FLY, FIERCE, AND FEELING GOOD

Every fashion ad’s purpose is to highlight the trendiest selections of the present season. From sophisticated handbags to flirty skirts and pretty pumps, we’re all eager to know what’s hot, and what will soon join the closet. Let’s discuss what lies beneath that pair of pretty pumps. You know, the one’s you’ll wear for six hours while you run errands, drop off the children, head in to work, host a seminar, or head out for happy hour and a night of dancing. How comfortable are your shoes? Let’s move away from the flattery of being complimented on your new, red stiletto pumps and let’s think about the health of our feet. How would your feet rate your shoe-wearing experience? How happy are your feet? Are you anxious to remove your shoes at the end of a long day, or do you mind going even further than the front door before tossing them into the corner?

 Foot pain, as well as pain in the knees, back, and shoulders, could be an indication of improperly worn shoes, or shoes that are not equipped to carry and support its wearer because it is ill-fitting, or because of its poor quality. Our feet absorb the impact of the 10,000 steps we take each day. This is consistent pressure that is forced upon extremities that we rely upon for movement. Let’s take better care of our feet by becoming more conscious of what we wear on them. As consumers and fashionistas, we must consider the health of our entire body by paying close attention to what we wear on our feet and how we wear it. How much happier and productive could you be in a pair of comfortable shoes that prevents foot and back pain and enables you to stand and interact for longer periods of time? The days of compromising fashionable shoes for comfortable ones are over. Let’s explore what it takes to wear a show-stopping shoe for as long as you’d like, and without a hint of discomfort.

Consider shoes as an investment in your body’s overall health—especially your feet and back. Our first goal is to invest in a quality shoes that offers adequate support. Here are six points for a good fit:

  • Get a good measurement! And since the size of our individual feet are not identical, be sure that you choose a size that supports the larger foot.
  • Ensure that the shape of the shoe, matches the shape of your foot. It should fit comfortably.
  • Don’t expect for it to stretch later.
  • Walk around to check that your toes are comfortable and aren’t sliding forward.
  • Look for shoes with a nicely cushioned heel, a firm sole, and arch support.
  • Wear a shoe that is appropriate for your planned activity!

The trendy, thin-heeled stiletto and the platform shoe may vary in height, but don’t fret, ensure that it is the appropriate fit and properly suits your foot’s arch and you’re set to go. For pumps, never buy these shoes too small to avoid ankle and toe pain. For height and a little added support, secure the straps on a cone heel sandal and you’re ready to impress! Mary Janes are youthful, fun, and snug, and can be paired with summer dresses or denim and blouses. As with ankle strap and T-strap-style sandals, be sure that the straps fit comfortably across your foot. A tight strap may cause pain and discomfort; a loose strap can easily cause its wearer to trip and fall. Toes should rest comfortably in open toe and peep toe shoes, and should not consistently rub against the material or create indentation marks and redness on your skin. The D’Orsay shoe is perfect for showing a little skin within a fashionable shell. Check the arch of this shoe style and ensure that there is adequate support and cushioning for a day of wear. Wedge heels can be worn with style and ease as long as the shape of the shoe supports your foot’s arch.

Feel good in your shoes! Refuse to compromise fashion for comfort any longer. Finding the shoe that fits and supports you properly can also mean finding the shoe that’s fun and flirty as well.