Boden is by far the most popular affiliate link on YLF, so there must be quite a few readers who are big fans of this British mail order label. Boden has no physical stores, but for those of us who are shopping online from the US, this is hardly an issue.

Their latest sale is offering up to 50% off, and is running from now until July 15.

The distance between the shoulders and the natural waist will vary, even among people who are the same size in other respects. If you are outside the norm and either “short waisted” or “long waisted“, it will be just a little harder to find clothes that are flattering because most clothes are designed for people with average proportions.

I find it relatively easy to judge this with my clients. I don’t apply any complicated formulas, but no doubt there is one built into my brain that has developed over years as a buyer and fashion stylist. I have noticed that other people often struggle to judge whether they are short or long waisted though. It is a frequent question on the YLF forum.

Imogen of Inside Out Style recently proposed a shortcut that appears to work quite well:

“A very quick and easy way to tell if you have a short waist is to stand up straight, and see if you can fit two hand widths under your bust to your waist (narrowest point). If you can fit more than two hand widths you have a long waist, less than two, a short waist”.

I can fit exactly two hand widths between my under bust and waistline, so I’m average according to Imogen’s method and this is in line my own assessment of being neither short or long-waisted. Over to you. How many hand widths can you fit between your under bust and waistline and is the result in line with your own assessment?

So far, I’ve singled out Clarks “Brulees”, Kenneth Cole Reaction “Cedar City wedges”, and Me Too “Nadias” as this season’s comfortable 4 to 10 hour walking shoe options. I own them all, have put them through their paces, and am thrilled with the results.

Here are 9 more comfy, tried-and-test footwear options that have been favourites amongst my clients for Spring and Summer 2009. My clients put them through their paces and they’ve passed with flying colours. Some styles will go as a far as the 12 hour mark. Unbelievable.

They may not be the most fashion forward shoes, but they’re super sweet once you add a buffed foot and great outfit. That way, you’ll increase the style quotient of the shoe while enjoying its unstoppable comfort. Mum’s on the go I hope you’re listening.

These styles come in an assortment of colours so be sure to check the different options. Also remember that you can alter shoes if they’re not perfect right off the bat. All foot beds are gloriously cushiony with straps as soft as butter. The ballet flat styles allow the addition of orthotics if you require extra arch support. If you’re still not convinced of their comfort levels, check out the Zappos review for each style. Cheers to happy feet!

Lucky’s twice yearly 50% off sale started yesterday. They are offering 50% off select items. Their jeans, belts and handbags are great casual options. If hippie chic is your thing, then don’t miss it.