Hey, you’ve got the cute pedicure, so why would you cover it up with scruffy, boring shoes?
Shoes are more than a necessity…they’re the ultimate accessory! During the summer, your footwear options are at their peak, and the right pair can knock your look out of the ballpark. While a sweet pair can put the finishing touches on your outfit, a one-of-a-kind pair can actually be the focus of your outfit and make a statement all its own. But before you sprint to the mall to stock up on summer sandals, know this: some styles sizzle while others fizzle. So, before you go, check out my wish list and dis-list:
Shoes that Sizzle
Switch em’ up
Summer sandals are extremely versatile and fun to wear. Some are sleek and stylish while others are comfortable and casual. That’s the beauty of sandals, you can use them rock any look! In fact, I’ve even seen sandals with straps that you can switch out to match your outfit! With just one zip of the velcro, you create an entirely different look. Oh, I’m drooling. Plus, you can keep wearing these sandals in the early fall with straps that have deeper color tones. Jackpot!
Switch Flops: Change the strap to match your outfit!
Those feathers are fly
Another stunning trend this year is sandals with feather accessories. They draw lots of attention to your feet, so be sure to get a great pedicure. You will create a flirty and feminine look that would make even Pocahontas green with envy!
Aldo Cordes Flats
Lovely and leggy
Pssst. Did you know that sandals with even a slight heel will make your legs look longer? Heels majorly elongate the legs and make you appear slimmer. Just make sure you get a pair that you can actually walk in. I’m a fan of the kitten heel. So cute, (and still walkable). Viva la illusion!
SM Women’s Sheri Sandal
Pretty Platforms
This smashing style has made its way back from the 70’s, and I, for one, couldn’t be more pleased. Platforms look amazing with shorts, skirts, and even jeans. Those with a wedge are an especially youthful, fun look that any girl can pull off. Another plus: platforms add a lot of height without putting pressure on the balls of your feet, so they’re not only flattering but also easy to wear.
Two Lips Sandy Wedge Sandal
Backless platforms make the legs look especially slender and fit. You will feel ultra classy and feminine when you sport this high-flying style of shoe!
Guess Happi
Sky-High Heels
High-heels are a perfect look for summer nights and can dress up some of your more casual outfits. Heels tend to make your legs look longer naturally and make your outfit totally stylish while doing so. And matching the color of your heel to that of the bottom part of your outfit (skirt, pants etc.) really adds oomph to your look! I adore these floral heels. I’d never take them off!
Mojo Moxy Poppy Pump
Shoes that Fizzle
Shoes that make you look shorter
If you have a petite build, stay away from looks that make your legs look short. Shoes with ankle straps divide the leg and the foot which is not always flattering. Too many straps can make legs appear heavier and cut up, so leave those styles at the mall.
Uncomfortable shoes
Although we girls make sacrifices for style, it’s also important to be sensible. Before you purchase a pair of shoes, walk around in them to make sure they fit. And, be honest with yourself. No matter how gorgeous they are, the pain isn’t worth the gain. Even Cinderella wouldn’t wear her glass slipper unless it fit just right. The only girl able to pull off this look is the fabulous Lady Gaga!
UGH! My feet ache just looking at these shoes! Sure, they’re unique, but nearly impossible to walk in. Keep this pair in the shoe museum, please!
Okay, let’s recap. Platforms, heels, and cute sandals are “must have” items for summer. They add pizzazz to sundresses, cropped pants and shorts. Choose colors that pop to accessorize your outfit or neutral colors to create a sleek and slimming look. Just make sure to stay away from styles that dwarf your legs or kill your feet. You can look fabulous but skip the blistas, sistas. Happy styling!
Photo 1 by: ghirson
