women of Northern Climes who want a winter boot that really is warm and weatherproof and also stylish. No tall heels or flat slick soles because we walk on icy sidewalks and no thin leather because it isn’t warm enough when you also have to wade through the snow that hasn’t been shoveled or plowed. There are great winter clothes and beautiful coats, but where are the functional boots that aren’t ugly? I hate carrying office shoes while I wear Sorrell’s to commute—it’s the winter equivalent of tennis shoes with business attire. I’ve considered some interesting quilted boots from Norway, but surely someone here must have a solution.

A. You’re right, finding a pair of stylish snow boots can be a challenge. Aquatalia makes some beautiful weatherproof shoes, many of them with warm linings. Below are some options that fit the bill: chic, warm and waterproof. Several of the styles can be worn with your work attire, though we still suggest you switch to a pair of indoor shoes when you get to the office instead of wearing your slushy winter boots all day.

Q. What are the rules for wearing black opaque tights with colored shoes? I keep seeing pictures of models with this combination, but what about in real life? I have a pair of royal blue patent peep toe wedges I’d love to wear, which I think I can get by with, and also a pair of tan peep toe heels with an ankle strap, is the tan too much of a stretch?

A. Opaque tights are a great way to wear peep toe styles in cooler weather. You can wear dark tights with dark shoes for a classic, leg elongating look, or opt for contrasting colors for a fun, modern look. Colorful tights paired with dark shoes or dark tights paired with colored shoes (like your blue patent wedges) add style to any outfit. For your tan peep toes, experiment with colors other than black, like gray (shown below) or cranberry. Textured tights can add another layer of interest to your look.

Q. I have a dilemma. I’ve been searching for riding boots for months! I just can’t seem to find a pair that hits below my knees. They’re all too tall. Are there any options for petite women with normal-sized calves?

A. Several of us here share your plight - many riding boots are simply too tall for women who are 5’4” and under. Boots that hit at or above the knee can ruin the proportion of your legs, making them look even shorter. Your best bet is to seek out boots that have a 14” shaft or smaller (the shaft is the part of the boot that covers the leg, measured along the inside seam of the boot). Or better yet, measure your leg so you know exactly what shaft height you need before you begin your search. To measure: measure the height of the inside of your leg, starting at your instep to below your knee.

We sought out some chic options for you that are 14” or shorter, good luck!

Q. I am going to wear a tea-length black dress to a 6:00 p.m. wedding reception that calls for cocktail attire. I’m only 5’3” and don’t want to “shorten” the look of my legs. This being the case, would you advise not wearing a t-strap shoe (or even a shoe with a thin ankle strap)? Would a slip-on shoe be better?

A. Tea length dresses tend to hit somewhere between your knee and your ankle, or mid-calf. Since you are petite, a t-strap or ankle strap shoe will likely shorten the look of your legs. To make your legs look as long as possible, opt for a strappy shoe or pump that covers as little of the top of your foot as possible.