This week’s top picks are casual, comfortable, and versatile. The shoes and bottoms can be ideal items to wear and pack for travel. It hasn’t been as much of a skirt season as I had hoped, but there’s a very good assortment of pants and jeans. That said, skirts (and dresses) are most prevalent in Summer collections, and the season is far from over.
1. Vionic Uptown Hybrid Loafer
The Vionic Uptown Hybrid Loafer is a repeat style with excellent reviews. Dressier than a sneaker, and more relaxed than a classic loafer. Clients rave about the shoe. It runs bigger and wider, so you might need to size down half a size. It has supportive, cushioning, and thick footbeds, which are removable so you can replace them with orthotics. Lots of colours to choose from. You’ll also find them on Zappos, T.J. Maxx and the Nordstrom Rack at bargain prices.
Interestingly, if your heels slip out of the back in one or both loafers, try half a size down. Or, fit half an insole (that is the shape of the ball of the foot) in the FRONT of the loafer under the footbed. The altered fit pushes the foot back into the shoes so that your heels don’t slip out of them. It’s counter-intuitive, and works quite well.
2. Vionic Uptown Sneaker
The Vionic Uptown Sneaker looks nicer on the foot in person, and is VERY lightweight. It has a practical gum sole toe that is robust and easy to clean. Signature to the brand, it has the same supportive, cushioning, and thick footbed, which is removable so you can replace it with orthotics. A little like walking on clouds.
3. Wit & Wisdom Absolution Utility
Both styles of utility bottoms are different from the norm because of their interesting pocket placements, colours, and waist “absolution” detailing. Many present more like casual pants than jeans despite the descriptions. Some of the styles are in a subtle stripe and resemble a false plain. The waistbands of the bottoms are structured, AND have elastic on the inside for extra comfort and forgiveness. The waists mould to the body perfectly, and do not stretch out. The regular sizes work well for petites, and one of the styles comes in petite sizes. Might need to size down.
