Today is Appreciate Your Extra Comfortable Shoes Day on YLF.
My low-volume feet need cushioning footbeds, very soft leather, a heel height between 0.5 to 1.5 inches, a sturdy and flexible sole, a block heel, adequate support, a silhouette that doesn’t rub my bony feet, and a secure fit. I wear a regular width but a narrow width in sandals. I have small feet for my 5′ 6″ height. I wear a US6.5, a UK4 or Euro 36.5. A US6 often fits perfectly apart from being too short in the length because I have long toes. All this to say that I’m extremely grateful when I find fashionable footwear that goes the distance because I’m on my feet a lot.
Casual footwear that ticks all the boxes is easier to find than dressier options, so my first shout-out goes to these four pairs of darlings. I wore them while I was helping clients preselect for the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale a few weeks ago. I wore each pair twice. I was on my feet, running around up and down stairs and in and out of dressing rooms without a break, for up to fourteen hours a day. Most of the Nordstrom sales assistants wore fashion sneakers, but I don’t wear sneakers when I work with clients.
You might understand why I duplicated the Franco Sarto Jolette Penny Loafer. So glad I did. I tried to duplicate the Calvin Klein Georgettes but they’re sold out in my size. Although pricier to duplicate, I’m thinking hard about getting the Paul Green Margo Cross Strap Flat in gold.
Next are two pairs of smart casual booties that have travelled the world with me, covering lots of ground without a hint of discomfort. My Prada riding boots and Calvin Klein Mod booties are dressier than sneakers and casual boots, making me feel polished and pulled together with extremely happy feet. I’m already on my second pair of white Calvin Klein booties (thrilled to have duplicated them at the time,) but the Pradas were pricey to duplicate. I’m trying to find a similar pair because I’ve worn them into the ground.
The last shout-out goes to my fashion sneakers. I’m not a sneaker gal, because I find most sneakers uncomfortable, too athletic-looking, and too wide. But I persevered and eventually found four pairs that are great workhorses. The Converse hi-tops, although wide, work well with thick socks and insoles. They are perfect for rain, ice and lighter snow. I wore them in our Seattle Winter Wonderland and to travel to Europe with in January where I was on my feet each day walking in ice and snow. The white Frye Ivy Low Laces take me on daily Spring and Summer walks with our Yorkie Sam. I duplicated them in pink for very casual days when I’m out and about, and for Summer travel. Heavenly comfort.
Over to you. Let’s hear about the shoes you appreciate for going the distance, in the comments section and in the forum. I hope to see more than sneakers!
